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11blade's avatar

That was a great report on the reality of living in a power down situation. I'm grateful the hurricanes here on the Gulf Coast don't come with ice! Gulf Coast has also had winter fun times, but NOTHING like what u are dealing with. I've used a generator more times in the last 3 years than the last 40 living here. Propane dual fuel is the best, not having to worry about gas going bad & clogging carb. You don't have to run gen power thru your panel ($$). Get commercial grade or RV extension cords 30/50 amp, then split them to minimum 20 amp cords inside the building. Also, right now, don't wait on this, find and buy an Olympian Wave propane heater. The 6000 BTU, 8000 BTU is better units will provide almost complete combustion (safe for indoor use) and superior heat from a 20 lb bbq propane tank. The units are not cheap because they have a catalyst mat (platinum) in them that allows the propane to burn without a flame. If you've ever seen an alcohol burner flame this is what the Wave burning looks like. The Wave heaters don't need electricity to run. RV stores have the Wave heaters. Be sure to order or obtain a cover for them when not in use. Dust accumulating on the platinum wool mat will affect efficiency.

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Neil Shooter's avatar

Thanks for these tips :)

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11blade's avatar

You're welcome on the tips. My water backup for hurricanes or winter freeze is multiple food grade 5 gallon buckets with lids. They are just at the weight limit for me to lift but if I have to move them from bathroom to kitchen I throw them on a furniture 4 wheel dolly to save my back. I bought mine from a commercial supply place, brand new. You could find a commercial kitchen and ask if you could have their empties, scrutinizing what was in it. Something that left an odor would rule out using it for washing and toilet only. The buckets of mayonnaise, oils,etc will be good grade plastic, superior to Canada Tire buckets, to store potable water.

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Neil Shooter's avatar

More great advice! Yes, have to be careful if the water is for drinking :)

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Rusty's avatar

I’ve been through two MAJOR ice storms like this. No power for 3 1/2 days each time, so not bad. Thank goodness for fireplaces!! It is like camping, but camping is more fun when it’s warm😉!!!

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Neil Shooter's avatar

Absolutely!

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drea.m.r.76's avatar

"She was like the water that freezes inside a rock and breaks it apart. It was no more her fault than it is the fault of the water when the rock shatters." (I always kinda related to this line.) Oh... and my God, I hope you're all okay! 😳♥️❄️

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Neil Shooter's avatar

Thank you! Yes, we're all fine! There are still 100,000 people without power though, today, a week later! :(

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drea.m.r.76's avatar

😞

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