The IOTA transfer switch is designed to provide automatic power selection between shore power and the generator. If your motor home is equipped with an IOTA transfer switch, it is located in a labeled box near the shore power cord, or towards the center of the chassis inside a bay compartment. A wiring diagram is generally displayed on the inside of the transfer switch box cover. This transfer switch should be kept free of moisture. Avoid spraying the box with water or cleaning agents. Use a dry cloth to clean the transfer switch box.

When plugging the motor home into shore power the IOTA transfer switch will sound an audible click to signal the relay has engaged. There will be a short delay of 20-30 seconds as the circuit travels through a time delay board. This is a quick test to assure the transfer switch is operational. Another way to test the transfer switch is to unplug the shore cord and start the generator. There should be a 20-30 second delay that allows the generator a brief warm up period.

The IOTA transfer switch has a removable plastic cover. Press down on the box and pry the cover from the little locks. Inspect the connections in the transfer switch once each year. Vibration from road travel may loosen a connector. Copper wiring should be pushed all the way under the lug for a good connection. Torque lugs to 49-inch lbs. Use caution when working around the transfer switch. Unplug shore power and turn off the generator and disable Auto Gen Start before undertaking maintenance or repair of the transfer switch.

Low voltage can be harmful to sensitive appliances. Low voltage is the result of insufficient shore power (brownout). Protect electrical components during low voltage conditions by running the generator until shore connections return to full power. Contactor based transfer switches are also affected by low voltage. If the voltage level drops low enough the contactor points will ‘chatter.’ Sustained contact chattering can cause transfer switch damage. Switches that are damaged by chattering will need to be replaced.

A voltage spike may cause the time delay module to fail. To inspect the time delay module, seek the services of a technician knowledgeable in 120 Volt AC power. Diagnosing the problem will require removing the cover at the transfer switch with the power on to examine a Green LED light located on the circuit board inside the transfer switch. If the light is not lit, the circuit board may need to be replaced.

It is never advised to start or stop the generator under a load. To prolong the life of the IOTA transfer switch turn off the air conditioner and all other appliances and electrical loads before plugging or unplugging shore power and engaging the generator.