Generator backup?

codeman671 · 04-16-2007, 07:49 PM

I want to install a generator for backup power this season at the island and need some advice on which way to go. I have come up with three options:

1. I have a nice Honda 5000 watt portable now which I could install a genset and use but am concerned if it will be big enough. I need to run my water pump (lake feed submersed), electric water heater, fridge, mini fridge and a bunch of lights/outlets. I see the pluses as being that I already own it, gas is cheap compared to propane on an island, and the remaining setup would not cost much. Maybe not big enough? Also the possibility of it not starting when needed?

2. I could go with a permanent installed propane powered home system. These are quiet, reliable, and could easily provide more than enough power. I am concerned about gas consumption mainly, it looks like they burn 2-3 gallons of LPG per hour, and being that our gas costs us $110 a 100lb (somewhere in the vicinity of 23-25 gallons) bottle delivered the costs to run it could be steep, especially for long periods of time.

3. Sell the 5000 watt Honda, buy a bigger gas powered unit and install a genset. Extra expense, but more than enough power possible and ease of getting fuel. Not instant on though, you still also run the possibility of it not starting after sitting.

Any thoughts from those that have looked into or done this already?

04-16-2007, 07:49 PM	#1
codeman671 Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Posts: 3,546 Thanks: 222 Thanked 829 Times in 500 Posts	Generator backup? I want to install a generator for backup power this season at the island and need some advice on which way to go. I have come up with three options: 1. I have a nice Honda 5000 watt portable now which I could install a genset and use but am concerned if it will be big enough. I need to run my water pump (lake feed submersed), electric water heater, fridge, mini fridge and a bunch of lights/outlets. I see the pluses as being that I already own it, gas is cheap compared to propane on an island, and the remaining setup would not cost much. Maybe not big enough? Also the possibility of it not starting when needed? 2. I could go with a permanent installed propane powered home system. These are quiet, reliable, and could easily provide more than enough power. I am concerned about gas consumption mainly, it looks like they burn 2-3 gallons of LPG per hour, and being that our gas costs us $110 a 100lb (somewhere in the vicinity of 23-25 gallons) bottle delivered the costs to run it could be steep, especially for long periods of time. 3. Sell the 5000 watt Honda, buy a bigger gas powered unit and install a genset. Extra expense, but more than enough power possible and ease of getting fuel. Not instant on though, you still also run the possibility of it not starting after sitting. Any thoughts from those that have looked into or done this already?