Quote:
Originally Posted by Rattlesnake Guy
When we use our generator, I always keep a light on which allows me to gauge how the load sharing is doing. ... But after writing this it occurs to me that I should just plug my multi meter into an outlet to keep an eye on the voltage level. Duh.  |
I suggest buying a "Kill-a-Watt" electric meter, under $30. It will show you your power consumption (watts), both instantaneous and long-term. If (for example) it shows that you're using 1200 watts, then you know that you can add the 300 watt refrigerator and still have some spare.
After Hurricane Irene, I purhcased a Honda eu2000i. It's not enough to run the whole house, but if you don't mind juggling occasionally, it's fantastic. For example, my refrigerator can easily keep food frozen for 8 hours if I don't open the door. It can keep the food frozen for 3-4 hours of normal use. When I wake up, I plug-in the refrigerator, coffee pot, and heating system. By 10 am, I've switched the generator to the computer/monitor/wifi/television for a few hours. Then it's back to the refrigerator/heating system for a couple of hours, etc. All the while, 3-5 florescent lights consume a trickle of power.
Luckily, I have a gas stove (matches needed) and a gas hot-water heater (no electricity needed). If you're stove is electric, I'd advise getting a camping stove.