backup generator thoughts?

:) Maybe a frozen keg! :)
But yes, that's the idea. Do I really need to run the entire system or just a few pumps for 5 hours or so. I mean at 950g I'm all for overkill (obviously) but I'd rather drop 5K on coral than a generator! :) (Even though I am still leaning that way......I tihink I am trying to talk myself out of it! )


I've got the tank up and running.... no leaks now and all the rock is in.
Gonna put a few fish in tonight.......

I'll have enough progress to post some pics in a thread soon....
 
BTW 3,500 peak watts at 110v = 31 amps peak and 27 constant.

That is enough to drive the 1.5 hp return pump for the 90 and 300 (12ish amps), the fridge (8ish) a couple lights and a fan or heater if necessary. I don't think you need more around here, but I wouldn't go less if you are looking into a 450 gal tank. Of course, bigger is always better and a 5,500 watt unit will get you 50 amps. That should be enough to drive almost everything in your house with amps to spare.
 
Oh, excluding MH lights. The corals can live without them for a day or so. It will also keep the heat down in the tank.
 
Would this be a good choice for the money?

just add "http" before the link below. For whatever reason it gets cutoff when I put the whole link together. Basically it is a Briggs and Stratton for $700 - 5 gallon tank.

://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/diy_main/pg_diy.jsp?CNTTYPE=PROD_META&CNTKEY=misc%2fsearchResults.jsp&BV_SessionID=@@@@2048648674.1154376643@@@@&BV_EngineID=cchgaddihggmdhgcgelceffdfgidgim.0&MID=9876[/url]
 
Last edited:
Damn, miss this thread and just started my own.

Im looking for specifics on making a choice for a 15-16 Kw generator. Seems that the most popular is the Generac probably bc it the cheapest. 5423 will run about $3400 online.

How about other brands such as Kohler, Briggs Stratton, Sentry=Pro and performance ?

How about installation ? Will it be cheaper to buy online and contract someone local to install it ?

Looking into local companies for quotes right now. I hate Home Depot, the service sucks particularly in Yonkers, NY. I call to get a qoute and the people hang up or redirect the call. then they are too f***ing lazy and say the don't do that type of work.
 
What about solar options?

I don't mean to be funny - i understand the benefits of a gas generator for on-demand power, consistency, etc. - but what about solar panels to supplement a bank of batteries.
I understand Exelon pays you if you actually add power to the grid... What if running your tank actually MADE you money!!! Ha!
 
Thought about solar, but eliminated it due to initial startup costs........... :(
Unless someone knows differently.....
 
we have a generac at my house, didnt have it set up but the power went out a few nights ago so i was down by the tank for about an hour between like 2 and 3 blowing air bubbles through some air line lol.....today i set up the generator for the next occurance, especially with all this heat, you dont know whats gunnu happen to the power.
 
I have a Generac 5500running watts and 8500 peak watts that will run my window air, pumps, electric house heater, deep freeze, etc., etc. Will run the fridge too and a bunch of other stuff if necessary. Haven't had to use it yet but I'll have it just in case. Cost me $699 plus a couple of rebates for a free set of hand held radios, TV/weather alert system, $50 rebate at Home Depot
 
Freed a 5500 running watts will not run all of that. I can run each of those things but not all of them at once. Fridge will average 2500 peak, as will deep freeze. That's 5K right there, and about half your running wattage. AC is at least 1K running, 2K starting. To run all of that efficiently and safely (not overloading the capacity of the generator), my research suggests needing at least 12K running watts.
 
Interesting my little guide that came with the generator listed a fridge at only 8 amps. I have run the fridge, the 1.5hp return pump, some lights, the computer and a box fan at the same time off the 3500 with no problem. The little sucker was working hard when we added the fridge, but no problems.
 
I just pickup fron HD the 5500 for only $425

I just pickup fron HD the 5500 for only $425

HD han them for sale for around $550 then got 20% off them 10% then $25.00 off. for total sale around 425.00. They had to many shipped to them.
 
Here is my 2 cents -

1. Forget Honda... give me a break Jap junk.... The best generators are made in America.

2. Generac - decent Choice, but high in price.

3. Briggs and Stratton - best engine, best built, best cost. Engine built in USA and Generator assembled in Jefferson Wisconsin..... You can get a small home standby like this -

http://www.homegeneratorsystems.com/products/7kw.cfm

For a lot less than the generac - all you need to do is size it to take care of your tank and fridge....

Ed


PS - disclaimer - I happen to work for Briggs and Stratton, but I still think you should go with Briggs, they are excellent units for a lot less than generac or Honda rice burners...
 
Chuck, which HD??? Which generator, Coleman? And what, did you bargain with them or was $425 the price?
 
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