Having Home backup power generator for your home is a great use. The first consideration is what do you want to run with your generator when it is needed. This will help you choose the appropriate size and type of backup generator for your needs . For help with this, see our articles “How much power do I need?”, “Which wattage number do I use?”, and “Which Mech Marvels Generator type is the right one for me?”.

Once you have determined your generator of choice, it is time to consider how to use it safely and connect it to your home.

For safe operation the generator needs to be located away from building openings such as doors and windows, and no, it is not safe to run one in your garage even with the garage door open. Carbon monoxide gas is a byproduct of combustion and is extremely poisonous, and it can collect quickly in enclosed spaces. The generator should also be properly grounded using the dedicated grounding lug on the front panel.

For making connections, the simplest way to do this is using extension cords to the individual appliances. This is a great choice for spot lighting, or a few appliances, but can be limited for larger electrical loads and “built in” appliances or devices. Do not “back feed” your home through an electrical outlet. This is extremely dangerous and presents a huge potential risk for fire or electrocution, both to you and those servicing your local electrical grid.

With a larger generator like our MM9350 series（9000W Dual Fuel Portable Generator）, you may want to consider wiring in a dedicated outlet for your home. This will allow you to take advantage of the generator's 240VAC output and run hardwired items like your house lights, specific outlets, sump pumps, and more. Depending upon the type and electrical demand of your major appliances, you may be able to run some of those as well. Options for this setup include dedicated transfer switches/panels, and interlocks. Devices such as transfer switches and interlocks are all designed to prevent both grid and generator power from being in place at the same time. For this type of installation, you will need to consult with a local electrician, as installation requirements vary by location.

Once you have the proper dedicated wiring in place, you would activate the interlock or transfer switch/panel, turn off the individual breakers, wheel the generator out and into its safe location, and make the connection between the generator and dedicated house outlet. Once this is done, you would fuel up and start the generator, allow it to warm up for a few minutes, and go back inside and add the electrical loads one at a time by turning the individual breakers on, starting with the greatest load first. When power is restored, simply reverse the process, shut down the generator, and switch back to the grid!