Malcolm: If you go to http://www2.northerntool.com/generator-buyers-guide.htm this site explains what to look for and the types This one http://www.generatorjoe.net/html/wattageguide.html is a spreadsheet style that helps you determine how big the generator needs to be. Some things I have learned for generator use over the years: - anything with a motor needs at least 3 times the rated power to get running up to speed. A 1 HP sump pump draws about 750 watts while running but to get it running will require at least a 3KW generator to get it running - every time you fill the gas check the oil - they do consume oil as well - you need at least 12 gauge extension cords to minimize voltage drops to your device you wish to power (remember ohms law...) - you need a security system so others will not steal your generator - a steel cable and lock will be required - you need to stock pile at least 5 gallons of gas per day while in use. Many large generators have a 5-7 gallon tank and that will run for 8-10 hours with 50% load Email me privately for more info! Good Luck! Regards,
Jack Skelley Jack Skelley Senior Director, Programming/Computer Operations New Jersey Devils (973)757-6164 [email protected] ________________________________________ From: ProfoxTech [[email protected]] on behalf of Malcolm Greene [[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, November 06, 2012 9:23 AM To: [email protected] Subject: [NF] Recommendations on small office generators Hi guys, I know this post is probably pushing the boundaries of [NF], but it is technical because I need to find a way to continue to operate my small, home office based software development and consulting business during extended power outages. I'm looking for advice on generator types (gas or propane), brands, generator sizing, and/or websites that can explain the tradeoffs involved in purchasing a small office/home generator. There's lots of price gouging going on in NJ and I'm suspicious of all the self-proclaimed experts that have suddenly (and many times literally) come out of the woods. My requirements: At a minimum I need to operate 2 servers, 1 LCD monitor, 4 laptops, a wireless printer, a router, cable modem, lights across 3 rooms, and a motley mix of phone and iPad re-chargers. Ideally I would like to operate a few more rooms of lights and the fans/blowers on a basement based propane heating unit. I do not need to operate a fridge, freezer, washing machine, dryer or any other appliances. My neighbors have purchased gas based generators, but they're constantly waiting in line re-filling gas tanks. This doesn't look like a sustainable solution for me - especially if I am on the road traveling. I have a large underground propane tank, so this would seem to be a better solution, albeit at additional cost and complexity. I do not need an automatic switchover capability - my servers have UPS and shut themselves down gracefully. I want to make an informed decision on when to switch over to a generator ... after I've had time to shut down all the other devices/appliances I don't want to power. Appreciate your advice! Malcolm --- StripMime Report -- processed MIME parts --- multipart/alternative text/plain (text body -- kept) text/html --- [excessive quoting removed by server] _______________________________________________ Post Messages to: [email protected] Subscription Maintenance: http://mail.leafe.com/mailman/listinfo/profox OT-free version of this list: http://mail.leafe.com/mailman/listinfo/profoxtech Searchable Archive: http://leafe.com/archives/search/profox This message: http://leafe.com/archives/byMID/profox/7d9e7f72b813014c8fd022cf04f820ed5851d...@ex08.drdad.thenewarkarena.com ** All postings, unless explicitly stated otherwise, are the opinions of the author, and do not constitute legal or medical advice. This statement is added to the messages for those lawyers who are too stupid to see the obvious.
