A transfer switch failure can leave you in the dark. Modern Reliance Controls transfer switches are designed with sensitive electronics that are susceptible to damage that can cause the switch to fail. When your Reliance transfer switch doesn't work the way it was designed, apply the right solution to correct the problem. Here are some Reliance transfer switch troubleshooting suggestions for the most common issues.
Reliance Controls Transfer Switch Troubleshooting Guide
The transfer switch lets the inboard generator run as long as there is no supply of power. This switch helps you by saving generator energy and cuts down a lot of work. Check out details on how to troubleshoot your Reliance transfer switch.
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Tripped Circuit Breakers
Power surges can trip the circuit breaker that provides power to the transfer switch. It is the most common problem and also one of the first things that you should check before examining other problems of a transfer switch. If you are unable to do, you can take the help of an electrician.
Transient Voltage
In an automatic transfer switch, the transient voltage affects the sensitive components. As the voltage flows into the circuit board, it may cause damage to the control boards that will prevent the correct operation. The best way to protect a transfer switch from transient voltage hazards or problems is to ensure the proper functioning of the TVSP (transient voltage surge protector). You can refer to the manual to fix transient voltage issues.
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Damaged Wires
Automatic transfer switch controllers use a standard two-wire start system. When power is interrupted in your work area, there is a relay that is held open by utility power closes, allowing these two wires to come together and cause the generator to start. When you connect these wires wrongly or wires got damage, they will not make these wires connection.
Bad Controller
Generally, a controller sends an appropriate signal to the generator when there is power shortage. However, a bad controller can't send the correct signals to your generator when you are not having power. Suspect the cause for this bad controller and repair or reprogram it. If the repairing or reprogramming is done and still facing a problem, you need to replace the controller.
Damaged Solenoids
Sometimes solenoids will run too fast that results in heat buildup on it. This heat leads to burnout and failure. Also, caused for fail during maintenance or through the buildup of dirt and grime within the generator.
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Failure to Transfer to Utility
If your transfer switch fails to transfer to the utility, it may due to the service disconnect breaker is open or the voltage is unacceptable. So, you have to check whether it is open or not. If it is opened, you need to restart the service disconnect breaker or wait until the voltage reaches the acceptable levels.
Generator Continues to Operate after Transfer Back to utility Power
In the engine cool-down period, this situation may occur. To avoid this issue, it's better to continue to run the generator after the load has been transferred back to utility power to allow the engine temperatures to settle back to normal levels. The engine cool-down period is typically programmed to be between 10 to 30 minutes at which time the generator will shut down and be ready for another utility outage.
Unit does not engage shore contactor when shore power is present after 3 to 4 seconds
Check the wiring from the pedestal to the input terminals of the transfer switch. If the switch's terminals are wired incorrectly, it has a protective feature to prevent the switch from engaging the contactor under a reverse polarity condition. Then, turn off the circuit and unplug the unit from the shore pedestal and correct the input wiring.
Final Words
We hope this Reliance transfer switch troubleshooting guide helps you to fix the common issues. If you are not able to troubleshoot the problems yourself, you can take the help of a professional or electrician. Moreover, you can get some more suggestions to fix your Reliance Controls transfer switch common problems in the owner’s manual. The most important thing is that you have to know the basic functionalities and working operation that yields you find out the cause for your transfer switch issue.
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