[throw0101a]

> But, this is all new and any advice would be greatly appreciated.

This video shows the three main ways to legally / safely connect a generator:

* https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKwBBesUKA8

Method 1 is the simplest and involves running an extension cord to the appliance(s) you want powered; or a power bar if you want multiple.

Method 3 is the most expensive, and it involves buying a very big generator to power the whole house, making sure there is a mechanism that prevents power back-feeding into the grid.

Method 2 is probably what you may want to look into. You purchase a small/medium generator as well as an electrical sub-panel. You then re-wire any appliances to the sub-panel. When the power goes out, you change the sub-panel's incoming feed from the main panel to the generator, which will then power your pre-selected appliances.

A potato-quality video illustrating Method 2:

* https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkbBt8hv8mQ

[mikestew]

Method 1 is the simplest and involves running an extension cord to the appliance(s) you want powered; or a power bar if you want multiple.

Should one take this route, and you want to run some high-wattage stuff like a refrigerator, microwave, or space heater, remember to use the thickest cord you can find if it runs any length. Harbor Freight will sell you 50' of 12 gauge extension cord for cheap. Use that thin little thing you use to plug the shop light into, and it'll get warm fast.