Generators Portable or Permanent? ABR Electric in McKinney TX

[@SMITTY19722]

This video might be three years old, but every word that comes out of this man’s mouth holds true on every account and still applies now and for years to come. GREAT VIDEO

[@coveharborautosales]

I have a portable Generac 17500. Cost was $3500. Bought a conversion kit to run propane, natural gas, or gasoline. $450. Then bought an extended 25ft 50 amp cord $350. Bought a natural gas high pressure line with quick connects for easy hookup, $300. Paid a plumber to put a gas tap on my meter, $400. Paid an electrician to install a 50 amp female outlet that connects to my main fuse box, $550 (but had to get A LOT of quotes). Had an interlock switch put in my fuse panel to avoid backfire ding electricity to linesman and neighbors ,$65 for part, installation was included in same fee for 50 amp outlet. It’s probably about 1/3 the cost of having a permanent generator installed, but with wheels and the extended hose and cord, I am confident it won’t be much trouble. Also natural gas will not run out, and it is way cheaper than having to go to gas station, which is probably already out of gas. This unit burns 2 gallons an hour of gasoline, so natural gas was a no-brained. Hope this helps someone.

[@Samlol23_drrich]

How do you get the power cord into your house (to the main panel)? I've got the exact setup as you described (different Gen of course) but I have an inlet box on the outside of my house which I plug into. Thanks.

[@coveharborautosales]

@@Samlol23_drrich this is what I ordered: GeepKey Latest 50 Amp Generator Power Inlet Box, NEMA 3R Generator Receptacle 50 Amp, NEMA SS 2-50P PB50 Weatherproof Inlet Box, 125/250 Volt,12500 Watts Generator Transfer Switch, ETL Listed Generac 6389 25-Foot 50-Amp Generator Cord with NEMA 1450 Male End and CS6364 Female Locking End

[@Samlol23_drrich]

@@coveharborautosales thanks. So you do have an inlet box. Sounded like you didn't. Nice setup. Im jealous

[@coveharborautosales]

@@Samlol23_drrich Depending on where you live, the electrician should not charge much to get it set up. You will also need a plumber to hook up the gas outlet for you. I would not expect anyone no matter which region to pay electrician more than about $250 to install the box and the plumber should not be more than 150 or $200. The way I have it set up is fully functional and is approximately $10,000 cheaper than having the whole house generator.. In my opinion, the best money that I spent was on the gas hose that attaches from the generator to the natural gas outlet from your house. You can also never have enough good generator rated wire to go from your generator to the inlet box. Spend the money, it will be worth it!

[@will_mcfarland]

I did all that myself for $1500 including the generator. Had to run 50 feet of 6 gauge wire, install 50 amp inlet, and interlock. Took less than 5 hours total.

[@Pr0freestyler]

I didn't think about the "why" and I went from wanting to get a permanent generator to a portable generator. Thanks for saving me a ton of money!

[@gcruishank9663]

Get a big portable unit, get a pre-made sound reducing housing or build your own like I'm going to, and learn how to take care of it. WAY more versatile, especially with the dual-fuel units that you can add a natural gas conversion kit too, making them tri-fuel. Keep it and the box chained down so no one can steal it. All you have to do is turn off the main breaker, turn on the generator and flip your generator breaker. Easy!

[@culbyj3665]

Its so funny people say you absolutely have to install that interlock device which can be as cheap as 20 Bucks but as a Lineman . Yes its dangerous but the interlock is so unecessary as long as you turn off your main panel... U have common sense. Can I ask what genny U have and what u power it with a far as technical specs . Load wattage and amperage max of your house while on street power.. Thanks

[@gcruishank9663]

@@culbyj3665 I bought the Duromax XP15000EH. For shorter used I use propane, If power goes out for longer periods (knock on wood, haven't had a long power outage up here in BC, Canada for at least 2 seasons) I'll use gasoline since you get a little better output. Couldn't tell you what my total loads are but I do know we have all of our appliances including 2 deep freezers, furnace, air conditioner, my home recording studio with all my gear and computers, and a bunch of light circuits on the gen switch, and we've tested it with everything on, and were drawing a little less than half of what the gen can put out. Of course you have to leave a fair bit of room for spikes but I was pretty impressed.

[@Matdog2010]

This awesome machine has dual fuel and is super simple to start, even my wife and kids can start it with a simple push of a button from the remote start gadget. Auto choke does everything itself with no problems. Very strong machine. Purchased 2, one for the shop and one for home. Would definitely recommend!

