Hard-wired Backup Generator Sizing

For more advanced electrical backup, you can have a 5,000-6,000-watt portable generator wired into your homes' electrical panel. This generator may run the majority of your electrical appliances including the well-pump, furnace, water heater and most small appliances, just not all at the same time. A certified electrician should install an "interlock" switch that disconnects your house from the grid and connects a circuit to your generator with one lever. If you don't even want to notice a power outage, set up a dedicated backup propane, LPG or diesel generator hardwired into your electrical panel with an automatic transfer switch. It will automatically start up and shut down when needed. You MUST put the generator outside in a well-ventilated area.