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Post Info TOPIC: No power tonight.. Generator question


A Poncho Legend!

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No power tonight.. Generator question


I was just getting ready to head out to "Pontiac Heaven" (my garage) when the power went out. In the two hours that followed I got to thinking that perhaps it wouldn't be a bad idea to invest in a decent generator. We have an attached granny flat for my inlaws and it doesn't take long before their 80+ year old bodies are cold. I'd like to get a generator that I can wire into the main panel and activate it via a switch that would turn off the grid and connect the generator. Anyone on here have such a system in place? How may Watts do you run? I'd likely shut down non essential breakers during a power outage and likely rotate the other high load items (fridges(we have 2), freezers, furnace, etc).
Todd

-- Edited by 69Laurentian at 21:50, 2008-02-08

-- Edited by 69Laurentian at 21:51, 2008-02-08

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Todd
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You'll need a minimum 5Kw set. And once they get to that size, they start getting a bit pricey. But if the power goes out on a regular basis, it may not be a bad investment.

But shop carefully and keep a close eye on fuel consumtion and noise. A diesel powered unit is best, but that is the most expensinve. If you use it enough, then the fuel savings will pay for themselves.

As far as gas powered units go, the OHV engine jobs are the best. Stay away from the old L-head engines, they are reliable, but will run you into the poor house putting gas into them.

Mike

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Canadian Poncho Superstar!

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i have what is called a generator panel. it's mounted right beside the original panel and is fed from the original panel or a generator, i have what i call the critical curcuits mounted in it. furnace, hot water, well pump, sump pumps, central air, freezer, fridge and 2 wall sockets for lights. the panel works by a double throw, one to knock you off the grid the secound to connect you to the generator, double throw again to connect back to the grid. it rated for 30 amps but they do sell a 60 amp. when i experience a power failure i go down stairs and switch the panel to generator then go out to my garage connect the generator to the generator panel connector plug in the garage and flash up the generator. my generator is rated for 6500 watts. i've had this set up for 5 years now and no hickups. i might have went with the 60 amps but when you need the most electricity is on start up and nothing kicks on at the same time. this is the cheapest and legal way to go.

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sTevE

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A Poncho Legend!

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I picked up a PorterCable (owned by DeVilbiss) 5200 watt (6500 surge watts)generator at TSC yesterday. Clearance item- $400 off! I called two local stores- there was one left so I grabbed it. Nice unit. It has a Tecumseh OHV engine (11hp). It should work well for what I need it for.
Todd


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Congrats on the purchase!

Mike

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