[@abrelectric]

Thank you

[@jamesmcd71]

I went down this rabbit hole about 3 months ago. And I came to the conclusion a permanent Gen is for the wealthy. I came to this conclusion because the benefits of a permanent generator don't justify the expense. A minimum of 10x at the beginning and then the additional $500 to $1000 a year to maintain is basically the cost of a new portable generator every year. So I took a very nice portable and built a sound proof box for it. Because I made the designs I was able to put it behind my wood fence about 40 ft from the inlet box on the house. I do have to go into my garage and flip 2 brakes then use the key fob to crank my generator. I have a grand total of $2,450.00 in a system that runs everything in my 2300 sqft home. And I mean everything the Ac , freezer, lights, refrigerator even the washer and dryer. I can also use both propane or gas to run it.

[@nodak81]

A permanent setup doesn't cost any more to maintain than a portable one. They both need oil and filters.

[@jamesmcd71]

@@nodak81 sure it doesn't cost more in maintenance in relation to the generator itself. But the cost of ownership is easily 4x and depending on the switch and number of circuits you can easily hit 6x or 7x. I ended up with a Westinghouse 12,500 and a manual switch. I built a sound proof box beside my shed. The total was $1760.00 all in. I do have to go into my garage and flip 2 switches then push the button on the remote to start the generator. This is nothing compared to the $8500 to get a built in. Also unless your standing within 10ft of my generator you can't tell it's running. You can't get that with a built-in.

[@dontbanmebrodontbanme5403]

A permanent generator is for the wealthy? No, a permanent generator is for someone who needs a permanent generator! There are SO MANY THINGS to consider. * If you're 60 years old and your health isn't the best, do you really want to be making runs to find gas in the middle of some freak storm, carting that smelly gas home in your car, then trying to fill it up? * Imagine you were in Buffalo NY when they were getting 6+ feet of snow. Good luck finding gas to run your portable generator in that situation. * What happens if you're out of town and only your wife and young children are home and you lose power? Does she know what needs to be done to get everything up and running? Is she willing to go hunting for gas and dealing with all of the hassle associated with that? Is she willing to change the oil if you lose power for an extended period of time? Every situation is different, but I look at a whole house generator as an investment in your peace of mind.

[@dontbanmebrodontbanme5403]

@@jamesmcd71 Did you get the one with the dual fuel setup or the one that runs only on gas? At least if you have the dual fuel version, you can install a giant 500 gallon tank and not have to worry about dealing with gas. I'd tell anyone that even if you go portable, do yourself a HUGE FAVOR and get one that runs off of LP. I've done the portable generator with gas route. Got through 5 straight days of no power for Hurricane Katrina and Sandy. It's no fun setting an alarm and having to go fill it up every 6 hours. It's even less fun realizing you're running out of gas and need to go scout for more, then getting the gas smell out of your car after.

[@robertt9342]

@@jamesmcd71. Where’d you get $500 to $1000 a year in maintenance then? I will agree there’s more of setup cost, but not the numbers your talking about. The quotes I am getting is 2x the cost for me, not including the generator. To me it’s about need than anything else, and currently I only need a portable one. I can get more use out of a portable generator too, as I can use it where ever. That might change in the future and I can see automatic generator being a worthy investment, but not till then.

[@bellachi9575]

Thank you for the no nonsense approach to generators. Great info. I wish I lived near McKinney so I could hire your company!

[@abrelectric]

I wish you did too :)

[@jonathanmurphy2065]

Excellent advice. I never thought about gas supply issues either so thanks for sharing your experience.

[@weshawkins7165]

We’ve got both. Just had a 24kw propane powered Generac installed. Was great but sucks the propane and we just had a snow storm in the northern Sierras that knocked power out for two weeks and all road were impassable due to trees down everywhere. We used are gasoline portable 17500 watt Generac to power the house in the AM when we didn’t use as much electricity and the big Generac in the PM when we had more demand. Each would only run for three or four hours. I could run to town and get gasoline where we couldn’t get a propane delivery right away if we ran out. Unfortunately my 12 year old 17500 blew the control board for the stepper motor so I have decided to replace the generator with a new Duramax 13000 watt generator rather than put three to four hundred dollars in a 12 year old generator. It’s the cost of living in the mountains.

[@johnjaco5544]

24k,what are you powering?????An army base????

[@weshawkins7165]

@@johnjaco5544 An all electric house with a shop that has a lift and air compressor. It’s amazing how much wattage is needed to run a 9000 watt water heater and a well along with everything else that may or may not come on at the same time. Plus it’s better to have it and not need it and need it but not have it.

