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prepmeister ![]() Valued Member ![]() Joined: March 28 2006 Status: Offline Points: 32 |
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I found what looks to be a fairly fast small battery charger that accomadates C's an D's NiMH batteries in about 2-5 hours that would probably be good if you need these type of batteries. Most NiMH 15 minute chargers are only for AA/AAA batteries. Could possibly hookup to an inverter if needed. It is a bit pricey though. This might be good for those rainy days that solar battery chargers fail you.
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2ifbyC ![]() Adviser Group ![]() Joined: March 30 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 533 |
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We have been discussing the merits, uses and selection of generators, inverters, chargers and batteries. Now I would like to introduce the subject of DC power adapters. This allows you to run some devices without using an inverter. First, many of our smaller devices are powered by an AC (Alternating Current) adapter that plugs into the wall outlet and provides DC (Direct Current) voltage, normally 3-12 VDC. Any device with a DC power jack can be powered by a battery and Universal DC Adapter, saving your AA/AAA/etc. batteries for when you are out and about. What you need: 12 VDC battery Universal DC adapter – i.e. http://www.laptoptravel.com/Product.aspx?ID=2019 . This adapter comes with a set of the most common connection adapters and is 3-12 VDC selectable. Power Adapter with Battery Clips - http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10001&&storeId=10001&langId=-1&productId=189015&ref=81902 . Determine the proper voltage by looking at the device data label or the AC adapter. Select the proper voltage on the universal DC adapter. Determine which plug adapter to use for your device. Clip the female adapter battery clips to the 12 VDC battery observing proper polarity. Plug the male DC adapter into the female adapter. Now you’re good to go. It’s easier to do than to describe. Maybe this will help: Edited by 2ifbyC - April 15 2006 at 8:52am |
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Survival does have an 'I'!
Dodging 'canes on Florida's central Gulf Coast |
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prepmeister ![]() Valued Member ![]() Joined: March 28 2006 Status: Offline Points: 32 |
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2ifbyC,
You must have electricity in your blood. You are awesome! What a great idea. I'll be buying these items as well. It really gives you more flexibility to have this setup as well for portable electronics. Thanks for teaching me this. Who knows, your knowledge could end up making a big difference for my family. I really appeciate it.
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2ifbyC ![]() Adviser Group ![]() Joined: March 30 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 533 |
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Aw shucks... Just trying to ante up on all the great info I've retrieved from the rest of ya'll.
I am a gadget guy. During our 'canes down here I have a TV, shortwave radio, police scanner and computer going just 'bout 24/7. Y2K was my first attempt at 'being prepared'. I still have and use items that come in very handy when the lights go out.
I do have an electronic background but that just allowed me to buy my gadgets!
![]() Somewhere on this site I've stated that I'm a lazy 13 year old trapped in a 59 year old bod. So I'm always looking for a way to 'do it better, do it cheaper'.
Have fun!
ETA On those DC adapters, just remember that you will need one for each of your electronics. You can buy these to expand you capability: http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062269&cp=2032056.2032136.2032154&pg=2&parentPage=family Edited by 2ifbyC - April 15 2006 at 3:26pm |
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Survival does have an 'I'!
Dodging 'canes on Florida's central Gulf Coast |
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Thanks to all for the power inverter idea. I bought a 700? and a deep cycle marine battery yesterday. Haven't tried it out yet. Can you tell me how many hours of power we can expect from the battery? Really just planning to cook on a single burner appliance and maybe a bit of tv - small one just 9". And, is there a way to recharge the battery without electrical power?
Thanks!
s
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2ifbyC ![]() Adviser Group ![]() Joined: March 30 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 533 |
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sand,
Not knowing your battery reserve capacity in Amp Hours, I can't give you a definitive answer. But here is the simplfied Cliff notes version:
(xAmps + yAmps + zAmps) x time in hours = Amp Hours (2A+3A+4A) x 5 hrs = AH 9A x 5 = 45AH 450 AH reserve capacity battery / 45AH = 10 hours Keep in mind that the inverter itself comsumes power. So the total will be a little less than the 10 hours above.
