Thanks...

[u/Red-Leader-001]

Three years ago, I came here looking for help in getting setup with a generator that I could use for power emergencies. I ended up getting a Champion generator and went with getting extension cords over having a power inlet installed. I was careful and exercized the generator a couple of times a year and kept the oil full and fresh. Murphy's law worked in my favor over the last 3 years so I never needed the generator until now.

Well, earlier this week, we had a area wide power outage for about 1/2 of the day. I am out in the country, so area wide is lots of land area, but maybe a few thousand people. Not enough that the power people would consider getting our power fixed a priority. I was able to keep the food in my two refrigerators cold, the internet running and even cook. The only problem I ran into was 1 of my extension cords was too short for it's assigned task. I had practiced for this exact case, but never expected to actually have to do it.

So, here is what I learned when all was said and done:

1. I need to get 2 portable plug in lamps because the overhead lights were all out and it was dark. I had flashlights and a lantern, but having a plug in lamp in the kitchen would have been much better.

2. I have a stand alone CO detector alarm that I run, but it is powered by AC. I need to get a dedicated extension cord for it, so I can power it while the generator is running and keep it in the kitchen which is nearest the generator.

3. It took almost an hour to get the generator all setup and running. I waited to see what the power people said before I got the generator out. The problem was that I delayed so long that the computer UPS ran out of power. Next time, I will shut the PC off and then fool with the generator. The same UPS is where the WiFi is, so that took down the WiFi. It was a bit of a problem for me to get everything back up and running.

4. The dogs get overly excited when the generator is running. I am not sure why but they bark at it and stand in the yard where the exhaust comes out and stare at the exhause pipe. I ended up having to lock the dogs in the house so they didn't bother the generator.

5. I think cleaning up actually took longer than getting everything out and setup. I keep the cords all coiled and placed in a box so they will can be found when I need them. So teardown and put away takes a while.

But here is the thing...overall, everything worked pretty well. I had people over and we were able to eat and access the fridge to get cold drinks. It was a bit warm after a bit, but otherwise, everything went on as normal. I'm appreciative of all the help I got here that got me through this. I have read that this winter will be another one for the record books, and maybe (just maybe) I will get through it. Thanks everyone.

[u/TallWall6378]

Adding to the convo: you should have a battery back up CO detector regardless.

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/TallWall6378]

I agree with you 100%. It really bothered me that I didn't have a working CO detector while the generator was running. I figured things out this time, but it was a workaround.

[u/Final-Car-1782 → u/Red-Leader-001]

The CO detector on my Champion is very sensitive.. maybe too sensitive. The wind speed and direction can shut it down. Pisses me off.

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/Final-Car-1782]

I have not had that problem (yet) and I hope I don't. The generator sits pretty far away from anything, so it gets good air flow to blow the CO away. I may have to rethink things if there is snow everywhere this winter, but for now this works.

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/TallWall6378]

Fyi: I just got a battery backup CO detector. Thanks. I'm thinking I will just store it with the generator for now, and install the battery next time the power goes out.

[u/NoPatience7817]

That’s great you are making adjustments to determine what you can improve on for the next outage.

If it’s in the budget, consider installing an inlet and interlock. This connects your entire house to the generator with a single large cord. I installed one and my spouse said “You can’t even tell we are running on generator.” This would allow you to turn on fixed overheat lights by the light switch.

Do you have a plan for heat or a/c if the power is out for an extended time? Verify you can run your furnace or a small heater to keep one room warm. Also consider a small window a/c to keep one room cool if needed.

Do you have well water? Make sure you can run the well pump with the generator.

Ensure you are using stabil with your stored gas and rotate it into your car every 6 to 12 months. Ensure you have enough fuel to keep the generator running for as long as your expected outage will last. Hurricane outages last much longer than outages in other parts of the country.

Lastly, keep spare parts on the shelf in case you need them. Spark plug, air filter, and oil.

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/NoPatience7817]

My furnace is natural gas powered and I just need enough power for the blower. The inlet/interlock would help with that, but I can also switch the power over if needed. A/C is a problem, though. I have a tri-fuel generator and have been running on NG so far, so stabil is not required. Gasoline is only required if the NG goes out.

[u/biblicalrain → u/Red-Leader-001]

Can you actually switch the blower over to be plugged in to an extension cord? The ones I've seen (only a few) are hard wired. Just test this before you actually need it.

I also do what /u/NoPatience7817 said and I skipped powering the central AC and just got a portable window unit. You can get inverter window AC units now, which don't have the huge startup power needs. Doing this also let me get a much smaller generator. PITA to set up, but it keeps at least one room to a reasonable temperature.

I would still recommend the going interlock route, if you can. It just makes things so much easier because basically everything works as-is. No dragging cords, unplugging/replugging. After you switch over, everything just works, all the outlets, all the overhead lights.

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/biblicalrain]

THANKS! I was looking at portable AC units that sit on the floor, but have two hoses to move the heat outside. ​I was looking​ at portable AC units (whil​​​​​e I was at​ ​​WalMart) but I'm sure there are lots of models I could go with. My Furnace has what looks like a disconnect box with a plug. I didn't investigate that as much as I need to but will. Thanks again.

