Comments: Gadgets for surviving the next blackout

Elliott Systems makes very reliable quiet generators for home use (I've actually got one of the 12kW models). These things are computer controlled, test themselves weekly, and automatically switch on the power if there's a loss of grid service. The best thing about having a relatively large unit is that as long as you don't use the air conditioning or electric clothes dryer, you don't need to worry about how much stuff you're running and how much power the thing can supply. The unit comes enclosed in a metal box to muffle noise, and it's frame has built in skids to keep the body from rusting if the unit is sitting in a puddle or something.

I chose this unit due to a combination of factors, but the sum of it's cool features and high reliability should make it the geek's generator of choice ;-) It's abit pricy, but worth it areas where the power goes out 2 or 3 times a year.

http://www.elliottpowersystems.com/products_mps_series.html




Posted by Dave Weinstein at August 18, 2003 09:28 PM

http://www.gizmodo.com/archives/008277.php#008277