Sounds like you have a nice generator/power setup.  Your generator holds 25+   
   gallons or is that just how much you keep on hand?   
      
   Your switchbox just makes sure you can't accidentally backfeed the utility,   
   and I do know it is required to be legal.  We don't lose power that often   
   here, thankfully.  I have my (4) double ended male extension cords ready to   
   backfeed the house if it happens again.     
      
   I plug each one into different circuits in the basement, so none are   
   overloaded.  Gives me a full 30-40 amps for the house.    
      
   I was very surprised as to how much would run on the 5000 watt generater.    
   Just making sure not to turn on all the heavy hitters on at once.  We did have   
   a hairdryer, toaster over, (2) fridges, microwave, open the garage door, and   
   furnace + 10 computers all on at the same time, with lights, etc.  It takes   
   6.5 gallons and was lasting around 10 or so hours on average.     
      
   I was very happy to have heat, etc while the power was out for 24 hours.   
      
   BTW, we are also gas heat and gas hot water.  We also have a gas fireplace.   
      
   - Mark   
      
   --- WWIVToss v.1.50    
    * Origin:  http://www.weather-station.org * Bel Air, MD -USA (1:261/1304.0)