disaster planning

MIke Wood · May 23, 2023

Just had a few questions about power outages and what everyone is doing. i live in an area that doesnt get too many power outages and they are usually short lived. but as i look at my tank that seems to be thriving and on cruise control i think about the what ifs. i have seen alot of DIY battery stuff. i am a nurse- not an electrician and some of the literature is confusion to me, so i dont think this is the right route for me.

Ive been looking into generators and would like some input. i have a small AIO (40 gallon). running a 200w heater, a nero 5, and a small dc return pump. would an inverter generator be ok for this equipment? i have read a few things that you need inverter generators for dc types stuff and "sensitive electronics".

any recommended brands? saw a few cheaper models on amazon? anyone using these?

thanks.

MarineandReef Jaron · May 23, 2023

I would recommend a battery backup for your powerheads as a start. I don't think AI makes a native battery back up but the Ice Cap Battery Back up will work. https://www.marineandreef.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=RIC00722
Here is a thread on using the battery with the Nero 5 https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/nero-5-works-with-new-icecap-battery-backup.698170/

The advantage of the battery backup is that it automatically turns on when the power is out so if an outage happens while you are away you will have 12-24 hours to react. That will give you time to get your generator in place and it will likely cover most power outages on its own.

For a generator, I would recommend a propane or dual-fuel generator. Propane generators are more tolerant of neglect, so if you don't plan on running your generator for a bit every month or so, then propane will be a better option.

MIke Wood · May 24, 2023

MarineandReef Jaron said:
I would recommend a battery backup for your powerheads as a start. I don't think AI makes a native battery back up but the Ice Cap Battery Back up will work. https://www.marineandreef.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=RIC00722
Here is a thread on using the battery with the Nero 5 https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/nero-5-works-with-new-icecap-battery-backup.698170/

The advantage of the battery backup is that it automatically turns on when the power is out so if an outage happens while you are away you will have 12-24 hours to react. That will give you time to get your generator in place and it will likely cover most power outages on its own.

For a generator, I would recommend a propane or dual-fuel generator. Propane generators are more tolerant of neglect, so if you don't plan on running your generator for a bit every month or so, then propane will be a better option.

thanks for the recommendations, much appreciated. I did a lot of reading last night and ended up with a dual fuel generator. will look into a smaller battery backups but my tank has handled a few hours of down time in the past. and most of the outages have only been an hour tops. the power company does give us a fairly accurate estimate so if its longer than 3 or 4 hours i can hook up the generator or have a neighbor do so if I'm away.

FishTruck · May 24, 2023

If you plan on using a portable generator, don't skimp on the heavy duty electrical cords.... I ran my old 300 on a portable for a week and found some really HOT cords

MrGisonni · May 24, 2023

And ice cap battery backup would be a nice start. A marine deep cycle battery and a small solar charger will keep your dc pump running days if needed

FishTruck · May 24, 2023

One more thing... consider popping in a couple of battery powered air pumps when you are on vacation...

They automatically turn on if there is a power outage, cost nothing, and can keep your tank aerated for days. If nobody is there to witness the loss of power, these are a cheap lifesaver.