Originally Posted by
mfogt
I have a generator set-up that is quite simple and effective. I use a simple Craftsman 4200Watt and it powers all the things I need(Lights, fridge, freezer, TV, but no A/C). My house is approx 3000sq. ft. I could get a bigger one if that is ever a need, but the once or twice a year I use it, works well. My neighbors are always jealous.
A truly simple way to run a generator is to create a double male power cord and backfeed your system. This is done by simply plugging it into one of your existing power outlets. You will have to play with what power outlet is the best as depending on your house wiring it will feed to certain areas of your house. What the Electrical company does not like about this is that you could be backfeeding power to the lines on the street if you do not turn off your main. That is the key function of the Transfer Switch to prevent this from happening.
KEY SAFETY ITEM AND RESPONSIBILITY IS TO TURN OFF YOUR MAIN POWER SWITCH BEFORE DOING THIS AND NO BACKFEED CAN OCCUR TO THE STREET AND ANYONE WORKING ON THEM.
You will then need to turn it back on after disconnecting your Generator and City Power is restored(Watching for my neighbors lights to finally turn back on is my indicator!).
What I did to make it a little better, is I had a 220 "Welder" Plug put in my garage so that I can backfeed 220 to my system and everything connected will run. Where as if you only backfeed 110 through a Power Outlet at most half of your Circuits will be powered.
Works great and was cheap. I do like the whole house General systems that are automatic and run on Natural Gas, but we don't lose power often or long enough to justify.
Matt