Reserve power options

[SIR VEYOR]

In another thread, there is talk of NG supply being compromised, temporarily depleted, etc.

So how about some of the better fall back options that are under $5k, and somewhat flexible. So solar, micro hydro, etc are pretty much out. Wth those already, you’re not too dependent on local infrastructure for support anyway.

1 Gas/diesel generator (includes your welding trucks)

2 PTO generator - needs a tractor or similar first but may be better than #1 in some cases

3 wood heat - furnace/fireplace. not flexible

4 Plumbing a reserve tank as part of the system to give you capacity after gas pressure drops for that area. Not flexible, and it’s typically thought that the pressure would last for a while as not many people would be drawing on it if there is no electricity for most ignition systems

5 can propane tanks be used to run NG in a pinch? I know different ports/jets should be used, but just how interchangeable are they?

What else is out there?

As an aside, I saw a Stirling hit n miss engine in a southern SK town sitting on a pallet by their trash bins. Doubt it’s being thrown out, and the collectors wouldn’t touch it for weight either.

[kennymo]

5. Natural gas/Propane can be interchangeable but there’s some parts swapping involved. Orifice size will change, and you’ll need suitable pressure regulators depending on your propane source. (And maybe a different gas valve on heating appliances?) I know some BBQ’s now come with inaccessible orifices, but I think most of the heating equipment is still convertible....

I’d think an alternative heating device on propane might be a better simpler option? Or there are kerosene convection heaters that can be used (relatively safely) indoors and don’t require power for a fan.

Stirling hit and miss?

[SIR VEYOR]

5. Natural gas/Propane can be interchangeable but there’s some parts swapping involved. Orifice size will change, and you’ll need suitable pressure regulators depending on your propane source. (And maybe a different gas valve on heating appliances?) I know some BBQ’s now come with inaccessible orifices, but I think most of the heating equipment is still convertible....

I’d think an alternative heating device on propane might be a better simpler option? Or there are kerosene convection heaters that can be used (relatively safely) indoors and don’t require power for a fan.

Stirling hit and miss?

Ok, so there really isn’t a good way to swap propane and NG in an outage sort of situation, especially safely.

As for the sterlings, this might be the best explanation



Still used on a lot of fishing boats (LW should be able to confirm)

And has a large following is some areas. They’re almost always on display at exhibitions, antique tractor shows, tractor pulls, etc.

[kennymo]

^^ Yeah, there’s one of those decorating the lawn at the farm (cracked piston), but it’s not a Stirling motor. Grandpa used to have about ten hit and miss motors in running condition in his shop.

[Billythreefeathers]

going to be replacing my gas generators at the ranch with a solar power pack combination,, will power 110v LED lights, LED TV, laptops, charge phones, and other small electrical devices.

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panel will recharge the power pack during the day and we can draw power 24 and 7

we use very little electric power as fridge and stove are propane