Since I got power back on pretty quickly in the wake of Sandy, I loaned my generator out along with a tank of propane. In doing so I discovered that the propane tank had a bad connector. Lesson learned – before the storm hits check all of your propane tanks! Just connect each one and power up the generator for a minute. Also, don’t forget that all generators use plenty of oil, so check it each time you swap tanks.
As you are all probably aware my area of the country, New Jersey, got clobbered by Super Storm Sandy. Luckily, I was only out of power for a day. But, many neighbors are still dealing with the extensive blackouts. For those who might be using a generator to get through this here are some tips.
Always run the generator outside. Generators give off carbon monoxide which can build up in your house and kill you and your family. Don’t take the chance.
Don’t run your generator all night. When our blackout hit on Sun. night I ran our generator for about an hour – long enough to get the sump pump going and get everyone to bed safely. I ran it again for a few minutes before I actually went to sleep (just to drain the sump). But, I heard many generators running the neighborhood. This is not only annoying, but also a complete waste of your valuable fuel (see my next point).
When a long term blackout is predicted do not run your generator constantly – you will run out of fuel. Have you seen the gas lines in NJ and NY? How many of those people are trying to fill up their generators? So, how often should you run it. Here was my plan for the current blackout.
Based on last year’s blackout (seems to be a regular Oct. event now), I predicted that we might be out of power for about 7-10 days (and based on current estimates that seems about right). So, I loaded up four 20lbs propane tanks. Each tank lasts about 8 hours. If I ran my generator continuously I could go for about 32 hours. Which means I would have run out of propane sometime Mon. night. Most of the roads near my house are closed and all of the gas stations, so by now I would have been without backup power for 3 days. So, my plan was to run the generator for about 4 hours per day. One hour in the morning so everyone can get breakfast, catch up on the news, heat the house, drain the sump, and get the fridge cooled down. I was going to run it for about 3 hours at night (from about 7-10pm). Using this method I would go for 8 days on backup power. So, I would still have propane now and enough to get through to early next week.
If you are using a generator, please do so safely and try to conserve your fuel – especially if you use gas as it is in such short supply.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Issac over 100,00 people are still without power in the Gulf Coast. Most of those without power are in Louisiana. There are also people without power in Arkansas and Mississippi. Hey, it’s been almost a week! Both Presidential candidates have visited the area. But still no power!
It is unfortunate, but disaster can strike just about anywhere these days. So, we all need to be prepared as best we can. That doesn’t only mean a backup generator, but also stocking up on fresh water and non-perishable food.
Rating: List Price:$5,221.07 Sale Price:$3,876.98 (as of 08/14/2012 23:39 UTC - Details)
All-steel enclosure makes this unit among the quietest in its class. The perfect lp unit for class b and c motor homes, sport utility trailers, towable applications and fifth wheels with a single or dual roof air conditioning. Innovative design and prototype testing are key components of generac's success. But it doesn't stop there. Total commitment to component testing, reliability testing, environmental testing, destruction and life testing, plus testing to applicable csa, RVia, and other standards, allows you to choose generac power systems with the confidence that these systems will provide superior performance. Solid-state, frequency compensated voltage regulation: this state-of-the-art power maximizing regulation system is standard on all generac models. It provides optimized fast response to changing load conditions and maximum motor starting capability by electronically torque-matching the surge loads to the engine. No hassle seRVice. All maintenance items are easily accessible at the front of the generator for quick replacement. These generators feature a 760cc, 27 horse generac ohvi v-twin engine. The largest engine in air-cooled RV power generation allows for constant output under extreme conditions. Generator specifications: rated maximum continuous power capacity: 7500 watts. Rated voltage: 120. Rated maximum continuous load current. 120 volts: 62-1/2 amps. 240 volt configurable: yes (31.25 amps). Main line circuit breakers: 35 and 35 amp. Engine specifications: type of engine: generac ohvi v-twin. Number of cylinders: 2. Displacement: 760cc. Cylinder block: aluminum w/cast iron sleeves valve arrangement: overhead valve. Ignition system: solid-state w/magneto. Governor system: mechanical fixed speed. Compression ratio: 9-1/2:1. Starter: 12 vdc. 3-year limited warranty.
Rating: List Price:unavailable Sale Price:$499.99 (as of 08/14/2012 23:39 UTC - Details)
Portable power for camping, tailgate parties, home stand-by, construction sites, and more. Features quick and easy propane tank hook up. Does NOT include propane tank, but DOES include propane fuel hose.
Powerland is expanding its line of Tri-Fuel generators. The Powerland PD3G10000E is already one of the best generators on the market. But, with 10,000 watts of power its overkill for some people. The new models will have lower power outputs and, presumably, lower price points. Check back for complete reviews as we get our hands on these new Tri-Fuel generator models.
In the meantime enjoy this video overview of the Powerland PD3G10000E.