What Do You Think Of This Generator?
- Thread starter Reed639
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swannyson7
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With generators, like most things, you get what you pay for. The harbor frieght generators work fine, but have been known to have startup issues as they get older. They're also very loud, but they'll give you the juice to keep your reef alive, and that's what's important. If you're in an area where you lose power often, I'd save up your money and get a larger generator, and prefereably a more reliable brand.
800 watts wont power more than a 45 gallon with t5s, get a nice briggs and stratton 5500 watt for 800 bucks at HD.
I defenitly agree.....
swannyson7
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While it's certainly a risk, a 2-6 hour power outtage is unlikely to do much damage to your tank if you're prepared, unless it's the dead of winter and the temp drops drastically in the tank. I'd buy a couple battery powered air pumps to hold you over until you can afford a bigger/better generator. If you buy a slightly larger generator, it won't cost that much more than a small one and it will give you the option of backfeeding into a 220 line and powering several appliances. Just think how much you'll be able to tick off the neighbors by putting a porch light on when the power goes out. It almost makes it worth spending the extra money!
swannyson7
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Over a 2-6 hour power outtage the tank temperature won't drop much. Even if it does drop, it will be slow enough that it shouldn't cause many issues. During an extended outtage, you can wrap the tank with blankets and assuming the house temp doesn't drop too low, the tank won't either. The thermodynamic properties of water are such that the water temp will drop much slower than air, so even if the house gets down to 50 degrees in 6 hours, the tank will likely stay above 70.
swannyson7
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Pretty much any battery powered pumps will work. I believe the ones I have are made by Azoo, but there are a bunch of different ones.
as for wrapping the tanks look into the thermal blankets they sell for emergency supplies. basically they are just mylar and cost about 2 bucks each. buy a couple and make a tank cover BEFORE you need it and they fold small so store it under the tank. if you get the tank wrapped somewhat quickly after the power goes out you will hold temp in the safe zone for 12+ hours without having to worry about a heater. and you don't have to worry about lights for 3 days at least.
-Logzor
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Those cheap generators are going to be super-loud. I went with the Honda EU2000 to power my entire setup. Expensive....but it's quiet and reliable.
