Who knew?

[bumblebee]

Why don't you install a gas or propane 10K or 15K generator to power your shop when you are actually needing the power and also to run your house when power goes down?

Unless you are going to be spending 6 or 8 hours every day running the equipment, set up your own power supply

When I bought a portable building for my place, I built a small generator using a propane powered Honda 340 motor and car alternators. I run 12 volt for lights and use power inverters to run small tools when I need them. I have a couple of marine batteries I use to run the lights when I will be in and out so I don't have to run the motor.

I found a design for running/storing power with solar panels and just used the generator instead.

[acalliste]

I bet that comes in handy during hurricane season.

[bumblebee]

Originally Posted by acalliste

I bet that comes in handy during hurricane season.

After losing everything we had in Andrew, we are completely ready. We have 4 portable generators, 3 water purifier systems and civilian versions of MRE's that will feed 8 people for 30 days. I rewired my well and pump that if my house is still standing, I can run my well off my generator and have clean water...which is the most crucial issue after a disaster...think New Orleans.

I have been a popular mechanics/science subscriber for over 30 years and I found the plans to build a "lawn mower" generator from an old issue. I had an old propane powered floor buffing/stripping machine that had a Honda 340 motor. I went to a salvage yard and bought a couple of alternators.

I found the plans for a solar powered shed in a recent issue. It showed the wiring and equipment setup to run a small shed from a solar panel. I substituted the generator for the solar panel. I can run the lights and small tools for a couple of hours without the motor running.

Because it is a portable and I didn't hook up to "city power or water" I avoided a bunch of hassles dealing with the County and permits and tax basis and that stuff.

With the government bent on controlling everything, including our thermostats, check out the new "Smart Meters" utilities want to install, I am working on alternative power generation and use the public utility as back up