[@culbyj3665]

What type of load are u powering ? obviously if you have naturl gas its much lower in the winter. I can do that with my 5k gasser in the winter but in the sumer its all about finding out which duromax I should buy for a 3 ton condenser with a LRA of 98. Dont need whole house. buut I just worry about the start up surge for sizing a portable... Any info U have please advise. Im looking at the 15000 duromax or generac but Ive heard alotta issues with generacs Monster 17kw as well as it not having stable frequencys on the output for electronics... Thanks for any and all advice . I know its tough and tiem consuming to respond But uch appreciated or call me if ya want. Be safe The sierras got blasted this year with snow I get it...

[@weshawkins7165]

@@culbyj3665 Our house is all electric with the exception of the propane heater. The water heater has two 4500 watt elements so if it’s on and the well kicks on it’s a strain on the well pump motor. The 17500 watt gasoline portable Generac actually only puts out 12500 watts at the 240 plug and that’s only start up wattage. Throw in two freezers and a refrigerator, lights, tv, microwave and it adds up fast. I’m done doing without during our winter and summer power outages.

[@jsp7205]

Live in Florida and this year alone I had 2 hurricanes Ian and Nicole go right over the house lost power for 2 days and 1.5 days respectively. I have a gasoline powered 5500 watt Mitsubishi generator which I wheel out of the garage and hook it up to a transfer box on the patio. It runs my refrigerator and freezers plus 1 bedroom with a window mounted AC but it struggles at times. I just purchased a New larger LPG/Gasoline powered DuroMax xp13000 watt generator for under a thousand bucks. I have purchased two 30 pound LPG tanks for long term fuel storage in the shed.This should be enough for a few days of operations I also have two 20 pound LPG tanks for the BBQ that can be used. The LPG has a much longer storage life than gasoline and easier to refuel the generator which is a big plus.

[@abrelectric]

Nice!

[@blackiedekat2612]

Ive been using a portable generator for years to power the house during outages, but it is a chore at a stressful time. at 67 yrs old i decided its time for auto start,auto switch whole house generator. they are pricey but i do feel its an investment in the property that my heir's can cash in when the time comes...............thanks for the video ABR.

[@abrelectric]

Portables are a load of work anytime. You're welcome

[@cm-hw5ww]

Good video. I just found this. I went through this a few years ago and waffled between the portable and permanent for a while. Finally I was about to pull the trigger on a 24kw permanent installation and looked things like consumption, maintenance and how much energy I actually consume. They are, as you say a pig! I'm all electric but have a 120gallon propane tank that runs a space heater. That 24kw unit would drain that tank in no time. And the only time I need 24kw is to start the heat pump. Most of the time I'm only using a few kw. Another issue with the permanent is even if you do all the maintenance what happens if it drops a valve or burns out a bearing ? You can't go down to NAPA (not a sponsor) to get a replacement. And all the maintenance/repair is at the unit, in the 'elements' ... during an ice storm, a heatwave, or a flood. Or even at your leisure grovelling around on the ground. If you want that 'turn-key' automatic operation many of us want (and that is not a bad thing) you need to see what kind of support (ongoing maintenance and repair agreements, turnaround, spare parts availability etc). My electrician said they install permanent generators but they don't maintain them. In the end I had the electrician install a 50amp generator inlet and a sub-panel feeding specific circuits (with an interlocking device). A 10kw portable generator that I run off propane cylinders (long story but the propane people out where I am don't like generator people lol). If the portable generator croaks I can wheel in another one. Of course that was two years ago and the last outage (after a winter storm) was over 3.

[@firstjohn3123]

I went portable about 20 years ago, and just bought a replacement last year (the old one still runs fine, just gave it to the son-in-law). The maintenance thing is real. I've heard guys who ran it 5 minutes, then threw it in a shed for 2-3 years, then complained that it was a piece of junk when it didn't start when they needed it. If you treat a car like that, it won't start either! Initial expense is a big deal (meaning a high point of consideration), but so is the automatic transfer of power. A portable can go with you when/if you move. I run my whole house on an 8000w generator, & have run it for over 6 days 24/7 straight. Gasoline usage was about 80 gallons. Natural gas usage would have been about 220+ MCF (if using that fuel-assuming same load) - 2x+ the cost in fuel/day. But no storage necessary. Each way, the cost of fuel is less than the deductible on my insurance! So, look at ALL fuel prices in your area. Fuel availability can be an issue. I have chosen 2 portables (1 gasoline/ 1 Natural gas converted), and the initial cost is STILL less than a permanent unit.

[@abrelectric]

Thank you!

