Cheap Power Backup

Willow · #1 03-13-2006, 08:19 PM

i have been a bit paranoid about power outages in the last year. my current system is kinda lame so i found this generator, it's perfect! 1200 watt's and is tiny. the price (299.00) was basically the same as a deep cycle battery backup so it's pretty affordable.

anyway thought i would share for anyone looking for a deal.

http://www.canadiantire.ca/assortmen...romSearch=true

fkshiu · #2 03-13-2006, 08:44 PM

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

GMGQ · #3 03-13-2006, 08:45 PM

Interesting find. So how does it run when it's on? Does it start up like a lawn mower?

And I assume you have to be home to plug in whatever you want to power? It's not plugged in in-line, and come on automatically when the power cuts out?

TheReefGeek · #4 03-13-2006, 09:21 PM

Does this have to be run outside because of fumes?

Willow · #5 03-13-2006, 09:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GMGQ

Interesting find. So how does it run when it's on? Does it start up like a lawn mower?

And I assume you have to be home to plug in whatever you want to power? It's not plugged in in-line, and come on automatically when the power cuts out?

it's a 4 stroke engine, takes unleaded and has a rip cord. runs for around 6 hours on a tank of gas. yes you must be there to start it when the power goes out.

Willow · #6 03-13-2006, 09:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheReefGeek

Does this have to be run outside because of fumes?

umm yeah, carbon dioxide tends to kill people in confined areas.

TheReefGeek · #7 03-13-2006, 09:29 PM

Anyone running a generator that will kick in automatically when the power goes out?

Delphinus · #8 03-13-2006, 09:47 PM

I kinda doubt it, although it would be an interesting DIY project. First, wait until a neighbour starts to work on his '57 Chevy. Wait for him to have a bathroom break but hopefully he leaves the hood open (offer beer to help speed the process along). Then, while he's inside, quickly remove the starter, install the starter on your generator and away you go!

Disclaimer: I'm not 100% certain a starter motor from a '57 Chevy is the only option.

mark · #9 03-13-2006, 09:56 PM

It's a rather easy DIY to have autostart if the generator already has a electric (battery starter) just using contactors and relays. The only real caution is having 'break before make' contactor for supplying load to ensure you don't tie the generator and utility together (transfer switch function).

TheReefGeek · #10 03-13-2006, 10:13 PM

Can you describe a bit more what you mean by

Quote:

tie the generator and utility together