[Evans, Marv]

I installed my Generac 10Kw (12.5Kw Peak) gasoline generator as a back up. I used it simply because I have had it for years & thought I should use it for something. It's noisy as hell, but I built an outside, weatherproof cabinet with large vents for air circulation, sound insulation and plumbed in an exhaust with a motorcycle muffler. That cut down on the noise immensely. The transfer panel handles 7.2Kw, which powers the refrigerator, freezer, some lights, and a few other circuits. The circuits actually use much less (less than half max) than the rated power of the generator. I wasn't interested in the whole house, because we've only been without power for a few periods of a max of about 45 minutes. Since I had this generator, I figured it might come in handy if we were ever without power for longer than that. If I was going to go whole house, I'd definitely go for a larger, quieter one.