Topic 'Generator in basement...' in forum 'Home Improvement' - dslreports.com http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Generator-in-basement-23769557 en Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:30:51 EDT Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:30:51 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23777004 said by AVD:

VCR?? VCR?? I want a DVR!!!!
It's a cell, the equivalent of a battery.
--
standard disclaimers apply.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23777004 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:25:02 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776998 said by Doctor Olds:

said by cdru:

"Multiple Recharge Options - User is not limited to one source for recharging as it can be recharged by mechanical, solar, wind or standard power."
And if you have the means to recharge it using mechanical, solar, wind, or standard power, then you already had the means to power whatever is plugged into it to begin with.
It is a Power VCR and you are time shifting the power for times when the solar doesn't produce (like when it is dark) and the wind doesn't produce (on still days).
VCR?? VCR?? I want a DVR!!!!
--
standard disclaimers apply.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776998 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:24:23 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776916 said by Doctor Olds:

It is a Power VCR and you are time shifting the power for times when the solar doesn't produce (like when it is dark) and the wind doesn't produce (on still days).It's all going to depend on what your power usage is. If the power usage exceeds what can be generated by the solar cells, then the battery will eventually run down. Presumably the OP is asking due to winter weather. That means there is already decreased periods of daylight, lower available solar power due to the season, as well as possibility of snow covering the cells.

If you are only using the power for emergency lighting, then your logic could work, letting the battery charge during the day and then slowly use it during the evening. If you are using it to run your gas furnace blower, a TV, house lighting, the fridge, etc throughout your day and night, it probably wouldn't.

If your can afford a solar system is large enough to provide usage+charging power at the same time for the day and expect it to also have reserves for night use, you probably wouldn't be asking about running an outdoor generator indoors using undersized wiring like the OP is asking to do.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776916 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:09:07 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776597 said by cdru:

"Multiple Recharge Options - User is not limited to one source for recharging as it can be recharged by mechanical, solar, wind or standard power."
And if you have the means to recharge it using mechanical, solar, wind, or standard power, then you already had the means to power whatever is plugged into it to begin with. It is a Power VCR and you are time shifting the power for times when the solar doesn't produce (like when it is dark) and the wind doesn't produce (on still days).
--
What’s the point of owning a supercar if you can’t scare yourself stupid from time to time?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776597 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:58:13 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776556 said by Bobcat:

said by Doctor Olds:

Yeah, let's break physics, no more gravity or pesky velocity or other laws of the universe. :o
What are you talking about? Gravity is just a theory, like evolution.
Newton's Law of Gravity
»physics.about.com/od/classicalme···vity.htm
quote:
Newton's law of gravity defines the attractive force between all objects that possess mass. Understanding the law of gravity, one of the fundamental forces of physics, offers profound insights into the way our universe functions.


quote:
There is no local experiment that can be done to distinguish between the effects of a uniform gravitational field in a nonaccelerating inertial frame and the effects of a uniformly accelerating (noninertial) reference frame. ~Einstein~


Did the inertial dampeners go offline?
--
What’s the point of owning a supercar if you can’t scare yourself stupid from time to time?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776556 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:48:43 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776429 said by cdru:

"Multiple Recharge Options - User is not limited to one source for recharging as it can be recharged by mechanical, solar, wind or standard power."
If whatever the recharging source doesn't have the capability to fully power whatever you are running directly, then it wouldn't have the power to recharge the battery faster then what it's being consumed.
Just pour more sunshine in the tank!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776429 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:19:16 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776419 said by myluvnttl78:

Research more before you just say something you don't seem to know anything about, also I think this is a very good investment, and because it's just a another toys to play with... ;) ;)It may be a good investment if you are looking for a decorator version of a UPS. I'm sure there are more cost effective, expandable UPS systems out there that you could easily cover with a nice wooden box. Regardless of that though, they aren't generators no matter how you look at it. They are battery backups. They just store electricity, not generate it.