You must determine how much power your single burner appliance requires. Chances are that the appliance will require much more wattage than your inverter can supply. Plus any inverter is a POOR device for any type of heating application. I would highly recommend using a fuel type stove.
As for the TV, if it is rated for a typical 100-150 watts with the above 450 AH battery you would be good for 15-20 hours. Your smaller TV would probably run longer.
HINT: LCD TVs require much less power than one with a picture tube (CRT) of the same size.
![]() The only way to recharge a battery without electrical service would be a $olar panel $y$tem (notice the $$$).
![]() Here is a terrific site for those with inverter questions: http://www.donrowe.com/inverters/inverter_faq.html#how_long . There are wattage charts, formulas, etc.
![]() Let me know if you have any other questions. Take care and have fun!
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Survival does have an 'I'!
Dodging 'canes on Florida's central Gulf Coast |
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Using one deep cycle battery on a range top will kill it in a matter of minutes.
I had two deep cycle golf cart batteries hooked together, hooked up my inverter (3000 watt), plugged in my vaccume cleaner..... it lasted for about 15 minutes. And a range top uses a lot more power.
AS 2yfbic said, unless your rich, don't waste money on solar panels. Buy a small generator and stock up on gas.
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Breadbox oven:
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dundeels01 ![]() V.I.P. Member ![]() Joined: April 14 2006 Status: Offline Points: 8 |
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Sorry for the length of this post, but I found this situation to be very educational to myself and my parents. So my folks had a small wake up call last night as to why I encouraged them to get a backup generator for their house. They got a very nice 7KW Honda and got it wired into the house(by an electrician) via a Gen Tran transfer switch. We also had a custom made 50' 10/4 cable made so they can keep it clear of the house for carbon monoxide concerns. They live in a hurricane zone, so this large expense was justifiable. Funny thing is that Dad had me "pickle" the engine at the end of last year's hurricane season so that he wouldn't have to start it every month as reccomended. When I pickled it, I "fogged" the engine with Bombardier Storage Oil, stabilized the fuel, drained the carb, placed the battery on a tender, and all that other good stuff so that my father would not have to deal with the generator on a regular basis.
Last night the power went out for about 10 hours and it was time for him to fire it up. Unfortunately, because I mummified this generator and my father didn't have to use it on a regular basis, he was not comfortable using it at all. So this whole system went unused when they could have really benefited from their purchase. It had basically become just another tool in the garage that sits in the corner. They have 15- 5 gallon gas cans that were all empty. Soooo, the bottom line here was that they were "ready" but they were not really ready at all.
Fortunately for my parents, I had left my smaller EU2000is Honda at their house and they were comforatble using that for the computer, satellite tv, and a couple of lights. They just ran the extension cords into the house and plugged directly into the generator. This worked fine, and luckily, I had it fully gassed up(1 gallon tank runs 15 hrs!). After talking them through the process on the cell phone, they were back in business. This finally made them realize the importance of having fuel and being very comfortable and knowledgable about running a generator.
The next time that I get down there, in the very near future, I'm going to go through Generator 101 with them again. It really is something that most people should review on a somewhat regular basis, it probably would not hurt to actually perform a test run either if you have never done so in the past. Many people take for granted that they will be able to run these things, but when it comes down to it, it is often not that easy or as safe as one would think. That's why you always hear of the carbon monoxide deaths of home owners and electrocutions of utility workers when these things are not used properly. The only advice that I can give from my parents experience last night, is it is extremely important to be familiar with your equipment and know how to use it because you never know when you just might actually need it.
Edited by dundeels01 - April 27 2006 at 11:31am |
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You can buy regular sized light bulbs in 12 volt. By using a lamp
or two and rewiring to a car battery, which is easily rechargable, you
can light the place for lots of hours. Buy real cheap 16 or 18 gauge
extension cords and strip the ends down to use.
