I agree with those that advise against using a computerized machine on the generator. Older mechanical would be fine. The computerized ones are probably okay with a surge protector as well but I just wouldn't take the chance. We just power back after being out for 24 hrs. My family in CT is anticpating being out for a week or longer. They were out for 5-6 days following Irene. Fortunately we had no outages then - just flooding.