[@culbyj3665]

What generator are u using to ru your whole house at 8KW? do u have central air?? if so how many tons? whats your load with everything running

[@firstjohn3123]

@@culbyj3665 @culbyj3665 @culbyj3665 Champion generator (8kw/10kw). 3 ton a/c with soft-start, full load at about 7kw (a/c on). 2 fridges, 1 freezer, 2 sump pumps (220v). All lights are led. All Major appliances are gas. Note, my home only needs about 3750w without the a/c. We use the microwave a lot...Maximum input is set at 35a. Would need 60A+ in fully electric home instead of 35A....gas appliances really reduce electric load. We used to have a 5kw generator. Lights, refrigerators, sump pumps, furnace👍- but no a/c...had to stick with fans. Hope this helps. Every home is unique. For Comparison: My home with incandescent bulbs...3600w+, CFL 945w, led 635w....all lights on (which never happens)...

[@brucebanner6434]

Absolutely great video straight to the point littered with facts I’m a subscriber now good job sir.

[@abrelectric]

No, thank you!

[@DogSoldier1948]

You can take the portable with you if you need to evacuate are it can be used for camping, off grid job sites etc. Portables have many more usages than stationary units.

[@justinmccoy7167]

In the process of installing a portable unit that will be able to run half of my house. I couldnt justify a whole house permanent system. So long as I can keep the downstairs a/c and the fridge/freezers going, I am good. I went with Westinghouse Wgen9500TFC (running on natty gas).

[@abrelectric]

@@justinmccoy7167 nice!

[@Mike-01234]

The way to go is with the GENLINK device goes behind the meter just plug a portable right into the plug on the bottom of it. Need a contractor to put it in the power company will want a permit. All they do is remove the meter plug in the genlink and plug the meter back in. Some power utilities offer the Genlink for people for free.

[@abrelectric]

We've installed a few. They are super simple. Worth a video?

[@TN-ez6lz]

@@abrelectric Please do a video on the GENLINK!

[@carlosd.9158]

Awesome was just visiting Emory and looking for resources for this

[@cristianstriblea792]

Thanks for the good info from your video. I was struggling to decide what type of generator to get . After watching the video I went ahead and purchased portable tri fuel Duramax. ( $ 1,900 from $ 2,499 for Black Friday deal at Lowes )

[@abrelectric]

A lot of people end up choosing Duromax.

[@morbward8281]

I went with a Durostar 13000. If, for any reason I have to move, I can take it with me.

[@abrelectric]

@@morbward8281 Good call!

[@culbyj3665]

How has that duromaxx been working for ya? do u have central air? how big and what are your experiences?? Ive been looking at a westinhouse or duromax in the 15kw range

[@frodrickfronkensteen9241]

Bout 30 miles north of you. Yes, last Feb 2021 storm sucked. We are rural... and "they" triaged our asses off out here. The blackouts were not "rolling" for us. They turned us off... and KEPT US OFF for nearly four days (4 days in subfreezing temps). Please consider "this" my middle finger to all the yankees laughing at us. Lotta people died in that storm... and it was political negligence and greed that caused it... the last time something like this happened was winter of 79'/80'. A lot (millions) fewer people in the state back then... and, quite frankly, we were hardier folk back then. Enough said on that score. Good video. You broke the two genny camps down very accurately. I saved up the past year and went portable. While I don't have the HOA issues to consider, the install and especially the fuel concerns/decisions were (to put it lightly) enlightening. We are on propane... and I've learned more than I care to about vaporization-to-bottle/tank volumes/rates and especially consumption rates of my genny... which happens to be the one in your video. Again, good video. You broke the generator camps down well, and you did it succinctly. Well done.

[@abrelectric]

Hopefully, this year's Winter will be kinder, and ERCOT will be more competent

[@robertt9342]

It’s sad that you think the “Yankees” were laughing at you, especially as they were sending goods, money and man power to help. Heck even the “yankee” politicians did more to help than your own. It’s attitudes like this that make people not want to help, Texas with it abundance does not help hose “yankee” states when they are dealing with disaster. We’re people hardier back then, yes and no. Physiologically there is no difference, mentally is not that straight forward. The infrastructure available to those during power outages were more robust as modern society has come to really more heavily on electricity. It’s a lot easier being “hardier” when you can keep warm and cook food.

[@iron352]

U really 👍😊 😃 gave me the best information yet

[@goldenranch5729]

Might want to do a video on THD, Total Harmonic Distortion. Not a lot of people talk about that for the portable generator options and what you get for the higher end ones that have the better THD.

[@culbyj3665]

do U know which brands are best for that issue or have built in capabilits for THD. Im looking at the westinghouse 15kw or duromax 13kw 15 surge

[@randomAnnanoumousDude2134]

I had this issue, when fridge+Fridge+freezer would come on with my portable unit, the computer battery backup would trip out because it was greater than 5% Another guy did a test on a portable vs. generac unit and the generac was much less THD until it was extremely loaded and it shut it's self down in that situation. Those big portables only run clean power at 1/2 of rated output. My last portable gen set by the time I'd used it for a third power outage was stuggling to keep voltage regulated etc. I left it with the house I sold. So it's not always a benefit being portable if the electronics suck after a few uses.

