generators-gotta love em

[Auntiesue]

We purchased one last year!! Haven't had to use it "yet", but we're ready if needed. It's enough to run the ponds, the indoor tanks and a few necessary things inside the house. Most importantly the ponds!! I should fire it up though and let it run for a little while. Maybe DS can do that for me this weekend.

[Steve E]

I used emergency generators extensively during my tenure as a firefighter. Each one of our engines had one that had to be maintained. We ran them weekly under load. We used a 500 watt portable light to pull a test load. This makes sure the generator part as well as the engine works. I also like to move fuel through the engine and replace it with fresh stuff. I know that stalizers work but still feel it is best to add some new every now and then. Plus keeping the fuel tank topped off will reduce condensation in the fuel.

I would guess that we could reduce the test run to something like once a month and be on the good side of caution.

It is also important to test that brand new generator just home from the store. I know that failures out of the box are rare but they can happen. Read the owner's manuel and familiarize yourself with the controls.

Steve

[aquitori]

What do you guys suggest to look for when pruchasing one for the sole purpose of supporting the pond?

[mstrseed]

Quote: Originally Posted by aquitori What do you guys suggest to look for when pruchasing one for the sole purpose of supporting the pond?

Your ponds requirement for watts. Do you want to only run part of it or all of it?
Can your wife move it into position and then start it.

[Auntiesue]

Each generator is rated for start up watts/amps and running watts/amps. Those that are more familiar with the proper wording can chime in here. All I did was add up the wattage of all the pumps and air pumps that I need to have running to support the ponds AND my indoor tanks as well and purchased a unit that would handle that amount and then some. Now with the new pond running, I'll need to get another generator as the one I have now would be close to maxed out with that addition so I'm watching for a deal now.

Just add everything up, take that information to your local trusted big box store, tell them what you need and they'll guide you to a proper sized unit.