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    Missouri Bound's Avatar
    Missouri Bound Posts: 1,532, Reputation: 94
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    #1

    Jan 31, 2009, 03:39 PM
    Standby generator
    After a recent ice storm and power outage, I have begun looking into installing a standby generator for my important items in the event of a power failure. Anyone have experience with these devices? Anyone have any recommendations or feedback from personal experience? I'm open to suggestions and I am leaning towards an 8 to 10 KW unit. It will be LP powered and wired to an automatic transfer switch.

    Any help would be appreciated.
    KISS's Avatar
    KISS Posts: 12,510, Reputation: 839
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    #2

    Jan 31, 2009, 03:44 PM

    JudyKayTee can tell you what not to do because she recently had one installed.

    Briggsandstratton has introduced a unique transfer panel that allows one to automagicly prioritize loads. Not enough info on their website though.
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
    Electrical & Lighting Expert
    		  
    #3

    Jan 31, 2009, 05:02 PM
    I've done several B&S standby units. I haven't heard of this new technology yet though.

    The new Generac units are real nice. Very quiet.
    KISS's Avatar
    KISS Posts: 12,510, Reputation: 839
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    #4

    Jan 31, 2009, 05:10 PM

    How Standby Power Works : Buying Guide : Home Generator Systems

    Command Central Upgrade
    Fr_Chuck's Avatar
    Fr_Chuck Posts: 81,301, Reputation: 7692
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    #5

    Jan 31, 2009, 05:32 PM

    LP is good, if you have natural gas available that works great also.

    The size will depend on what you have, freezers, electric heat or gas heat and more.

    Generac does make some nice units, Some can be set to turn thierself on at least once a month to do self tests and more
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
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    #6

    Jan 31, 2009, 05:34 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by Fr_Chuck View Post
    Some can be set to turn thierself on at least once a month to do self tests and more
    Every standby unit I have ever seen or wired has this feature.
    Typically it's once a week for 10-20 minutes
    Stratmando's Avatar
    Stratmando Posts: 11,188, Reputation: 508
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    #7

    Jan 31, 2009, 05:50 PM

    I live in an area where Huricanes and the outages can be severe. I see some people wanting 200 Amps from Generator so their Central Air, Water Heaters, As if there is no outage. Most of the people I work for don't have that much, and are happy having A refrigerator, Lights, fans, Necessities.
    Plus your fuel last longer for the essientials.
    Running at 200 Amps Eats Fuel.
    Easiest and cheapest would be a 50 Amp power inlet on the side of the house(Generator Location) and run to panel with a interlock kit(To make safe and stop backfeeding)
    Generator InterLock Kit
    Then have all breakers off except all necessary and room breakers. Only have a light on when you need it, turn it off when you leave.
    Stratmando's Avatar
    Stratmando Posts: 11,188, Reputation: 508
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    #8

    Jan 31, 2009, 05:58 PM

    Bet you could get away with using something like this, if not, they make Larger, Good Luck:
    Pramac Generator 7.5Kw- Home Standby Kit - 04992 at The Home Depot
    Automatic WILL cost more.
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