[@waynemasters]

We’re visiting my Mum in Central Arkansas, she moved here with work, we’re from St Catharines, Ont. Instead of Entergy, she has an electric Co-Op that is very unreliable. We bought her a 11,500 watt portable dual fuel for $719 +GST, worked out to $776. We looked into a Generac but the costs involved with the Co-Op made it difficult. This was literally the only choice. After the ice storm a few weeks ago, lost hydro for 24+ hours, that’s when I wanted something as a backup. It sounds like you’re from our neck of the woods, and I agree, the weather here isn’t even in the ballpark compared to home, but it’s dipped down to -15 over Christmas. With unpredictable and changeable weather to top an unreliable hydro supplier, I would recommend the portable to anyone. Great video! Thanks for sharing! Always good to have good perspectives, eh?

[@abrelectric]

Thank you!

[@waynemasters]

@@abrelectric You betcha!

[@harrydoherty8299]

our power lines are all underground. in 35 years living here we lost power maybe a dozen time for usually a few hours at the most . we can live with that .

[@abrelectric]

Yeah, you can!

[@oilhammer04]

I bought a $2,000 generator and have spent another $1,000 so far for gas and electrical supplies for connecting the generator to gas and running electrical components and wires to the main panel in my house. I am going to have a plumber make the final connection to my gas line. If you wait for a disaster to buy a generator, then you are at the mercy the cost of market demand on generators.

[@quinntheeskimooutdoors6234]

😊Thanks

[@LibertyNotLicense]

More excellent advice! Thank you!

[@dwightsmith5174]

Suggestion - for a temporary situation or a permanent solution, get a Generlink meter base adaptor. Would recommend the 40-amp unit. Safe, very easy to use, super easy (5 min.) for the electric company to install. I have no ties to the company. I bought one and it's a great solution. Using it with my Generac standby genset. Simply plug in the cord when needed, unplug when done. My electric is supplied by my city utilities. Emailed the utility director the specs, brochures and website link. Requested the utility department approval as I assumed they were not aware of this unit - they were not. A week later I received his approval letter! For best pricing, order directly from Generlink by calling them. For my 40-amp unit, they had a build lead time of 4 weeks.

[@cayrick]

James, one big item you did not address is that when you roll out the portable it is typically during a storm. That means you have to shelter it. Do you want a tent or an enclosure. This is where things can get expensive. You then have to think routing exhaust and having a fan big enough to cool the enclosure and then there is sound. When you go down this rabbit hole a standby system begins to look very attractive.

[@abrelectric]

I agree. The upside can be that outages are typically short. When we do the install for portable generator, we do a rehearsal transfer with the client.

[@Pk3_Garage]

For a portable unit, you can buy a GenTent to protect it from the elements. We have one and it works very well. They even have a storage apron that covers the entire bottom. This is good for storage and when you want to set up your Gen. before the storm, but not using it.

[@supersmashist]

The decision for me came down to the the basement. House with no basement I would go portable. House with basement it would need to be automatic.

[@carloswoe5002]

hahaha this guy is funny! He said "I know you don't have any power what's so ever but what kind of power do you need is it appliances or electrical devices" Ummmm well WE DONT HAVE ANY FUCKING POWER, WHAT SO EVER SO YES! lol I am going to subscribe just cuz this dudes funny.

[@abrelectric]

What is going on where you're at?

[@nidalshehahadeh7485]

Unexpected ! I hav a 12000 dual fuel Duramax ,I had in the garage five propane bottles set aside for an emergency such as Hurricane Ian , my first surprise had to do with the propane side of the generator , it took forever to get it going , it had to do with purging air from the propane line , at the same time propane needs Heat , I ended up using starting fluid to get it going , then I was surprised : propane bottle only last about 4 to 4.5 hours , out of experience propane generator is not an option for me , on the other hand generator tank full of gasoline lasted about 12 hours . I used to be in the automotive business and I have worked on natural gas vehicles , there is a device called a reduction valve on propane Vehicles installed between the propane tank and the engine , if I remember correctly there was another valve after it before the propane gets to the engine , there was a button on one of the valves I can't remember which one in which pushing it in will Prime propane in the engine , maybe a prime valve is needed on a Duramax , a prime button that will make it easy to start the generator . P.S. generators and gas cans were selling like hotcakes at Lowe's , I imagine whoever had generators for sale would have been busy after the hurricane .

