The Dangers Of RV Transfer Switch Failure And How To Avoid Fires

Having fun in an RV is a great way to enjoy your vacation. However, your trip will be ruined if your transfer switch causes a fire. While this risk is minimal, it is still essential to understand why it occurs and how to avoid it.

Transfer Switch Failure Can Lead To Fires

A transfer switch is an electrical item that helps kick on a backup generator when power fails. These switches are standard in a variety of industrial settings but also appear in standard RV models. Unfortunately, a failure in this switch has led to electrical fires that can devastate an RV. That's because the switch is hit with a high level of electricity to cause it to turn on properly. 

This situation can seem scary to most RV owners, but it is easy to avoid. A transfer switch is an entirely safe item that is only a danger when it isn't properly maintained. The same is true of any electrical issue. That's why it is essential to understand the causes of transfer switch failure and to take steps to prevent it from occurring.

What Causes These Failures?

A transfer switch is like any electrical item in your RV. It is susceptible to wear-and-tear that can make it run poorly. For example, it is possible that dust and dirt could ignite in the switch and cause a fire. Shorts produced by jiggled or loosened wires could also lead to some forms of transfer switch failure. While not common, they can still happen. 

Avoiding this situation requires regularly inspecting and managing the area around the transfer switch. For example, the switch must be cleaned of all dust and dirt regularly. More importantly, it is essential to test the switch periodically to make sure that it won't fail and cause a fire when you need it.

Avoiding This Risk

There are several steps that an RV owner can take to ensure that their transfer switch doesn't fail and lead to a fire. The first is to perform a test to ensure that the transfer switch is working correctly. This test requires simulating a complete power failure and seeing if the backup generator kicks on with the transfer switch. Make sure to watch the switch while holding a fire extinguisher to ensure no fires occur. 

If the switch fails or struggles to turn on, it might be time for a new one. There are several ways to install a new one. Some RV owners may be skilled enough as amateur electricians to do it on their own. This act will save them the installation fee that will take up most of the cost of switch replacement. However, it is easier to hire somebody to do it for you. 

By following these guidelines, you can avoid a transfer switch failure in your RV and keep it safe from fires. While it might cost a little more than you'd like to replace a transfer switch, it is an essential task for keeping your RV running smoothly. For more information, contact companies like Enercon  Engineering Inc.

Share