Back Up Power
Generators
Having a source of back up power is another step in being prepared for disasters.
Power generators are great products to help maintain electricity in homes during prolonged blackouts. They can keep the whole house powered or just certain appliances like refrigerators and freezers.
The most commonly used back up power sources are gas and propane generators; however, there are alternatives such as wind and solar power.
Here are some things you need to consider before
purchasing a new or used generator.
- Do you want back up power for only a few appliances or for all of your appliances?
- Create a list of the items you want to run off the generator and the wattage requirement of each item (note any differences for start-up and usage).
- Do you want a permanent or portable generator - one that will kick on automatically when the power shuts off and switches off when the power returns or one that you will hook up as needed.
- Determine the type of fuel source you will use; gas, diesel, propane or do you want to go the wind or solar route.
- When comparing prices within your wattage requirements the average unit ranges from $500 to $3,000 depending upon brand, size, wattage, fuel source, warranty and maintenance requirements.
Special Note - Install a transfer switch to connect the unit to your home's wiring system - never connect a generator directly to your home. Hire a qualified electrician to install a transfer switch if you are connecting the generator directly to your home's electrical system.
Figure on $500 to $1,000 for installing stationary generators and, for all types, at least $500 for a power-transfer switch to power hardwired circuits, which avoids having to run extension cords.
American - made Reliance Pro / Tran Transfer Switches Kit. Choose a 6-circuit or a 10-circuit Transfer Switch Kit, both complete, ready to install in a so you can switch to generator power in an emergency.6-circuit kit handles up to 7500 watts of power and 10-circuit kit up to 8000.
Gas, Diesel and Propane Powered
Consumer Reports tested 15 generators to help you prepare for blackouts. Many are better and safer than before, but one important thing to consider - refueling some generators could be a challenge during a power outage.
If you are using gas or diesel you will need to have plenty of fuel on hand, since filling stations often shut down during blackouts and most home-sized models use 12 to 18 gallons of gasoline per day. You'll also need to preserve that fuel with stabilizer and store it in a well-vented shed or other area, away from the house and any ignition source.
Gasoline can’t be stored for a long time and diesel is not readily available so it would best to use propane. There are times that home generators are available in dual- or tri-fuel format wherein switching fuels is totally fine.
Also, be aware that manufacturers often overstate run time for gasoline models by basing it on 50 percent load. Consumer Reports run times use a more conservative, 80 percent load.
Prevent carbon-monoxide poisoning by always running your generator outdoors and at least 15 feet away from the house. Never run it in the basement or garage or other enclosed space.
Reduce fire risk by turning off gasoline-powered generators before refueling them.
Store gasoline in an ANSI-approved container and in a cool, well-ventilated area.
Portable Generators
Consumer Reports tested portable models that claimed between 2,800 and 6,600 watts—enough to power plug-in appliances and lights, but not nearly enough for heavy power drains like central heat & air.
Wheeled, portable generators are the biggest sellers.
One portable, the Northstar 8000TFG, can use a liquid-propane tank with several days' supply or a natural-gas line. But at $2,000, it's pricey for its wattage. ETQ PG30P11 3,500 Watt 7 HP 208cc 4-Cycle OHV Propane Powered Portable Generator
generator provides quiet, efficient, and cost-effective power to electrical appliances. You'll get the performance you need thanks to a seven-horsepower, 208-cc engine that produces up to 3,500 watts of energy--enough power to run your TV, refrigerator, water heater, or other household appliance.
Honeywell HW6200L 7,750 Watt 13 HP 389cc OHV Portable Gas Powered Home Generator (CARB Compliant)
provides dependable power in a simple and powerful portable electric generator. Great for residential applications and for homeowners seeking a reliable backup electric power generator. Features an OHV engine with oversized muffler for quiet operation, Smart Start controls and wheel kit for easy portability.
Whole House Generators
Of course, they are more expensive than portables and require professional installation, which are their main disadvantages. Note however, such systems do increase the value of the house.
Kohler Residential Standby Generator - 14 kW (LP)/12 kW (NG), Dual Fuel, Model# 14RESL
generators are a growing alternative back up power supply, since they run on propane or natural gas and supply more power. Kohler's $3,700 12RESL delivered more than 10,000 watts and costs less than many in its class.
Quiet operation VANGUARD V-Twin engines Durable outdoor enclosure. Computer-friendly power. 3 year limited warranty.
Wind Generator
If you are considering a wind generator look for those that offer a 3-5 year warranty or more. This is also a good indicator that the manufacturers have confidence in what they are producing because they know they would not make a profit using sub standard equipment backed with a long warranty.
When possible look for those systems which allow energy to be stored using a direct DC supply. You will also want to install an inverter to convert your stored DC energy into an AC supply for powering appliances in the home. You should avoid any generators which come with built-in inverters as these can become easily damaged and will cost quite a bit to replace.
All you need is one or more 12-volt batteries (sold separately) to store power and an inverter to convert the power to the required voltage. The carbon fiber composite blades produce little more than a whisper of wind noise. Patented high wind over speed technology ensures a clean charge. Fully integrated regulator automatically shuts down when the batteries are charged to minimize wear. Don't worry about maintenance on this unit. It has only two moving parts and the cast-aluminum body is durable and completely weatherproof. Delivers maximum power output of 400 watts or 27 amps in ideal conditions. Manufacturer's three-year warranty. Tower kit sold separately. Made in USA .Weight: 17 lbs.
Solar Powered Generator
There are many ways to collect solar energy including solar panels, parabolic troughs, solar dishes, and solar power towers with reflecting mirrors.
Kit includes everything you need for easy installation. Can be used to charge a 12-volt battery (sold separately). Built-in blocking diode protects against battery discharge at night.
Kit includes PVC mounting frame, 7-amp charge controller, 175-watt inverter and all wiring and connecting cable. Maximum power output of 60 watts or 4 amps in ideal conditions. Manufacturer's five-year warranty. Total weight: 55 lbs. Each panel measures: 36" x 12".
Here are some additional resources for obtaining supplies and instructions on building or purchasing solar and wind energy sources.
http://www.solarpowerathome.com/portable-solar-power-generator.html
http://www.solarhome.org/solargenerator.html
Tips for Purchasing a Used Generator
Purchasing a pre-owned generator is the most cost effective way to obtain a back up power supply. However, there are a few things to consider when buying a used generator.
Reputation of brand and the make:
- Buying a branded product will help you to get the top quality services and maintenance for your product.
- Trust the professional reputation of the dealer.
Know the history of the machine:
- How old is the unit.
- How many hours it had run, and
- How the unit had been used in the past - was it used for constant generation of power, or it was mainly a stand by unit.
- Enquire about the maintenance history - was it blown up previously and rebuilt just to sell it.
- Ask whether the machine has been de-installed or re-installed in the past or whether the generator is maintained with a dyno-testing equipment.
Visually inspect the unit for any trace the signs of physical wear and tear. Also check carefully, whether any mechanical parts have developed any corrosion. In case of any doubt, ask the seller to replace it with manufacturer approved component.
Source
Consumer Report -
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/home-garden/safety-security/generators/overview/index.htm
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