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Plugging directly into the generator does not require a transfer switch. This is nonsense.
Off course you can plug an appliance directly into a generator. That is NOT what I was referring to! Many people wire the generator into the electric panel-without a transfer switch that is a big safety issue! By the way it is not always convenient to plug things into a generator as some things (like well pumps) are typically hard wired.
I was a victim of the tornado in HS a few years ago. I was without power for a few days. I used a Honda 4k generator that I borrowed from the inlaws and a few extension cords for my fridge and a light or two at night. I did look at a whole house NG system a bit afterwords, but I really don't see the value, it's a lot of money, to get a system that can take load from the AC etc and they require maintenance.
But if I did end up getting something it would be a 4-5k inverter generator and a patch panel so I could run just about everything but the AC.
I have the same generator and unfortunately it is pretty loud.
I identified which circuits I would like to keep power to which include my gas logs (fan), Kitchen outlets and fridge. My office, Living room outlets and my bedroom outlets.
I then got a permit and wired in a 6 channel transfer switch. Now my generator connects to it with a single Nema 3 phase plug, I start the generator then switch over one channel at a time. This is a complete separate unit from my breaker box. I got load indicators and was surprised that with everything running my generator has no problem.
I also purchased a portable AC unit that can provide AC or Heat to our bedroom if needed.
If I was to do it again I would go Propane power full house one or convert my Storm Series to Propane and put an auto start, auto transfer switch on.
You will find that now that you have a generator you will probably never loose power! It is kind of fun to have all you lights on, at your house when the neighborhood is completely dark :-P
Now my generator connects to it with a single Nema 3 phase plug, I start the generator then switch over one channel at a time.
I assume you mean "3-prong NEMA plug" ? While 100-amp, 3-phase service is available for houses in Mexico, very few US homes have 3-phase service.
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