"Multiple Recharge Options - User is not limited to one source for recharging as it can be recharged by mechanical, solar, wind or standard power."
And if you have the means to recharge it using mechanical, solar, wind, or standard power, then you already had the means to power whatever is plugged into it to begin with. If whatever the recharging source doesn't have the capability to fully power whatever you are running directly, then it wouldn't have the power to recharge the battery faster then what it's being consumed.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776419 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:15:09 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776314 said by Doctor Olds:

Yeah, let's break physics, no more gravity or pesky velocity or other laws of the universe. :o
What are you talking about? Gravity is just a theory, like evolution.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23776314 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 07:45:07 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775874 said by NYR 56:

said by Waterbug:

If memory serves me, E=MC2. Energy in = Energy out. You can't use more energy than you produce, unless you create matter. (nuclear fusion). The transferred energy may not be the desired energy (light, heat, torque), but it is still energy.
I think we agree, you you can never have a perfect generator. Einsteins famous equation is more relevant to binding energy of an atom rather than real world energy generation, at least until fusion is useful (the observed loss of mass of 2 quantum particles binding together is accounted for by the energy released, as determined by E=mc^2). Creating matter isn't fusion though and would actual require energy (losing mass releases energy).

said by boogi man:

well if they are breaking water then yeah but that kinda defeats the purpose as i understand it and i could be completely wrong i thought they were making water and electricity. as for how H2(gas) is sold by the cubic foot is how i've seen it in high pressure bottles. of course can be sold by weight but in bottles usually by the foot
They are creating water as you said, I was just pointing out that not very much water will actually produced nor will "much" H2 be used, AFAIK. I'm assuming the 24L/min rate is at atmospheric pressure so those pressurized bottles would last quite a long time. I used the weight of the hydrogen since the math was more straight forward and a little more intuitive I think.

Anyway, sorry for the totally OT posts. Just thought I'd throw some science into it. :)
you're good man. we are trackin
--
my site]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775874 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 01:23:36 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775833 said by Waterbug:

If memory serves me, E=MC2. Energy in = Energy out. You can't use more energy than you produce, unless you create matter. (nuclear fusion). The transferred energy may not be the desired energy (light, heat, torque), but it is still energy.
I think we agree, you you can never have a perfect generator. Einsteins famous equation is more relevant to binding energy of an atom rather than real world energy generation, at least until fusion is useful (the observed loss of mass of 2 quantum particles binding together is accounted for by the energy released, as determined by E=mc^2). Creating matter isn't fusion though and would actual require energy (losing mass releases energy).

said by boogi man:

well if they are breaking water then yeah but that kinda defeats the purpose as i understand it and i could be completely wrong i thought they were making water and electricity. as for how H2(gas) is sold by the cubic foot is how i've seen it in high pressure bottles. of course can be sold by weight but in bottles usually by the foot
They are creating water as you said, I was just pointing out that not very much water will actually produced nor will "much" H2 be used, AFAIK. I'm assuming the 24L/min rate is at atmospheric pressure so those pressurized bottles would last quite a long time. I used the weight of the hydrogen since the math was more straight forward and a little more intuitive I think.

Anyway, sorry for the totally OT posts. Just thought I'd throw some science into it. :)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775833 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 01:06:50 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775778 said by TheMG:

said by BigVe:

»www.indoorgenerator.com/
Why the heck do they call those "generators"? They're just UPS with big batteries.

Still, not a cost effective solution for prolonged outages. Batteries need to be replaced every few years. Plus unlike a generator, you can't just pour more gas in it, when the batteries run out that's it, you'll need utility power to charge em back up.
Research more before you just say something you don't seem to know anything about, also I think this is a very good investment, and because it's just a another toys to play with... ;) ;)

"Multiple Recharge Options - User is not limited to one source for recharging as it can be recharged by mechanical, solar, wind or standard power."]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775778 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:43:22 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775735 said by NYR 56:

said by Ken:

said by boogi man:

the fuel cell looks cool but for 1800W 28L/M that is a LOOOOOOT of H2
Yeah, thats over 8 thousand gallons of water every 24 hours.
A liter of H2 and a liter of water are extremely different. In fact, 28 Liters of H2 would produce about 20 mL of water. That comes out to about 200 minutes to make one gallon of water.

