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In most cases, line wires are located at the bottom of a panel or device, while load wires are located at the top. Line wires are generally black, while load wires are typically red or black. To tell for sure, you can use a multimeter or volt pen to test the wire. A live or line wire will always carry a charge, while a load wire will only carry a charge when it’s in use.

Generators are safe to use as long as they are installed and operated correctly according to the manufacturer's recommendations. The most critical safety tips are to never use a portable or fuel-powered generator inside an enclosed space due to the risk of lethal carbon monoxide poisoning; always operate it outdoors where fumes can dissipate away from your home. Additionally, never attempt to connect a generator to your home’s electrical panel yourself—hire a professional to ensure the setup meets safety standards. Finally, avoid overloading the generator by not connecting more appliances than it is rated for, as this can damage your equipment or cause a fire.

You can determine what size generator you need for a transfer switch by matching the switch to the largest outlet on your generator. Larger generators can power up to 10 circuits, while most 5,000-watt generators can provide power to six circuits. So, if your generator’s largest outlet is 30 amps, you’ll need a 30-amp transfer switch.

Ultimately, the best device depends on what you’re measuring. A voltmeter only measures volts, while a multimeter measures volts, current, resistance, humidity, and possibly much more, depending on the model. If you think you’ll need to measure more than volts, consider investing in a multimeter so you have a tool that can help you with various household projects.