I'm buying an large tractor battery with more reserve amps to use. Be careful to set it outside as acid gas is not good to breathe and never bring inside to recharge. Be careful that windows are properly covered when lighting at night so prying eyes can't see you have lights. |
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40acrediesel ![]() V.I.P. Member ![]() ![]() Joined: March 11 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 43 |
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Please be sure to fuse or use a 12VDC rated circuit breaker on any of these hotwiring projects. Short-circuiting an automotive battery can have explosive results.
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40acrediesel ![]() V.I.P. Member ![]() ![]() Joined: March 11 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 43 |
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Also, be sure to calculated required amps. Low voltage bulbs require high current to make wattage( V = I x R and P = I squared R). A 25 watt bulb would take about 2 amps of current. A string of 5 bulbs would require 10 amps. 18 gauge wire is only good for about 5 - 7 amps, 16 gauge is only good for 10 amps. 14 gauge is good for 15 amps, 12 gauge for 20. Be sure the fuse/breaker is coodinated with the wire, else you will make the wire into your fuse & have a meltdown/fire.
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Thanks for clarification 40. In my head I was only figuring on a couple
bulbs. You will find standed wire will carry a little more that
single wire though.
I also forgot to clarify to make sure battery connections are tight. Don't just wind the wire around the terminal. Marine terminal adapters should be crimped securely on the wire. |
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maryk ![]() V.I.P. Member ![]() ![]() Joined: February 25 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 168 |
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For heat this winter My family has made one of these |
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MAJDAD ![]() V.I.P. Member ![]() ![]() Joined: March 19 2006 Status: Offline Points: 196 |
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2ifbyC:
You seem to be the brightest one here on this subject. I want to set up solar panels to keep 2 or 3 12 volt batteries charged. I want to run a small (9" AC/DC) TV and a CB Radio on it. What size panel would you recommend and what site. What hoops do I need to jump though to make it happen.
I also want to set up to recharge D cells, 123 cell (photo batteries) and AA batteries all on solar ( 36 D Cells 6 123 3 Volt and 30 AA batteries) again what size panel would you recommend and how would I set that up.
Thank you for all your help
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Major Dad hopes you are all alive and well and looking out for each other
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2ifbyC ![]() Adviser Group ![]() Joined: March 30 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 533 |
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MAJDAD,
Sorry, when it comes to solar power my 'wattage' dims. The co$t has prevented me from jumping in with both feet. I did read that the minimum panel wattage for MAINTAINING (read trickle charge) a 12VDC battery charge is 15 watts.
A 15 watter should do fine for the smaller batts with the appropriate charger/
As to the TV and CB, get a proper voltage AC/DC adapter(s) or add up the wattage and use an inverter. Both would be powered by a 12 VDC batt. That way you're not at the mercy of the sun as with a direct-power solar panel. Note that you will use more wattage when you transmit on the CB. 'Receive only' comsumes very little power.
My best recommendation is to Google solar panels and if you have any questions afterwards please feel free to contact me. There is a ton of info out there.
Good luck!
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Survival does have an 'I'!