Also, I'm not sure how they measured that fuel consumption but uncompressed, 28L is only a little more than 2 grams of hydrogen. In other words, 1 pound of hydrogen would last for 200 minutes again. I don't know how they sell hydrogen for this but compressed or liquefied, that isn't a large volume.

well if they are breaking water then yeah but that kinda defeats the purpose as i understand it and i could be completely wrong i thought they were making water and electricity. as for how H2(gas) is sold by the cubic foot is how i've seen it in high pressure bottles. of course can be sold by weight but in bottles usually by the foot
--
my site]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775735 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:30:40 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775552 said by batsona:

OK, I guess what I have to do, is put the generator outside, under the doggie-house before the snow/ice comes so that it's already out there. We have 30" of snow on the ground right now, so I can't get the generator around to the back window to feed the cable in thru the window.
Use a shovel?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775552 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 23:27:27 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775284 said by NYR 56:

Unfortunately that would use more energy than it would produce; otherwise we would have the answer to the world's energy problems. :)
If memory serves me, E=MC2. Energy in = Energy out. You can't use more energy than you produce, unless you create matter. (nuclear fusion). The transferred energy may not be the desired energy (light, heat, torque), but it is still energy.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775284 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:24:22 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775172 said by cdru:

said by drjim:

Blame it on those pesky Laws of Thermodynamics!
Laws were made to be broken!!!
Yeah, let's break physics, no more gravity or pesky velocity or other laws of the universe. :o
--
What’s the point of owning a supercar if you can’t scare yourself stupid from time to time?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23775172 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:59:23 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23774658 said by drjim:

Blame it on those pesky Laws of Thermodynamics!
Laws were made to be broken!!!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23774658 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 19:54:23 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23774348 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23774348 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:46:12 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23773965 --
One man's Magic is another man's Engineering.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23773965 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:35:44 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23773418 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23773418 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:53:01 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23773383 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23773383 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:47:41 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23773371 said by Ken:

said by boogi man:

the fuel cell looks cool but for 1800W 28L/M that is a LOOOOOOT of H2
Yeah, thats over 8 thousand gallons of water every 24 hours.
A liter of H2 and a liter of water are extremely different. In fact, 28 Liters of H2 would produce about 20 mL of water. That comes out to about 200 minutes to make one gallon of water.

Also, I'm not sure how they measured that fuel consumption but uncompressed, 28L is only a little more than 2 grams of hydrogen. In other words, 1 pound of hydrogen would last for 200 minutes again. I don't know how they sell hydrogen for this but compressed or liquefied, that isn't a large volume.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23773371 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:45:14 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23773262 said by ArgMeMatey:

5. Install a proper transfer switch. Do not use a manual breaker setup. Your switch MUST not allow a backfeed, even if you forget to operate it. By the time your generator "blows up" a line worker could already be dead.
Good advice; although there are other legal and safe options besides a transfer switch... Depending on the make and model of his service panel; there are interlock kits available that also work, and can be installed for around $100 vs the $500 and up for a transfer switch...]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23773262 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:28:11 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23773253
You really do need to have a transfer panel to prevent backfeed through the line. The added bonus is that the transfer panel gives you precise control over which circuits get the juice and which remain dark. Since some motors draw a bit of extra power when starting up, you can control that as well (my transfer panel has a gauge that shows the cumulative draw on the generator as each circuit is switched).]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23773253 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:26:00 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771981 said by batsona:

We have 30" of snow on the ground right now, so I can't get the generator around to the back window to feed the cable in thru the window.
1. Find the best place for your generator, accessible 365 days a year.

2. Look up the proper size conductor to carry the rated amperage.

3. Measure the distance between your transfer switch and your generator.

4. Calculate voltage drop over that distance and increase the conductor size as required. Buy that size cord. It won't be cheap.