[@abrelectric]

Thank you!

[@noampitlik2332]

The best, I think, is a portable that can use gasoline. Housed in a designated steel structure, as if permently fixed, rain and rodent tight. The manual switch is easy.

[@epaul1967]

I’ve had a “gas” generator for years, but after the last hurricane we are swapping to Natural Gas. We were out of power 10 days and I had to wait 3+ hours to refill our 8 cans on 2 different days. Never again….plus I don’t like keeping a bomb in my utility shed year round.

[@noampitlik2332]

@@epaul1967 I hear you. Here in earthquake and wildffire country, the first thing that either goes or is shut off is the gas. Propane tanks blow up like time bombs, too. So, stabilized gasoline is what we use. We built an all-steel shed for the generator, away from the house. We also upgraded the well output and piping to 1 1/2. The firehose is almost hard to handle at full-blast.

[@ACF6180T]

I didn't have to think twice about it ! Due the amount of times I've lost power in the last 27 years ( once )in a 24 hour period , I went with a Generac 15000 & runs strictly on gasoline ! I'm use to doing all the maintenance on all my lawn equipment & vehicles , & the $$$$$$$ cost of a permanent generator was not worth it even long term with all permits that are required have one installed made it not worth it ! & I live in a somewhat rural area ! Just remember to change out the fuel , & ad a stabilizer to the fuel prior to putting it into the tank , Or drain the tank every 30 days & run the generator once every month for a 1/2 hour . Either way there is a cost to having a generator ,& maintaining it ! But it's better to have it & not need it , Than need it , & not have it😉.

[@abrelectric]

Truth!

[@danielking2944]

There is another option.A 3kw off grid solar inverter with 10 KWH battery 10 400 w panels a critical loads panel material costs approximately 8,000. Most basically skilled DIYers can assemble the system apart from the critical loads panel.Waste a little money on a poor electrician. Then buy a good quality,small inverter generator to use when you go camping.Approximately 2500. Less noise ,better quality electricity for your electronics,and starts to repay you from day one.

[@danielking2944]

See Signature Solar You Tube channel for informative videos and top quality products.

[@alhedenstrom4390]

One point you missed, which some of the comments have already talked about, is, you can now buy inverter generators that will run on Gas, Propane and Natural gas. To have the option to run on more than one fuel type is the key to being prepared. Propane and Natural gas do not pollute as much as gas, and who wants to wait in long lines for gasoline, if the gas station has power to pump gas. Propane will store for 30 years, gas will store for perhaps one year if you store it correctly.

[@abrelectric]

You are absolutely right! Earlier comments showed that I was behind on my thinking about inverters, primarily that they were low wattage and expensive.

[@bobby4800]

@@abrelectric I purchased a generator last week with 20% THD without knowing much at the time. I know I cannot run sensitive electronics on it, but will there be any issues running my furnace blower (natural gas furnace) if the power goes out?

[@abrelectric]

@@bobby4800 that is a great question. The potential problem goes beyond the blower motor itself. That same circuit also typically supplies the control panel (with circuit board and thermostat). Your best answer might be to ask your HVAC guy how that will affect the furnace control panel. 20% seems high for supplying a circuit board.

[@MRTLEW01]

2yrs for sure if stored rt, i have heard 5 i dont know!

[@goldengirl5887]

Thank u!!!!

[@robertt9342]

I think from the traumatic side (I want heat and water) lends towards making basic generator purchases. Losses on quality of life (I can’t use my internet/watch tv/shower) leads to larger purchases.

[@abrelectric]

Accurate distinction, I agree

[@GabrielSBarbaraS]

I just hook up an invertor to my riding mower to keep my fridge cold once every few hours as needed. ( with extension cord by the way ) ( I guess this a third option )

[@abrelectric]

Making it happen :)

[@GabrielSBarbaraS]

@@abrelectric I think a lot of the decision depends on how often one loses power and what type of climate you live in. Also to consider is if your heat source is gas or heat pump. ( gas furnace or boiler can also run off of invertor. Medical needs also need to be considered. I would guess some people are not able to tolerate any power loss without health complications. ( then the permanent install needs to be considered. Thanks for posting and making me think here ABR/

[@odderickascreations2633]

Thank you for this. It's intriguing. I live in an area of SoCal where, after they got their rear ends sued off after the 2018 Thomas Fire, SCE took to turning off the power for days every time it got windy. We have Santa Ana winds (high winds) roughly from September through January. We have many power outages during those times. I would like to have lights, a powered refrigerator, power for my computers (wi-fi goes out from the provider's end anyway), and maybe enough juice for my coffee maker, sewing machine, and a few other small, misc. devices. If I promise to cycle it routinely, will a smaller unit work? If so, what do you recommend?

