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UK winter blackouts = making me physically ill with worry

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Joe90
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19 Oct 2013, 4:33 pm

chris5000 wrote:
if you get a generator look for one that runs on natural gas, they cost a little more but once its set up its always ready to go because gas lines stay pressurized even when the power is out
propane is also good because you can store large amounts in a small space


That's what I'm intending to do. The cost doesn't worry me a lot, as I do work and so I might as well spend my money on something useful for me and my family. :)


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pezar
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20 Oct 2013, 10:57 am

Here in the US, old Honda generators are plentiful, and many were totally made in Japan, so they'll run forever. There's a place that sells propane conversion kits for US customers. You will probably have to look for a UK supplier, though. If you're just powering a laptop and DVD player, you can get away with a 1000 watt generator. Used Honda gennies can be had for as little as $150 here in California. Check Craigslist.

Also, you will need other supplies. Buy a LED headlamp, and a battery powered AM/FM radio. You should also stock some canned food in case the markets close for a while due to computerized registers not working. You will also need to buy a small LED flashlight in case you're at work when the blackout hits. Buy a battery operated alarm clock so you can still wake up to go to work.