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Subject Author Date
Generator Thoughts Kyle Boatright 08-10-2006
|--> Re: Generator Thoughts Tom Horne, Elec...08-11-2006
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Posted by Pete C. on August 10, 2006, 10:11 pm
Kyle Boatright wrote:
>
> I need a small generator for use at an isolated outside storage building.
> The power demand is 1,000 watts or less and the generator only needs to run
> for an hour or two at a time. The generator will only be used occasionally,
> but, like most things, needs to work when I need it.
>
> FYI, I've looked at Honda generators, but their units are too pricey for my
> needs. I simply can't justify the cost, regardless of how nice the Honda
> generators are. At the other end of the spectrum, there are $99 generators
> on Ebay (2 strokes), but those scare the stuffing out of me, because I don't
> recognize the brand and because, after all, I need the darned thing to work
> when necessary.
>
> Any thoughts for a reliable, low cost generator that'll fit the bill?

The Generac units are generally perfectly reliable in light duty service
as you indicate. I have a 5kw that has done more than light duty and
never had a problem other than one carb clog when it go shutdown and
stored without running it dry. It has to be near 20 years old now and I
just used it a couple months ago to power a hammer drill while doing an
electrical upgrade.

For such a light load however, I'd really consider scraping up the $1k
for a Honda EU2000i or if your load really is under 1kw a Honda EU1000i
($700). Sure they cost more than cheapos, but they will be a lot more
reliable and long lasting. Get that no name $200 unit and the fifth time
you go to use it and spend an hour trying to get it running you'll be
kicking yourself for not getting the Honda. The Honda will also be a lot
quieter, lighter and use less gas.

Pete C.

PexSupply Full Banner
Posted by Toller on August 10, 2006, 10:39 pm

>I need a small generator for use at an isolated outside storage building.
>The power demand is 1,000 watts or less and the generator only needs to run
>for an hour or two at a time. The generator will only be used occasionally,
>but, like most things, needs to work when I need it.
>
I agree with everyone else, but will go further.
What are you going to use the generator for?
Lights? Electronics? Pumps?
And if it doesn't work, how much does it matter?

Its a little like saying you want to buy a car, but can't afford a Honda;
what should you get?
Well, that all depends on what you want to use it for, doesn't it?



Posted by Jim Redelfs on August 10, 2006, 11:47 pm

> Any thoughts for a reliable, low cost generator

Yeah: You've posed a textbook oxymoron.

I paid $1k for a Honda EU2000i

http://www.hondapowerequipment.com/ModelDetail.asp?ModelName=eu2000i

two years ago. I have probably put 10-15 hours on it when "dry" camping.

One can stand DIRECTLY over it while it is running under FULL load and hold a
reasonably "normal" conversation.

Every time I pull the starter cord, it starts. It runs perfectly.

I like the security of knowing I can power my new gas furnace during a
protracted outage - all night if need be - without pissing-off my neighbors
with noise.

I've heard the Yamaha line of quiet generators are as good and may even be
slightly less expensive.

You get what you pay for.
--
:)
JR

Posted by Toller on August 10, 2006, 11:57 pm

>
> I paid $1k for a Honda EU2000i

>
> Every time I pull the starter cord, it starts. It runs perfectly.
>
Do you keep gas in it? How often do you change it?
Mine is maybe 5 years old. It kept my furnace, refrigerator, and freezer
going for 5 days during an outage; and you literally couldn't hear it from
the street.

My one complaint is that it is hard to start, on old gas. I am just
wondering what you do to get it to start on the first pull. Changing the
gas is a pain, but certainly makes starting easier. I start it once a month
just to keep everything moving.



Posted by Larry Caldwell on August 11, 2006, 12:40 am
(Toller) says...

> My one complaint is that it is hard to start, on old gas. I am just
> wondering what you do to get it to start on the first pull. Changing the
> gas is a pain, but certainly makes starting easier. I start it once a month
> just to keep everything moving.

Why in the world do you keep old gas in it? When you finish using it,
just let it run until it runs dry. With that old gas plugging up the
carb, it's a wonder you can get it to start at all.


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