A transfer switch allows you to power any of those—and skip the extension cords. Plan on a cost of $500 to $1,500 for the switch, including installation, which usually takes less than a day.

Heath installs a generator transfer switch; Mark fixes a faulty brick lintel repair. Heath Eastman assists a homeowner who wants to hook up a generator to their home by installing a transfer ...

A transfer switch is like a mini circuit breaker panel that allows you to draw electricity from your generator instead of from the power company.

If recent storms have you thinking about emergency backup power for your home, there are a lot of options to consider beyond extension cords plugged into a portable generator outside.

Installing a generator "legally" can increase the resale value of your home. Consumer Reports states that in some cases, your home value can increase by 3 to 5%. A 2014 report by Remodeling ...