[TheForge] OT: Generators

[Steve Smith]

We just moved to somewhat rural Maine (Brownfield) and thought it wise 
to invest in a generator and transfer switch. I'm finding which 
generator to be a decision with lots of conflicting advice, and I'd like 
to "generate" more.

We already have propane, so this seems like a much better fuel than 
gasoline or diesel, given how much stored fuel is needed to last through 
a couple of days. This part was easy.

I was all set on a portable Winco unit until a guy (who sells 
generators, not an unbiased source) warned me against portable 
generators. He says that portables are only intended for a few hours of 
operation (that they overheat), and that they should not be used as 
backup power that might need to be on for several days.

So I looked at fixed "standby" generators. Rated for continuous duty, 
solves that problem. I figure our current load is about 5kW, so I have 
been looking at a 7kW Generac. There are, however, a sizeable number of 
people out on the web who say Generac is cheap junk. My electrician 
agrees. He says a portable should work ok for continuous use. The next 
step up from the Generac I'm aware of is a 12kW Onan, which is almost 
twice as much money.

The other issue is the size of the motor. If you compare fuel 
consumption for a 12kW and 7kW generator, both putting out 3-3.5kW, the 
12kW machine consumes 50% more fuel! So sizing the generator to the load 
looks pretty important.

I love to say this to a bunch of blacksmiths--opinions please? 
Especially on fixed vs. portable.

Thanks,
Steve Smith