[ale] backup generator -- on the cheap

[Horwitz International, LLC]

Be very careful!!

The generator & UPS is a matched couple and, as we all know, not all couples
are the same. If you install a mismatched pair, you will create even greater
problems than what you currently have.

In order to get a reliable sustainable solution you need to clearly quantify
you power needs from a startup & continuous draw perspective. Size both the
generator & Inverter appropriately and coupe that with a dedicated panel
that will facilitate bi-directional cut-over without spikes. 

Additionally, it is HIGHLY advisable that you install a TVSS on both the
main and Generator panels - this will assist greatly when you are a victim
of voltage irregularities.

You get exactly what you pay for - if you go cheap, it will cost you in the
long run. We have had numerous customers who have experienced major
electrical fires as a result of not taking this seriously.

It matters not how small or large the system is. 

Good Luck

Roland Horwitz.
Horwitz International, LLC

-----Original Message-----
From: ale-bounces at ale.org [mailto:ale-bounces at ale.org] On Behalf Of Mike
Harrison
Sent: Monday, May 19, 2008 8:51 PM
To: ale at ale.org
Subject: Re: [ale] backup generator -- on the cheap

> if it's a guaranteed fix, or if I just needed a different class of 
> generator.

re: Class of generator: The Honda and other 'inverter' powered models
produce nice clean sine wave power compared to the average ones
that power lights and power tools well with modified sine or square waves.

Many UPS's need -exact- frequencies and clean sine waves to recognize that 
there is good power available. APC's are typically very frequency 
sensitive by default, but can be tuned (dip switches on the old 
ones, software on the new ones) to be less sensitive.




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