[@abrelectric]

Yes, if you have gas heat, and you're not running AC, you can go with a 7-8Kw, safely. If a portable generator is your choice, go with a unit with an L14-30 outlet, electric start

[@johnnybwrlr983]

Also, if you get a smaller generator with a limited transfer switch, with an 8 circuit or 16 circuit transfer capability, you could make it work inexpensively. But if you want any ac or large appliance, the smaller generator won't work. But if you use it with computers, tvs or sensitive electronics, get a generator with a low thd (total harmonic distortion). You don't want anything over 5% thd, even up to 95% load. I bought a Westinghouse for that reason. For example, the firmann, (sold by Costco) hits something like 35% the at over 50% load.

[@snake10566]

You don't need to be there when the power is off for portable if you're savvy.

[@joshmason7037]

Does the built in voltage regulars in a duramax portable gen keep the hertz close to 60 also? Or engine speed is only thing that controls the hertz? I have a small inverter Honda witch puts out a constant 60 hertz and I love it for charging cell phone,tv and computers etc..but it’s not big enough to wire into my house 240 volt 50 amp

[@rockystelone21]

Westinghouse has two big portable generators....15kw Dual fuel and a 20kw peak 28k that runs only on gas

[@davidlemay4761]

Natural gas is not volatile enough to start a cold engine a portable generator is your best bet.

[@Steve410811]

All i care is thr hvac and hot water

[@lj.7311]

Can you recommend a good brand of portable generator? Honda, Genarac?

[@abrelectric]

@@lj.7311 are you looking at longevity? Low maintenance? Low decibels? Low THD/clean power?

[@lj.7311]

@@abrelectric I’m looking for a portable that is quality made and will last. Maintenance isn’t really an issue, I’m mechanically inclined. Best bang for your buck good quality and serviceable should it ever need parts.

[@abrelectric]

@@lj.7311 Generac. The company is solid on customer support and parts.

[@Frank-vo9xo]

Do you have any videos on do-it-yourself manual is annual switch over for a portable generator

[@abrelectric]

Frank, unfortunately I do not.

[@abrelectric]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/naDVm6uhnK6hpMk

[@jimihendrix4376]

So between Duromax, Westinghouse, Champion, Ford, Preditor and A Ipower have any idea which has the best track record ? thanks

[@abrelectric]

Beyond comparing reviews, look at warranties, and the details of fuel and maintenance, which will work best for your application.

[@anthonythomas6977]

@@abrelectric Generac reliability and customer service, especially on whole house generators, has gone downhill past couple of years. They are not horrible units but the parts, customer service, anything goes wrong under warranty you have to work twice as hard for results. Check out Briggs and Stratt and Kohler. I love Cummins but unless you get lucky 200--450 day lead times!

[@abrelectric]

@@anthonythomas6977 strange times we live in

[@mannyp812000]

I’m making the jump… I lost power for 3 days the week of Christmas and yes my portable was good however if it was summer rain and I wasn’t home .. my basement would’ve flooded and it would’ve been crazy expensive and all my guns in the safe would’ve been done

[@abrelectric]

What are you going to put in?

[@mannyp812000]

@@abrelectric I have a quote appointment today… the guy says they do generac and Cummings … then I have 2 more scheduled tomorrow but I was looking for something around 20 Kw … the portable I used over 3 days was a 5000 watt it powered essential appliances except the electric stove, toaster oven and microwave I bought a 9400 watt one after but after talking to my neighbors who all have whole home generators that watched me make a few trips to refill it , they said that I might as well get the whole home one since I don’t plan on moving from this house and I won’t have to worry about anything when the power goes out if I’m home or away

[@abrelectric]

@@mannyp812000 If you don't have electric heat, but propane or gas furnace, your major load to worry about is only during the summer, and that's just with your air conditioning.

[@mannyp812000]

@@abrelectric just saw this … thanks for the info… going with the 17Kw Cummings $11,200 for the entire install, permits, lines… etc.

[@hardhatwilliams9339]

What is your price for a transfer switch connection with a portable generator?

[@abrelectric]

If we're providing all the pieces- 50a cord, 50a inlet near the panel, the interlock switch, and the generator breaker, plus installation, $700 to $800.

[@hardhatwilliams9339]

@@abrelectric ok . I'll send you an email when I get the Westinghouse generator .

[@abrelectric]

@@hardhatwilliams9339 you're in North Texas?

[@abrelectric]

@@hardhatwilliams9339 are you in North Texas?