5. Install a proper transfer switch. Do not use a manual breaker setup. Your switch MUST not allow a backfeed, even if you forget to operate it. By the time your generator "blows up" a line worker could already be dead.
--
USNG:
16TDN2870
Find your Lat-Long:
Geocoder]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771981 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 11:45:15 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771848 said by boogi man:

the fuel cell looks cool but for 1800W 28L/M that is a LOOOOOOT of H2
Yeah, thats over 8 thousand gallons of water every 24 hours.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771848 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 11:21:51 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771705 --
Read your contract and TOS before signing anything.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771705 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 10:52:04 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771240 before the snow/ice comes so that it's already out there. We have 30" of snow on the ground right now, so I can't get the generator around to the back window to feed the cable in thru the window.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771240 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 09:01:51 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771212 --
my site]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771212 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:51:52 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771037 said by nunya:

T

Here's what I used to do in a pinch. I had a piece of plywood about 2' by 3'. I'd set it on top of the generator. I'd set 2 medium sized bricks on that. Viola.
Better to use sandbags... a strong wind and the plywood will fling the bricks who knows where.. (of course a frozen sandbag is as hard as a brick)
--
standard disclaimers apply.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771037 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 07:33:19 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771018
I have the breaker connecting the backfeed to the generator pannel on a 20A breaker (way undersized for a 5500W generator, I know), also I realized that 12AWG wire would be OK for 20A...]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771018 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 07:15:33 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771005 »www.horizonfuelcell.com/stationary_power.htm
»www.horizonfuelcell.com/store/po···000w.htm
# Features Integrated self-humidifying PEM stack
# Rubber handles for transport
# Threaded attachments for wall-mounting
# Secure pressure system
# Quick stop access
# Programmable (weekly or standby)
# Integrated inverter DC/DC & AC/DC
# 220-230V AC @50Hz (optional 110V AC)
# 12/24 DC output for battery chargers
# USB 2.0 output for electronics
# Safety sensors for H2, temperature, and H2 pressure
# control levels

# Benefits Zero carbon emissions
# Silent operation
# Longer lifecycle over conventional systems
# Indoor use capability
# Anti-freeze heat recovery system
# 3 output sockets in one: 12V DC, 5V USB, 220V AC
# Auto regulating feed system with pressure regulators
# Can use hydride canisters or pressurized cylinders
# Compatible with our catalyzed combustion system
# Can be integrated with various renewable energies
# Can use industrial bottled gas
# Compact and easily transportable
# Easy to install and operate]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23771005 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 07:05:21 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770826 said by batsona:

I fear that alot of people are going to yell at me for this, Well of course, for some power (you know we lived with out power before) you want to risk suffocating everyone, burning the house down and killing everyone... 2 pretty big things + back feeding and maybe killing the linemen + others...

Ummm ya your gona get yelled at lol.

As for the question, you do, you get pipe, weld it up, and boom you made the exhaust as it's been said no one is going to make that because, well, it's just (sorry) a really dumb as hell idea.

Buy a carport... thing should work in the rain snow, etc fine though. I'll guess you have no garage so that's why you don't run it in that (ya still not the best but a lot better than the basement)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770826 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 02:45:52 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770819
Here is an economy setup.

»www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2xMWWRzEaM


Or get one of these.

»www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Hpvc7h77zc

--
What’s the point of owning a supercar if you can’t scare yourself stupid from time to time?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770819 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 02:33:33 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770570 said by nunya:

Get a transfer switch! There is a major propensity for you to kill someone or yourself by improperly "rigging" a backfeed into the service panel. ...

Both of your proposals are extremely dangerous. Either one has the potential to kill or severely injure someone.
AMEN on the transfer switch. Do you realize the number of people you put at risk by connecting that generator in the way you do? Yourself, anyone in your home, your neighbors, utility workers, firefighters, etc. I'm sure your local utility, fire department, and building inspectors would have plenty to say about your generator rigging.

The generators on our fire apparatus are mounted on the top above the pump compartment. They are exposed to the elements and have no problem operating in any weather.
--
Remember the 2008 firefighters and police LODD's in St. Louis:
PO Ballman, Sgt. Biggs, FF Hummert, Sgt. King, FF Riggins... all murdered...RIP brothers.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770570 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:40:22 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770432 said by drjim:

Wasn't there a thread here about building an outdoor generator shelter a few months back?
we need a thread for some pressure treated wood, and some screws???]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770432 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 23:44:45 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770293 --
One man's Magic is another man's Engineering.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770293 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 23:01:56 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770286 said by BigVe:

»www.indoorgenerator.com/
Why the heck do they call those "generators"? They're just UPS with big batteries.

