How do I find out how big a generator I need? which makes are best? gas or diesel? what is shelf life of gas-diesel fuel?what foods do you sugest--for storing--how long will Y2K last?--I THANK for yuor help--JIM

-- Anonymous, September 01, 1998

Answers

Honda motor cycle shop sells gen. CK. how many amps you need then you will know what to buy.

-- Anonymous, September 04, 1998

I have been researching the matter of standby power generation for some time now. There is a lot of info out there on this matter, but in a nutshell, I'll address the matters asked. (1) How big? First, determine exactly what you absolutely cannot(or will not) live without if your power supply fails. Look at the data plate or specifications for the device in amps and add them up. As a 'buffer', I doubled my figure. The first stage, deciding, is important. You don't want to over-buy, neither underbuy: standby power generation sets are expensive. I am looking first for used from a known source, then new. Now, if one of those items you wish to run is a PC, this creates further problems, mostly technical. You can email me and I'll pass this on. (2) Manufacturers? Best? At best, somewhat relative. I have scoured the marketplace and found these to be my top picks: a: Cummins-Onan b: Honda c: Kohler. I am not affiliated with any of the firms whatsoever and own no stock in them either: I'm not here to PR for them, but all three have solid reputations. The Cummins-Onan gensets just powered the world record-breaking circumnavigation of the earth on board the Cable and Wireless Adventurer; check out their site. (3) Gasoline or Diesel? Pretty much similar to buying a vehicle like this: Diesel costs more up front, but there are advantages. First, they are more efficient. Secondly, diesel fuel does not evaporate or degrade nearly as fast as gasoline. You will have to cycle your fuel: gasoline at no more than every 3 months, diesel at around a year. (4) For the balance of your inquiry, and on other matters of Y2K interest, start with garynorth.com. I hope this helps. EMail me if I can assist further.

-- Anonymous, September 08, 1998

I have a gasoline generator, but I have found websites about producing biodiesel fuel (fuel from animal or vegetable oils), which could be used in a diesel generator or any other diesel engine. Search for biodiesel to find info. Also, there is a new type of engine that supposedly will run on vegetable oils (corn oil, peanut oil, etc.) directly. One of those could be incorporated into a generator. We may have problems for a long time, so solar panels and storage batteries would be a good option. You can run a few items forever for the same investment as a generator. Also, if there is flowing water nearby or a lot of wind in the area, those could be used for power generation. I hear that diesel fuel lasts longer in storage than gasoline, even if you use the Sta-Bil product that Wal-Mart, etc., sells.

-- Anonymous, September 10, 1998

The only problem with generators is gas or need for it. If you run out then what, if the power goes down you won't be able to pump it. We just went through Hurricane Georges down here in the Keys, gas in generators goes quickly. I pity the people in colder climates, keeping warm will be a real issue, generators won't help much. Solar is a good thought for cooking. I found several web sites last night on making your own solar stove out of cardboard boxes, aluminum, foil and a pane of glass. Check it out(http://www.accessone.com/~sbcn/wallovn1.htm)or (http://www.accessone.com/sbcn/minimum.htm) Hope this helps some one, I know I'll be using it.

-- Anonymous, October 15, 1998