Quote: "Thanks for the advice. I think I'll start out with extension cords to what ever devices I want power and later add the transfer switch. What kind of cost can one expect for a setup like yours...excluding the generator".

Paul,

I bought my transfer switch from a store that rented generators. It was a display model mounted on the wall. I got a good deal on it, but don't recall what I paid. If I had to stab in the dark, probably somewhere around $150 about 6 yrs ago. In the big scheme of things, it was not costly. My advice is to pay the few extra bucks for a model with gauges to keep the loads balanced.

Here is the model I purchased:
http://www.indiacatalog.com/tools3/B0000225D1.html

It appears to be discontinued.

Looking around at the web a bit I would expect to pay $250-$350 for a basic transfer switch. The more circuits, the more $$$. You should be able to pick up something decent online or at a Home Depot, Lowe’s, etc.

I did see some single circuit switches for under $150. You could always pick one priority circuit in your house, then use extension cords from there to reach critical appliances/tools. Not as clean a set up, but safe (if you use quality extension cords and don’t trip over them) and functional enough during a short duration outage.

I think the biggest cost would be the labor to install the transfer switch. I did the installation myself and it was not that hard or technical. I mounted mine directly below the existing power distribution box. I used a short length of flexible metal conduit with appropriate end hardware to connect the two boxes. Just set aside a couple of hours and be patient. You will be rewarded with a nice install. Honestly, my work was better than the professionals that did the original installation of the breaker box.

Good luck, TR