what is the most affordable, and easy home power back up system, car batteries with an inverter, generator..., and something that can be set up and ready to use in a matter of seconds or minutes.... doesnt matter if it has to be manually turned on or such, would hardwire from garage to house points where back up is needed.... ????
2007-09-21 17:07:03 · 6 answers · asked by frank5162 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
Car batteries with inverter have limited operating time and power capability until the battery is drained. They can be connected to the car, but then you've lost your transportation.
I installed a manual transfer panel which connects to a portable 5500 watt generator. When the power goes out I call the electric company to find out what has happened and get an estimated restoration time. Unless there is nothing happening I will connect the generator and have things restored very quickly. It is simple to move the generator outside, plug it in, and throw the switch. I think this is the most cost effective approach.
If you have natural gas available and can afford to upgrade, an automatic start and transfer system would be even better. This would also be preferable for critical situations where you can not be without power such as for life support equipment or some commercial applications.
Read through my home generator page for more information and suggestions.
http://members.rennlist.org/warren/generator.html
2007-09-22 00:15:40 · answer #1 · answered by Warren914 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
As expensive as generators have become in Hurricane areas; they can save yer bacon (metaphorically).
If one has the money and chooses to live where power outages are as common as weeds then perhaps a Whole House; Hard wired generator is the answer.
With enough expense certainly a generator with a starter, much like a car would work. That would require a battery to achieve the startup. AND at some pint perhaps need a re-charge. AND emergencies aren't exactly something that can be tracked by a clock, or posted on a calendar.
To strictly use car batteries, and go through the inverter deal; I suspect you'd be as well off using candles.
I live in FL and power downs/browns/blacks; happen often. It has other benefits that cause a balance however.
If I had to choose ahead of time, and my choice depended heavily on an emergency plan; I'd probably choose another location. I'd love to own a Lighthouse or live on top of a mountain; etc. etc. but adding to all other issues by living where I need peripherals, seems illogical to me.
Steven Wolf
GREAT Site Marc. Certainly that dictates having access to natural gas or tanks on site. and/or a hook up to propane if available. I didn't dig too deep but have to assume these are not a bargain in a strict sense. I will keep the site,and have local dealers I'm associated with.
2007-09-21 17:21:10 · answer #2 · answered by DIY Doc 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Affordable, easy? That would be a gasoline powered generator, installed with a transfer switch and panel. Have it installed by a real electrician not a handyman hack.
edit: Go to Warren914's generator page. It is excellent. It tells you everything you need to know.
2007-09-22 02:51:05 · answer #3 · answered by John himself 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
London
2016-05-20 08:12:01 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
generator powered by natural gas. comes on automatically ,shuts off when electric comes back on. gasoline runs out and pumps wont be working during blackout.
2007-09-21 17:13:28 · answer #5 · answered by MARC 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Personally I am a Honda fan
http://www.epinions.com/content_189227437700
2007-09-21 17:46:28 · answer #6 · answered by Derek 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