3000W Chinese Gensets Info.

toprudder wrote:

walkeraw wrote:
I am a little confused in regard to transfer switches. I'm looking at some of the "GenTran" types (6 circuit, individual switches for utility/generator) as others on here have mentioned. Supposedly, you should not connect a larger generator to the transfer switch (thereby exceeding the switch ratings??). I.E. Don't connect a 7000w generator to a 3750w rated transfer switch without having the generator "breakered" for 3750w. I don't understand why. Doesn't the switch itself limit the power (amperage) via its circuit breakers (and associated ratings of the internal hardware and wire gauge)? It appears to me the components are the same in number and ratings (with maybe the gauge of wires being the exception?). I guess I need a "Transfer Switch for Dummies Guide"!
Bottom line is that I would like to have the ability to hook up a larger generator and not have to worry about the transfer switch (or upgrade it to a larger capacity).

Apparently some of the components used in the smaller transfer switches are not rated for the higher capacity. Just taking a quick look at the gen-tran website, I found the installation manual and found the schematic for one of the transfer switches. They have CTs (current transformers) connected to watt meters on the front panel, which helps determine to loads in use. I suspect these may be part of the limiting factor. (I suspect these are not true watt meters, as they appear to only give current readings.)

I also saw in the information for one of the transfer switches this statement: "All wires, conduit, fittings and wire connectors included." Obviously, these must be sized for the capability of the power source.

The price for a 7500w rated, 6 circuit system is not much more than the 3750w system, $316 vs $274.

Bob R.

I plan on getting a small capacity transfer switch to handle only a few essential circuits in the house. I do not need a large capacity switch. The 4000/3500 Champion would be large enough to satisfy the power needs of the devices on the transfer switch/circuits. I do not foresee these devices/circuits power requirements changing in the future. If my 4000/3500 Champion dies/burns up/whatever, I would think I should be able to replace it with a larger generator (i.e. 4.5k, 5k, or 7.5k) without having to also replace the transfer switch. Just because a generator has the ability to provide extra power doesn't mean that the extra power will be used. I still don't understand how this can cause problems. Is this just a marketing ploy to sell more transfer switches or is it that I cannot see the forest for the trees?