Hundreds of thousands were left powerless for more than three days. Utility companies in California also had difficulties supplying electricity this summer as high temperatures caused homeowners to the crank up the air conditioners, resulting in rolling blackouts. This approach works well for smaller generators because you only can plug in one or two items. Be sure to use appropriate-sized power cords to carry the electric load. Typically, the thicker the cord, the more electricity it can carry.
Extension cords have several drawbacks.
First, most extension cord can't be plugged into a furnace, well pump or ceiling-light fixture. If the extension cords are too long, they can potentially damage the generator and appliances. And, if they are placed under rugs or carpets, heat can build and spark a fire. The transfer switch is installed beside the main electrical panel, and then it's connected to the appliances and circuits you'll want running during a blackout. When the power goes out, you simply crank up the generator and run a single extension cord from it to the transfer switch.