How to Connect a Portable Generator to a Home

Buying an emergency generator is a great first step in protecting your family from power failure. But even the most prepared homeowner cannot predict the next power outage.

There are two ways to connect a portable gas generator to a home: plugging in each appliance with individual cords or powering a circuit panel using a transfer switch.

Cords vs. Power Transfer Systems

During storm season, the biggest question we get is: "What's the difference between extension cords, generator cords, and using a switch?"

The answer is quite simple. It all comes down to convenience and safety. Let's break down both types and how they're used.

Connecting a Portable Generator to a House

No matter what type of generator you have, always consult the owner's manual for detailed instructions and safety guidelines prior to operation. Under no circumstances should you plug a generator into a wall socket, known as backfeeding. If you go the transfer switch route, we recommend professional installation.

Extension and Generator Cords

1. Follow the generator pre-start checklist.
2. Move the generator outside (minimum 10 ft. away from openings).
3. Connect the generator to indoor appliances in one of the following ways: (1) Run one generator cord from the generator and connect multiple appliances. (2) Run several extension cords from outside to connect to appliances.
4. Start the Generator

Transfer Switches

1. Connect the generator to the manual transfer switch using a generator cord.
2. Start the generator outside.
3. Flip the main breakers in the transfer switch from "Line" to "Generator" power.
4. One at a time, turn on the circuits you want to power.

How Should I Connect My Generator?

Extension Cords

The most affordable way to connect your generator is by using extension cords. However, they don't allow you to use the full power of a large generator.

Additionally, extension cords are time-consuming and potentially hazardous to use, especially during a blackout in a heavy storm. In fact, using the wrong gauge, length, or a worn-out wire can be outright deadly, posing shock and fire hazards.

But if you're using an inverter and you only need to power a couple of appliances like a refrigerator and some lights, a proper extension cord will do the job.

Generator Cords

If you're using a mid-sized generator and are comfortable plugging in appliances during a storm but still want to use cords, your best bet is to invest in a generator cord.

You simply plug the generator cord into the 20- or 30-amp outlet on your generator. The opposite end splits into several household outlets, where you can start connecting additional extension cords safely indoors.

Power Transfer Systems

The best option in terms of power, safety, and convenience when connecting a large portable generator is a power transfer system. These systems contain everything you need to hook up your generator to your house.

More importantly, power transfer systems energize entire circuits instead of appliances. They can power hard-wired appliances like air conditioners, furnaces, security systems, and lights. The illustration below depicts a typical power transfer system setup in a garage.

Read our guide on connecting manual transfer switches for more details.

Natural Gas Generator Connection

Although we've discussed electrical hookup options, if you have a tri-fuel generator, you may want to connect it to your home's natural gas line as well.

To accomplish this, you will need a professional plumber to adapt your home's natural gas line to accommodate the new connection. This often involves installing a separate branch for the generator immediately after the gas meter. This is similar to connecting a gas barbecue grill to your home.

Once your natural gas line is adapted, all you need to do is connect the generator. This is done using a natural gas hose, which comes included with many tri-fuel generators.

Follow these steps when connecting your generator to your natural gas line:

1. Ensure the generator is off and cool.
2. Verify that the gas is turned off at the natural gas supply line.
3. Straighten the natural gas hose to prevent kinks.
4. Thread the hose to the natural gas supply line. Be careful not to cross-thread it.
5. Connect the natural gas hose to the generator. Many hoses come with a quick-connect collar for faster connections.
6. Set your generator's fuel source to natural gas.
7. Turn the gas on at the supply line and start your generator.
8. Once properly installed, the natural gas fuel option is the most hassle-free way to power your portable generator.

Find the Right Generator Setup for Your Home

Ready to keep your home powered during the next outage? Shop our selection of portable generators, transfer switches, and generator accessories to find the right solution for your needs.