Cheap Power Backup

Willow · #1 03-13-2006, 08:24 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 · #2 03-13-2006, 08:29 PM

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

Delphinus · #3 03-13-2006, 08:47 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 · #4 03-13-2006, 08:56 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 · #5 03-13-2006, 09:13 PM

Can you describe a bit more what you mean by

Quote:

tie the generator and utility together

mark · #6 03-13-2006, 09:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheReefGeek

Can you describe a bit more what you mean by

You won't be able to match phase so can't have the generator supplying to the same point as utility at the same time (think shorting 240v).

Delphinus · #7 03-13-2006, 09:30 PM

It depends on how you're running the generator, but, say, if your house is cutoff from power, you can use a generator to power your household outlets (e.g., fridge, etc.). The only problem with that is you need to be isolated from your upstream electrical provider (ie., have your main breaker off).

mark · #8 03-13-2006, 11:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Delphinus

It depends on how you're running the generator, but, say, if your house is cutoff from power, you can use a generator to power your household outlets (e.g., fridge, etc.). The only problem with that is you need to be isolated from your upstream electrical provider (ie., have your main breaker off).

Device to transfer load and isolate is done through a 'transfer switch' (common search-able term), can be manual or automated (no need to touch breakers). A automated transfer switch is not beyond the DIY (though thinking my wife would probably be concerned if I said "look what I did").

Paverdude · #9 03-13-2006, 11:20 PM

I have a 7500 watt that starts whenever the power goes out (happens lots in the country)

TheReefGeek · #10 03-13-2006, 11:49 PM

Paverdude, any more details for us?

Quote:

or for 10k cheaper you could drag your ass out to the porch and start the generator and haul the extention cord inside.

That is if you are home when it happens. I would eventually like a backup so I know my reef stays alive when I am gone for two weeks. Or even a weekend. Without water circulation and heaters for a weekend you are screwed.