Dodging 'canes on Florida's central Gulf Coast |
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gilmor ![]() V.I.P. Member ![]() Joined: April 10 2006 Status: Offline Points: 81 |
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Recently read / heard that U.S. oil refineries CANNOT operate with 30% of employees off. . . These plants produce our gasoline, but also the fuels that run alot of our power plants. Almost 20% of U.S. electricity is produced by nuclear power. Deregulation has forced all power companies to run “lean and mean”. I would think that like an oil refinery, a nuclear power plant could not operate with 30% of it’s work force off. Both nuke fueled power plants and refineries are NOT “light switch operations”. . . Both MUST be slowly shut down and slowly restarted. . . Coal, natural gas and oil powered electrical generating plants are known as “peaker’s” within the industry and are especially used to quickly reach maximum output on hot (A/C usage) days. . . just some thoughts, Gilmore |
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Generator gas consumption:
approx. 1 gallon for 8 hours at 1 KW load (Honda EU-2000i) So, 8 KWH/gal. Operating for 2 hours/day for 4 days would use about 1 gallon of gas. That's about 15 gallons/month. It's a LOT of gas to be storing! |
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Solar power:
Cost of panels is about $3/Watt. Panels need to be steered to track the sun for maximum output. Above 40 degrees North, panels are less useful. Larger panel area needed. A regulator is needed for charging batteries. Some batteries, particularly gel cells, are sensitive to the charging regime. |
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Generator safety issues:
(1) Do not add gasoline to hot generator. Let it cool down completely, until you can touch the exhaust pipe. (2) Generator should be properly grounded. Use good 3-wire cables of adequatge capacity; no daisy chains. (3) Exhaust fumes must not enter your living space - carbon monoxide is produced and is VERY toxic. (4) Arrange generator so no contact with hot exhaust manifold is possible. (5) Store gasoline away from generator. |
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The better way is to have a propane fired generator. We have a 15
KW standby hooked to a 500 gallon propane tank. That will give
us about 300 hrs of use. The well ,in another building
circuit is wired to a smaller gen and we have 100 gallons of stabilized
gas for it.
If your serious about all this get prepared. It will take at least 6 hrs a day to keep the frig cold and the house cool. If this area is out of juice for that long--50 days-- we figure we can "borrow" other neighborhood propane tanks as everyone else will be moved out. Remember to only run the gen in the daytime as sound carries further at nite. If you do run at nite be sure to have window covers as you do not want to advertize you have power. |
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downunder ![]() Guest Group ![]() |
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a billy is an Aussie word meaning a pot to boil water for a cuppa, usually made from alaminium and the handle is a peice of wire strung over the top from one side to the other. Can be as small as the tin can you have eaten the beans out of. Just punch two holes in opposite sides near the top of the can, and strin some wire through the holes. Use a stick to lift off the flame or the steam will burn your hand.
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Additional generator safety note:
Do not connect generator to your house wiring unless you have a transfer switch installed and approved by a registered electrician, so you do not send out power on the incoming line. A transfer switch isolates your house circuit from that of the power company. |
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Eagles Dancing ![]() Valued Member ![]() ![]() Joined: April 03 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 190 |
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We plan to revamp the old spring house to keep items cool this summer. This is a small building with a cement floor which has a trough that the cold spring water stream pours into.
If if was good enough for our fore fathers its good enough for me.
I can't wait to chill some homemade elderberry wine and kick back and enjoy the pleasures that come from living in the sticks.
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Eagles Dancing ![]() Valued Member ![]() ![]() Joined: April 03 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 190 |
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We purchased a wood furnace that heats the house, barn, greenhouse and supplies us with hot water.
Even with the mild winter we went through 45 + ricks of wood!!
We sure didn't see that coming. We had 30 rick cut up and thought that would be plenty.
So we need to start building that old wood pile up again and this time add 20 ricks to our pile on top of the huge one we had last year.
That new chainsaw we bought will really get a work out this year.
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How much wood is a rick? I have never heard that term is it equivlant to a cord?
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Eagles Dancing ![]() Valued Member ![]() ![]() Joined: April 03 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 190 |
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A rick is four feet high 16" to 24" wide and eight feet long stack of wood. We sell wood around here in "rick". A rick runs about $35 to $40.
Some folks use the term instead of a cord of wood.
That's a clear as mud.
You have to remember I am from the sticks in Southern Indiana.
Sorry for the confusion.
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Here's a interesting tip for those who have water on their property:
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Help needed!! Would you electrical whizz-kids PLEASE take a look at question for Ice under priority preps?? Pretty PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!
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I'm a first-class moron, it's under survival tips
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AVanarts ![]() Valued Member ![]() Joined: March 30 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 97 |
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A Cord of wood is defined as 128 cubic feet, or 4ft x 4ft x 8ft. I don't know if a "rick" is formally defined, but a Cord sure is.
