September 2007
The small, gasoline-powered portable generator is the classic ad hoc response to a major power outage. Yet it may be the homeowner's worst possible choice. Able to provide only enough output for a few lights and a refrigerator, gas-powered generators need frequent refueling and make a lot of noise. Of even more concern is the fact that in a storm situation, portable generators often kill a few people, either by carbon monoxide poisoning or by electrocution. What's more, gasoline spills occasionally cause structure fires and serious burns, and if the do-it-yourself user decides to get creative and wire the generator directly into a home circuit, a generator set can "back-feed" the utility, sending lethal voltage to utility workers repairing lines. Our Staff Report looks at the available alternatives to portable generators and guides you in selecting the right size, switch, and wiring options for your needs.
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Staff Report: Blackout Power Solutions In standby generator systems, you get what you pay for For Americans in the 21st century, it's hard to imagine life without electric power. We take for granted that our lights, microwaves, air conditioners, and televisions will always work for us at the flick of a switch. But should a hurricane hit the community, we would instantly be plunged back into the 1800s — or some post-apocalyptic future where people have to piece their lives together from the remnants of modern civilization. Tired, hot, and frustrated, citizens would wait in line for hours to
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