[@hardhatwilliams9339]

@@abrelectric yes

[@AirborneSapper82]

Airborne !!!!!

[@abrelectric]

What unit? I was in 2/325, a long time ago

[@goldengirl5887]

U answered me in the 1st 5 min

[@abrelectric]

Awesome!

[@rzambranoj01]

Hey James, I have a generac 15000 portable generator that I converted to run on natural gas. The generator has a 50 and 30 amp plug. My question is can the generator run when both circuits have loads on them or is it 1 or the other?

[@abrelectric]

You may have a main breaker on the generator, maybe a 50 amp. You can plug in all you want as long as it's not more than the main breaker

[@rzambranoj01]

Ok just to make sure I understand, I can plug into the 50 and 30 at same time as much as I want as long as breaker doesn't trip?

[@abrelectric]

@@rzambranoj01 Yes, the total connected load is the issue. Not just simply using the plugs. So be aware of the loads you're plugging in, in terms of wattage or amps. The generator will give you feedback when a breaker trips. 😀

[@rzambranoj01]

Ok got it. Your awesome! Thank you

[@nodak81]

@@rzambranoj01 You should be able to use every plug on the generator's output panel at the same time. You just have to be careful about load-balancing. The rule of thumb is not to draw more than 80% of whatever a circuit is rated for. That includes the generator itself. So the total power consumption across all the plugs on a 15kW generator should be kept at 12kW or less if possible.

[@peterandrade4313]

Airborne!!

[@abrelectric]

AATW

[@Thepeopleschamp1983_]

Can you do portable solar generator vs portable gas generator 🤔

[@abrelectric]

Definitely. The biggest difference for the money, is you just don't get as much power as you do with a gas generator. Solar will be great for charging phones, running computers.

[@Thepeopleschamp1983_]

@@abrelectric they got the ecoflow delta pro and the max that can power up your whole house

[@abrelectric]

@@Thepeopleschamp1983_ How many watts do they put out?

[@Thepeopleschamp1983_]

@@abrelectric it puts out 3600 watts

[@Thepeopleschamp1983_]

@@abrelectric and you can chain 3 together

[@lesliesweeney368]

What generator powers all circuts

[@abrelectric]

Depends. Average home, without heat pumps, a 10kw to 13kw portable will do job.

[@CapnBubbaa]

Can a automatic transfer switch be attached to a Westinghouse WGen 20000 and activate and start, or will it have to be manual.... 20kw 28kw peak, how much loss on propane vtwin 999cc

[@abrelectric]

You will have to basically hardwire the generator to the ATS. What I don't know how to do is to wire a universal starter to the portable generator starter with a power loss sensor.

[@00dohcsi]

What size generator do I need to run my entire home? 1800sf

[@abrelectric]

Depends on a few other things. What kind of heat do you have, electric or gas? Do you have a swimming pool with pumps? How many AC condensers do you have?

[@AequitasSaints]

@@abrelectric let's pretend he was going to say. Gas heat, and one AC Condenser

[@abrelectric]

@@AequitasSaints the AC condenser will drive everything, since lights/plugs residentially don't account for much load. If the AC running amp is less than 30, then a 12kw -14kw generator with a soft start relay on the AC.

[@GulfSoftwash]

Best solution. Buy a tractor and a PTO generator.

[@abrelectric]

I've been trying to get my wife to buy me a tractor or a backhoe, for years. She's afraid I'll dig up the neighbor's yards :)

[@GulfSoftwash]

@@abrelectric sometimes it’s better to ask for forgiveness than permission. . The way this world is right now and an impending crash coming, go get the tractor. We’re all going to have Victory Gardens here in the near future.

[@carrowxhex6891]

How much for putting in a transfer switch should we expect to pay?

[@abrelectric]

Manual or automatic?

[@carrowxhex6891]

@@abrelectric manual

[@abrelectric]

@@carrowxhex6891 my guess is between $550 and $750, for simple whole panel interlock switch

[@DanielGonzalez-un6rz]

Honda inverter generator eu7000 that's all you need in this world .

[@Gergm7991]

Probably good for many situations but I wanted to run my central AC, so I needed 2X that power

[@CaptEricCagle]

Put another $300 down and get the honda...My Duramax only lasted about a year..

[@SuperColeman88]

I offer a portable dual fuel 12,000wat Duromax or Westinghouse with every solar installation.

[@danielking2944]

See Signature Solar you tube channel for informative videos and top quality equipment for your off grid emergency back up.

[@chopshop523]

This guy is adusch! Telling people to shut their mouths. Even joking you don’t know what’s appropriate and what’s not.

[@abrelectric]

The people in New York, Michigan and North Dakota said they weren't offended.