Q&A for How to Connect a Portable Generator to a House

As long as you do not exceed the power rating of the generator or its specific outlet, expanding the number of devices this way is fine. Keep in mind that increasing the number of devices also increases the chance that an electrical fault could occur, necessitating a protection device of some kind. Many generators include protection, but a power strip with additional protection may be wise. You also need to be sure that the cabling and connectors used are designed to handle the amount of current that would flow when all of the devices are on.

Do not do this! Although this makes logical sense, the issue is that there will be no safe way to disconnect the power in an emergency if (when) someone is being electrocuted. Also, there will be no fail-safe, in the event of an electrical short-circuit, and this will pose a serious fire hazard. Having any "double-male" power cord is dangerous and would be illegal to plug in just about anywhere that has safety rules.

Since you are instructed to shut off the main breaker when you use the generator, nothing will happen. If you install a transfer switch it is impossible for the generator and the main electrical power to both feed the system at the same time, if wired correctly.

By design, the switch over breaker connected to the generator (and - importantly - in the Off position) will not allow mains power to flow towards the generator circuit from the mains. Thus, the mains switch can be energized or not, it makes no difference. Importantly: Only switch the generator breaker on After the mains breaker has been switched off and switch the generator breaker off Before energizing the mains breaker.

As long as your supply from the MH is able to be unplugged from the Utility Company grid and rerouted to your generator, yes.

Plug into the 240. Assuming you have the circuitry in your breaker box set up correctly, this will energize both sides.

Yes, you may run suitable extension cords for temporarily connecting your portable generator to a specific appliance in the house, such as a refrigerator or a floor lamp.

You could, but it is not safe. Although this makes logical sense, the issue is that there will be no safe way to disconnect the power in an emergency if someone is being electrocuted. Also, there will be no fail-safe, in the event of an electrical short-circuit, and this will pose a serious fire hazard.

The only problem with this is that there is no sure way to be certain the main breaker is off before the generator power is on. A suitable transfer switch can solve this issue. In that case, then yes, with the generator powering the house, you can select which circuits receive power by using the main panel circuit breakers.

If you have called the utility company to report the power outage, they will call back when power is restored.

Yes, if you first install a proper transfer switch at the meter base. This will allow you to a place to connect the power from the generator while simultaneously disconnecting the main supply from the meter.

Absolutely not! This is quite dangerous.

You can't do this legally. There are safety rules about hooking "directly" to the power bus from a generator.

Yes. Often an identical model can be run in parallel to give twice the power. A bespoke cable would be required.

Always a good idea to install a house surge protection at the box as a first line of defense.

Yes, you can, provided the manual says this is okay. You must locate the portable generator safely outside and use one for each appliance you are powering.

You would need an electrician to determine this. There is a certain way to hook up 240 and it will need a special breaker for 220 to match your breaker panel.

Nothing, as long as you use a proper interlock designed for your specific breaker box.

The best way to find out would be to contact your local Department of Labor and Industries, Planning Department, or Power Company to learn whether or not this is legal in your area. They may also provide personalized advice on whether this is possible/how best it can be done. That way, you get the safest, legal answer.

Consult your generator's manual or contact the company that makes it directly to learn what wiring method is preferred for your specific make and model. That way, you can rest easy knowing you've selected the safest option.

Appliances and lighting should only be connected to your transfer switch or generator once the generator is up and running. Once that's been done, determine which appliances you can't live without, like the fridge, fans, etc., and check their wattage. If the total amount is in the capacity of power the generator can supply, you're all set to go.