Faced with the ensuing Hurricane ( Harvey ) , the wife starts asking me how I will provide power to keep H.R.H. “comfortable “ , as they say here "sheltering in place” . .
Yes, she’s no camper … not anymore . Old now , can’t take the heat , and forbid the power goes out , she makes my life MISERABLE , as if my only purpose in life is to keep her comfortable … ( Spoiled ) Quite frankly , if we hadn’t been together for 42 years , I’d trade her in on a new model ( quieter running )
All I’m hearing now is “We (me) should go out and buy a generator “ … Which immediately started the conversation over which is better , a generator , or some solar panels and batteries . She wants something to run a refrigerator , a couple fans , and some AC , plus keep her I-pad and phone charged…
So I’m thinking , put her in the trailer , small AC ( Lots of insulation ) , perhaps buy one of those little electric truck fridges ( ?) , fans, lights less of a problem ( all LED lights now ) Less Electricity to run than even thinking about plugging in the house . Smaller system needed to accomplish such a Herculean labor .
The problem is the decision , Solar or generator … Both have their pro’s and cons , the generators needing gas ( lots of gas) and the Solar needing lots of panels , and batteries , and sunny days . This is one of those rare cases where " money is no object “ when it comes to providing for her worship’s needs … Whichever system we choose , I will be solely responsible for its maintenance and operation, so we have to get it right .. My concerns are as always , fuel handling safety , and the hand starting of a balky engine , vs. dealing with batteries and cloudy days .. Either one , the trailer still may be the best opportunity to provide without Investing in a major system … I have only a little idea of what i'm doing , and need the learned opinions of those who have more experience in these areas…
I have her making a “ master” list of what she wants (
) then we’ll add up the watts and see what size we need ..That’s as far as we’ve come … yet ...
The real question is , what would you do in a similar situation ... ? Your opinions would be greatly appreciated !!!