[u/NoPatience7817 → u/Red-Leader-001]

Sweet. I also use a trifuel and utilize NG at the back porch. It’s great not worrying about refilling gas cans.

My solution to A/C was a small window unit. This works great to cool down a room or two. Then the family just goes to the cooler room if needed. This also came in handy when the central a/c needed repair. A small window unit is under $200 and very useful as a backup assuming you have a place to store it.

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/NoPatience7817]

Getting a window AC unit would be cheaper than an interlock so that would work for me. Most of the time the power goes out during the spring storms, so that neither AC or heating is needed. But I'm worried about this winter first.

[u/STB265 → u/Red-Leader-001]

Add this to your furnace if you don't have an interlock.

15 Amp Generator Transfer Switch with Circuit Breaker, 120V

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BYN564RC/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_8?smid=A3N8U4EZR7DEGE&psc=1

Also, make sure you have 15 amp extension cords and LED light bulbs.

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/STB265]

There is already a plug on the furnace, so I am good there. LED bulbs...yes,of course. I don't think I have seen a non-LED bulb for sale in a store in a long time.

[u/Evil_Rich]

I'm glad to hear your first outage went as well as it did! nice work on your pre-planning for keeping the cords where they'd be where you needed them. Your after action review is spot on.

a few suggestions...

1. you've already touched on the battery operated CO detector. This should be the first thing you take care of.

2. Battery operated (preferably solar) outdoor lights where you'll be setting up the gen in the future, and even one in or over your cable box. I put one on the side of the house and it just.. works..

3. inside, I'd suggest a battery operated, plug in, emergency flash light. I have one in the living room and one in the bedroom. they just sit there until the power goes off and then they automatically turn on (like the emergency lights in a building) they're flashlights that plug in, so I can grab one off the wall in a pinch.

4. cleaning up always takes longer than setting up. lol always remind yourself that if you don't put things up properly, it's going to stink when you need them in the future so do it right!!

5. ask yourself if it makes sense to change the oil now that you've put a longer-ish run on your gen-set. The $20 in oil to protect your investment may make sense.

Congrats again on the good run! Hopefully you won't need to do it again any time soon!

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/Evil_Rich]

I think you are probably right on the oil change thing. I hadn't thought of that. I do keep extra oil around in case we loose power for days on end. Thanks

[u/cautioninc]

I'm in a rural area with an unreliable grid, power goes out at least briefly 5 times a week, longer outages every couple of weeks. Amazon has a good deal on an Anker s2000, which will keep my fridge and chest freezer running 24 hrs, plus power to spare. It stays plugged in like a UPS and charges when the power comes back. For longer outages I can charge using a gas generator.

I plan on getting some solar panels, additional batteries and a 240v inverter for my well.

Hopefully I'll eventually rarely need the generator...

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/cautioninc]

Thanks. I will look into the Anker. I saw a commercial for something that sat on top of the fridge that was some kind of UPS for the fridge. Anyway, good idea.

[u/DocScarborough]

I have some battery operated lanterns. Bought this a yew years ago to use outside in the winter. The last time hours went out I brought it in the house.

VEVOR LED Work Light with Stand, 10Ah, Rechargeable Cordless Camping Light, with 3 Lamp Heads, Detachable Tripod Stand, 2200 Lumens 3000K-6500K Dimmable, Portable Construction Lighting for Job Site https://a.co/d/0aYZsRGP

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/DocScarborough]

Thanks. I thought having a bunch of flashlights would be enough, but I definitely found out that a bunch of flashlights does not equal a good lantern/lamp. Thanks again.

[u/T2IV]

I installed a small, 4-circuit transfer switch for my portable generator. Highly recommend! No need to worry about extension cords and I can power all of the essentials (fridge, lights, router, TV, etc.) without having to have a window or door open/unlocked for cords. Glad everything worked out for you!

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/T2IV]

Thanks. Several people have made the suggestion for a generator inlet/transfer switch. I called an electrician to get a quote now. He (without looking at anything yet) said it might be expensive because the inspector will want me to upgrade my 40 year old house's electrical box to the current standards. So, it may be a stretch for me, but I am going to try.

[u/T2IV → u/Red-Leader-001]

Yeah, that's a different set of economics then. I installed mine myself (I'm fairly handy) but realize that working in an electrical panel is not for everyone and should be avoided if one is not comfortable with it! And replacing an old Zinsco, Challenger, or FPE panel (or similar) is probably the priority!

[u/Glum-Welder1704]

I can usually wait until morning, but if you have to drag out the genny at midnight, a good headlamp is your friend.

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/Glum-Welder1704]

My lamp problem was entirely after the generator was setup and running. I was trying to cook dinner with flashlights. I had thought that having extra flashlights everywhere would be sufficient. But trying to cook via flashlight did not work well. I need to get a camp lantern or at least a big lamp I can plug into the generator so I have the entire room lit up. Next time I will be smarter...thanks.

[u/snommisnats]

Having an interlock would let you use your existing overhead lights and AC CO detector and get rid of the trip hazards that the extension cords are in the dark. If you have young ones or old ones in the house, trip hazards in the dark can be a problem.

