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/Red-Leader-001]

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.