Cheap Power Backup

[mr_alberta]

Have you fired it up? How loud is it? Hmm, I wonder if I can convert it to natural gas...I get a free NG hookup on my balcony for my apartment

[mark]

Originally Posted by TheReefGeek

Can you describe a bit more what you mean by

You won't be able to match phase so can't have the generator supplying to the same point as utility at the same time (think shorting 240v).

[Delphinus]

It depends on how you're running the generator, but, say, if your house is cutoff from power, you can use a generator to power your household outlets (e.g., fridge, etc.). The only problem with that is you need to be isolated from your upstream electrical provider (ie., have your main breaker off).

[mark]

Originally Posted by Delphinus

It depends on how you're running the generator, but, say, if your house is cutoff from power, you can use a generator to power your household outlets (e.g., fridge, etc.). The only problem with that is you need to be isolated from your upstream electrical provider (ie., have your main breaker off).

Device to transfer load and isolate is done through a 'transfer switch' (common search-able term), can be manual or automated (no need to touch breakers). A automated transfer switch is not beyond the DIY (though thinking my wife would probably be concerned if I said "look what I did").

[Willow]

or for 10k cheaper you could drag your ass out to the porch and start the generator and haul the extention cord inside.

[Willow]

Originally Posted by mr_alberta

Have you fired it up? How loud is it? Hmm, I wonder if I can convert it to natural gas...I get a free NG hookup on my balcony for my apartment

nope, have to get some oil. will let you know.

[StirCrazy]

Originally Posted by fkshiu

I've been thinking about a secondary power source myself especially since I know my electricity will be intermittent during home renovations.

Anyone ever heard of using a "power pack" as opposed to a gas generator or a UPS?

http://www.canadiantire.ca/assortmen...=1142282803965

that will only last about 6 hours with a 1amp draw.. not worth the money in my opinion.

Steve

[StirCrazy]

Originally Posted by Willow

or for 10k cheaper you could drag your ass out to the porch and start the generator and haul the extention cord inside.

naa, for 4K you can get a 7KW natural gas generator with transfer switch.. probably cost another 500.00 to have it installed.

Steve

[Paverdude]

I have a 7500 watt that starts whenever the power goes out (happens lots in the country)

[TheReefGeek]

Paverdude, any more details for us?

or for 10k cheaper you could drag your ass out to the porch and start the generator and haul the extention cord inside.

That is if you are home when it happens. I would eventually like a backup so I know my reef stays alive when I am gone for two weeks. Or even a weekend. Without water circulation and heaters for a weekend you are screwed.