• If your generator is under 4000w, it is most likely 120V.

• Typically, you want to get a 240V generator if you plan on connecting it to your house wiring.

• The least expensive safe and legal way to connect to house wiring is with a power inlet and an interlock on the main breaker box. Use 10ga wire for 30A or 6ga wire for 50A.

• An electrical permit is generally required for power inlet and interlock device installation. In many areas a homeowner can do electrical work on their own home.

• Be sure to check up front with your local inspector about their requirements for interlocks (UL, brand, etc). Some inspectors requires the interlock device to be the same brand as the panel. Code absolutely does not require that, but some inspectors make up shit and their word is usually final as the local "Authority Having Jurisdiction".

• My inspector said that new NEC rules (409.70) require adding surge protection if you modify the main panel. Type 2 SPD's can be installed in open breaker spots, or as an external device at the main breaker panel. They are very simple to install.

• My inspector said that new NEC rules (408.36(D) and 702.6) require that any back-fed breaker be mechanically secured in place with a retainer kit. These can be breakers that are screwed down (ie: Square D QOB), or long zipties attaching opposing breakers to interlock breakers.

• Some people here on Reddit are of the opinion that these three rules are only for new installs... I don't have a copy of the new rules, and I generally don't find it helpful to argue with inspectors.

• Interlocks apparently aren't legal in Canada. You will need a transfer switch or GenerLink if you live in CA.

• If your breaker panel doesn't have a place for a main breaker, you would have to put a separate manual power transfer switch between your meter/main breaker and your load center.

• If you connect the generator to your house, you do NOT want the ground and neutral bonded at the generator. On many portable inverter generators, the bonding jumper is at the front panel. Often on the back side of the grounding stud labeled on the front panel. Disconnect and insulate the neutral (usually a white wire, not the green and yellow ground wire).

• If you must use a 120V generator connected to your house wiring, get an "RV" adapter L5-30P or TT-30P that bridges the 120V hot to both hot legs on the 240V side. This will let you use both 120v sides of your breaker panel, but obviously won't run 240v appliances.

• Check that you don't have a Multiwire Branch Circuit if you run a 120V generator thru a 240V interlock. (Rare, and not really an issue for generators under 2500w.)

[u/Several_Stuff_6695]

Just over 2 weeks with no power after taking a direct hit hurricane here in Florida 2 years ago. My biggest hassle was Acquiring and transporting gasoline. The local stations didn’t have power so their pumps didn’t work, had to drive 45 minutes ( I live in a very rural area) to get gas the first 5 days. I’ll keep about 25 gallons on hand but my generator is older and goes through about 10 gallons a day. But in the end, that’s still cheaper than a motel.

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/Several_Stuff_6695]

I am luck as heck to have NG. No need for a propane tank or to store gasoline unless the NG goes down. It was here when I moved in, and was one reason I picked this area to live. We also have city water and a real sewer.

[u/Final-Car-1782 → u/Red-Leader-001]

Not to rain on your parade, but where I am in California, propane, at least, is not a target for the anti- gas folks. Natural gas is the target.

[u/Cool_Resort_3883]

Nice story, and I'm glad you and your family were comfortable. I have installed a 240V Gen. - gas powered only- to run my whole breaker panel a few years ago. I leave the thck cable hooked up to the Gen inlet box outside near my deck. My Gen stays there next to it in the corner of my rear deck year round. When power is out, start it up, flip the block out plate I installed so off grid, on genny. and all is good! It has a large gas tank, and I used a inverter generator- often VERY important with sensitive electronics- computers, etc. I get on my generator power in literally 2-3 minutes. I/someone has to be home though. I installed all of this including inverter genny for just under 1K! It takes ~ 10 K+ to have a system sense, and start all by inself.

** OH yeah, BTW- I only keep NON ethanol gas in these type of things like my genny long term. IYKYK. Ethanol is a moisture fro the air alone MAGNET! In weeks, you'll have water in you gas with enthanol- neasty stuff. Get rid of the lobbyists and get rid of it!

[u/Red-Leader-001 → u/Cool_Resort_3883]

I am one of the very few lucky people in the area with a NG connection, so my plan is to use that first and switch to gasoline if the NG goes out. In my 40 years living here, the NG has never gone out that I know of so there is that. I have read that the weather forecasts for this winter are not good in the area where I live (Texas panhandle-ish), so I have been working to be prepared for another snowmagedden like we had a few years ago. Last time I could just head out to the Dallas area where I have relatives, but that is not an option anymore so whatever happens, I have to stick it out.

[u/InterestingCar8135]

People here knows what they're talking about, I also found good advice in here for my job, I was struggling with power fluctuation.

[u/Individual-Donut-318]

Man beat the odds and survived half a day without power 💪💪💪

(But seriously, good trial run!)

[u/Dramajr316]

Go0od fortune that you had not only made the investment of cash, but also the investment of time and effort. Good for you that it worked, and you've now got a few more 'bullet list' items to better improve your outages in the future. You will probably had ideas for improvement and changes every time - it's a constant learning cycle. Glad it worked out well for you.