To avoid dangerous back-feeding of electricity into utility systems, have a qualified, licensed electrician install a double-pole, double-throw transfer switch between the generator and utility power.
2 Frequently powered: refrigerator, pumps (well, sump, septic), furnace, some lights, stove.
3 Permanent generators use propane or natural gas, portable use gasoline. Permanent models offer significantly longer operating times.
Image of portable generator provided by SafeElectricity.org
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