Still, not a cost effective solution for prolonged outages. Batteries need to be replaced every few years. Plus unlike a generator, you can't just pour more gas in it, when the batteries run out that's it, you'll need utility power to charge em back up.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770286 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 22:59:51 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770130 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770130 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 22:19:00 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770014 www.indoorgenerator.com/]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23770014 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 21:49:18 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769876 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769876 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 21:10:56 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769865
»www.suncast.com/outdoorstorage/s···eds.aspx]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769865 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 21:07:55 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769837
Here's what I used to do in a pinch. I had a piece of plywood about 2' by 3'. I'd set it on top of the generator. I'd set 2 medium sized bricks on that. Viola.

Get a transfer switch! There is a major propensity for you to kill someone or yourself by improperly "rigging" a backfeed into the service panel. 12/3 isn't even the proper size wire for that set. I really don't want to know how you are connecting it.
Transfer switches are not that expensive, especially considering you could burn your house down or kill someone. I install manual transfer switches with an outdoor inlet for less than $500, T & M both included.

Both of your proposals are extremely dangerous. Either one has the potential to kill or severely injure someone.
--
Looks like Reverend Wright got his wish - God Damn America.
Nancy Pelosi - House Minority Leader 2010
Harry Reid - Senate Minority Leader 2010]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769837 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 20:55:35 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769835 said by batsona:

My plan: Have an adequate supply of fire extinguishers available, and I can even point a wireless webcam at the generator so I know it's safely operating.
I've seen plenty of indoor generators, but I don't think I've ever seen one in an unsprinklered area.

By the time you notice the fire on the webcam, your plan should be to get everyone out of the house.

Fire extinguishers are great, but nobody would advise you to head into a basement to locate and use one.

And don't forget that during a power failure, the fire department may be delayed due to false alarms, getting people out of elevators, and so on.

Put the generator under a metal folding table if you must, but leave it outside.
--
USNG:
16TDN2870
Find your Lat-Long:
Geocoder]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769835 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 20:55:16 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769635
why not just get one of those plastic dog houses and stick the genny in it? just make sure the exhaust cannot touch/blow on the sides.
--
Lack of Preparation on YOUR Part does NOT Constitute an Emergency on Mine!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769635 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 19:58:34 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769629 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769629 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 19:56:12 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769623
A portable generator is most definitely NOT rated for indoor use or for permanent installation. Nor is it safe.

In addition, there are concerns other than exhaust. Ventilation and cooling is another issue. Engines produce a lot of heat, and whatever room the generator goes in will get pretty hot fairly quickly.

The fuel system is also different for indoor rated generators, to ensure fumes do not leak into the room, and that in the event of an engine overheat or other failure, that the fuel tank will not catch fire.

Be aware that installation/use of a non indoor rated generator, if anything goes wrong, will most likely NOT be covered by your insurance company. In other words if this thing catches fire and your house burns down, you're fucked.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769623 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 19:53:57 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769597
Run your generator outside. I've done so in pouring rain with a tarp thrown over the electrical parts of it and it did just fine. Just let the engine get plenty of fresh air for combustion and cooling and make the generator itself, and the box with the wiring parts (circuit breakers, outlets) rain resistant. Then run it the way it was meant to operate, with a lot of fresh air OUTSIDE.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769597 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 19:43:49 EDT Re: Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769581 said by batsona:

I fear that alot of people are going to yell at me for this..
Well there is a good reason why, it's very unsafe. It's not just a risk of fire you should be worried about, but carbon monoxide poisoning. If you want to build a free standing shelter outside, that would still probably be illegal, but would be much less dangerous than putting it in your basement.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Re-Generator-in-basement-23769581 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 19:39:23 EDT Generator in basement... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Generator-in-basement-23769557
I'd really like to run the generator in a dry place so I can use it during rain, or after a snow/ice storm. We keep coming closer and closer to losing power in the winter, so I need to re-visit this issue. My previous assumption was that we would only ever lose power in the summertime..

Question: Who manufacturers exaust systems that I can use to vent my generator to the outside while running it in my basement. My plan: Have an adequate supply of fire extinguishers available, and I can even point a wireless webcam at the generator so I know it's safely operating. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/Generator-in-basement-23769557 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 19:26:20 EDT