I would like to hear which generator manufacturers certify their generators are Y2K ok. I know there are electronic boards in every generator that regulate the power generated, are they vulnerable to this failure??

-- Anonymous, September 05, 1998

Answers

I would recommend that anyone with such a question contact the manufacturer of their generator. If you haven't yet bought one, ask the question when you buy it. Chances are the dealer won't know, so again, you'll have to call customer service for the mfg and find out.

That being said, most garden variety personal generators have mechanical governors that maintain speed of the generator (usually 3600 rpm) under varying loads. There's little (if any)electronic controls until you start hitting the high end generators. Refer to the previous message in this discussion group for some good generator FAQ links. The bottom line - for a "Y2k insurance" personal generator, use the KISS principal - keep it simple. There's really no need for electronic ignition (unless you're physically unable to pull a rope starter) or any other whistles and bells except for automatic low oil and high temp shutdowns.

My $.02. Your opinions and milage may vary. ;-)

-- Anonymous, September 05, 1998

Rick, thanks for the lead on that generator report. It was very helpful.

Steve Tomczak

-- Anonymous, September 08, 1998

I have been searching in the realm of backup/standby power generators for some time now, and have not yet run into this as an issue. Even those that use an electronic governor to maintain engine speeds at varying loads are not a 'date-sensitive' issue. For anyone interested, I have found about 3 or 4 good firms who make good products; email me. Another item I think is important, all of us computer users are AC power reliant; any local PG's which decide to do arbitrary testing are going to simply do so with no public warning. Do yourself a small favor if you can afford it: buy a small UPS for your system. I recommend, well, email me.

-- Anonymous, September 08, 1998

Our company is routinely being asked this question. Even with the most sophisticated controls that we put on our systems. All units are Y2K certified, I feel that this is the same for most of our competition. The one fall out of the Y2K problem is the number of businesses and residents that are going independent from the Grid, we routinely receive inquiries from homeowners for this reason that a year ago was unheard of. The funny part about it is that lots of small businesses and larger homeowners can produce their own power cheaper than from their local utility.

http://www.powerpac.com/generator.html

-- Anonymous, October 06, 1998