Power BACKUPS

[SnowManSnow]

what size backup do I need to run 2 mjs and a 300w heater? I know its COMPLICATED to figure it all out.. but what do you guys use? My dad has a BIG generator for long term outtages.

B

 

[Anonymous]

what size backup do I need to run 2 mjs and a 300w heater? I know its COMPLICATED to figure it all out.. but what do you guys use? My dad has a BIG generator for long term outtages.

B

I think the heater will suck the power the most. In an emergency situation, I'd want to keep just the bare essentials just to keep things going. You're in Alabama, right? It doesn't get too cold there to begin with, right? ...just a thought and MHO.

 

[SnowManSnow]

right on. heater would be secondary. i would think powerheads would be priority... even those actually produce a decent amount of heat.

B

 

[SnowManSnow]

oh.. and your talking around 10F at the coldest in mid winter

 

[Anonymous]

right on. heater would be secondary. i would think powerheads would be priority... even those actually produce a decent amount of heat.

B

Yup. I'd even think about an air pump. If you said you're set for long term, don't worry about the air pump. I think some even stock a battery operated air pump. One of the biggest things that kill a reef tank is lack of O2 in the water.

I'd think about an APC Unit. Maybe like a 1500 or so. I want to eventually do this for my tank. Good thinking!

 

[Anonymous]

Battery-powered air pumps are great for a short-term circulation solution. They are cheap and can be set up to automatically come on in case of a power disruption.

 

[Anonymous]

Battery-powered air pumps are great for a short-term circulation solution. They are cheap and can be set up to automatically come on in case of a power disruption.

See! I knew I wasn't dreaming those up! :lol: Thanks!

 

[SnowManSnow]

I have an extra backup here at the office that is 120VAC 60HZ 450w Max

would that last longer and be more effective than a battery pump would be????

B

 

[Anonymous]

I have an extra backup here at the office that is 120VAC 60HZ 450w Max

would that last longer and be more effective than a battery pump would be????

B

No idea... and if it's older, chances are the battery won't last as long either, so you can no longer go by the original specs.

 

[Anonymous]

If it's not a true inline (read: non modified sign wave) you'll be fine, but if it's a modified sign wave(a normal UPS) it will cause pumps to overheat.

 

[Anonymous]

There is a good DIY battery back up on that other reef web site. Let me find the link.

 

[Anonymous]

Here you go.

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthrea ... adid=64918