Sandbag wrote:

A UPS is not always a good idea since the draw of pumps and various
equipment can change and trip the UPS on power surge. The APC 1500 VA
would be the only one I recommend since it can be eaxpanded to 3000VA
with the extra battery pack.

How long would one of those last? I checked into one to drive the basics for my
125 gallon (mainly the heaters), and the ones I saw wouldn't last long. The
local electric company ran a "rolling blackout" one winter, and I remember
watching the temperature fall in my tank and being unable to do anything. Not a
good feeling.

If you are looking for the long run a small geneterator is the most
reliable and longest running. Honda makes the cheapest, quietest, and
most effiecent for its size.

I was able to buy a generator from Sportsman's Guide for around $200 (including
shipping), but they've gone up a bit. Mine only has enough gas to run for 4
hours, but it will drive all my aquarium equipment. I also use it in my handyman
business. Seemed like a good deal to me.

If you are looking to have an ATS (automatic transfer switch) that is a
good deal more work and requires an experienced, liscenced electrician
to install.

Very true. A whole-house backup generator with ATF would set me back about
$3,000, and the hookup would cost nearly as much. Labor costs in your area might
be lower, however, and you don't *have* to have a generator that can run your
whole house. The Home Depot sells these around here.

George Patterson
Coffee is only a way of stealing time that should by rights belong to
your slightly older self.