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I have a 600W pure sine wave inverter and a 110Ah deep cycle battery and a decent ctek battery charger for charging when the power is back on.
Now my questions. I am thinking of running my cars engine to power the inverter if the electric is off for a while (my tank never gets more than half empty).
Anyone know how many amps a car alternator gives? How much fuel do cars (1.6 and 2 Litre engines) use when iding? |
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Guests ![]() Guest Group ![]() |
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Differant cars have differant alternators. Check you manual as it
should tell you. Idle cas use. Anybodys guess. Ask a dealer
maybe. Cars can overheat if idled too long so watch the temp gauge
closely.
I think you better try the inverter first with a full battery. It won't last long. The inverter draws a lot of juice. A better way to power light bulbs is the 12v battery itself. Get some RV bulbs-they come 50W. Buy some old lamps at a garage sale, cut the plugs off and strip them down to attach to a battery. |
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MercutioATC ![]() Guest Group ![]() |
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I spent 9 days at an ecoresort in Costa Rica a few years ago. It's very easy to adjust to the "up at dawn, down at sunset" schedule whenthere are no computers and TVs to keep you awake. |
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I can't run the central heating without electric (draws 125Watts at most) and we have a lot of food in freezers. Also our gas fire has a fan that requires 35 Watts. So the inverter is for an hours heating and 2 hours freezer running per day. I am assuming that the gas is less likely to go off and if it does we just wrap up.
I am hoping that here in the UK the power outages will be less than a day at a time and that I can charge my batteries in between. I forsee many short power outages rather than any prolonger one (beacuse the country would be totally stuffed otherwise) |
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2ifbyC ![]() Adviser Group ![]() Joined: March 30 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 533 |
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Web Ferret,
Have you checked the wattage of your freezer? Most power charts put them at 600-1000 watts. The start-up surge will be closer to the top end.
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Survival does have an 'I'!
Dodging 'canes on Florida's central Gulf Coast |
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Guests ![]() Guest Group ![]() |
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If your outages are less than a day at a time why worry? If its
cold the freezer will last for days. Just buy a couple extra
blankets.
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The freezer runs at 80 watts - the start-up surge is 1000W. Its a very efficient and well insulated Bosch. I have a power meter that measures this stuff - I know its accurate as I have tested it with 60W and 100W light bulbs.
I have no idea what BF outages may be - I'm just guessing and preparing as best I can like every one else on here.
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2ifbyC ![]() Adviser Group ![]() Joined: March 30 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 533 |
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Hopefully the freezer won't spike your 600 watt inverter on start up. If the spike period is short enough you might be OK. Have you tested the freezer/inverter combo out yet?
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Survival does have an 'I'!
Dodging 'canes on Florida's central Gulf Coast |
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Guests ![]() Guest Group ![]() |
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Just for kicks, I hooked up two 115 ah (6 volt) golf cart batteries in series, with an inverter. Plugged in a vacuume cleaner running 6 amps (about 660 watts), it lasted 15 minutes before the inverter sounded letting me know the batteries were at half charge.
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How to build an Iceless Refrigerator (page 1) or a Burlap or Evaporation Cooler (page 2): |
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Bill 100 ![]() Valued Member ![]() Joined: May 21 2006 Location: United States Status: Offline Points: 524 |
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A storm is coming !
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Irene ![]() Adviser Group ![]() Joined: June 26 2006 Status: Offline Points: 46 |
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fab4 ![]() Valued Member ![]() Joined: April 12 2008 Location: GA Status: Offline Points: 39 |
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Old topic but new question - I am looking for a system to power an air purifier and/or CPAP machine - not long term, only for sick room. Those are the only two things I haven't been able to cover by other means. Looking into solar for that but it's too costly right now.
Another idea I had is this - we have a propane tank outside - don't they make propane generators? How do you get the propane to the generator. I know there are relatively inexpensive standby systems out there but require installation which is costly. Any thoughts?
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