Run Silent Run Deep: Generators for SHTF

The idea of having a generator for T-SHTF is not a new one, I probably wrote my first article about them almost 10 years ago.  Yet as technology changes the way we approach using generators should change.  We now have generators that can run on dual fuel (gasoline / propane), very powerful inverter generators that run super quiet, other generators that change their output based on the load (running even quieter).  Given all these factors I think knowing two things helps:

1- Generators can and will be a great solution after T-SHTF, maybe not a long term (months or years) solution but they can be a great asset.

2- Given their price point and availability, generators should be added (in layers like I will describe below) to any reasonable Bug IN (or OUT) SHTF plan.

The Generators I Own

Champion 9000 Dual Fuel
Price: Around $1000 at the time of purchase at Costco, not sure if they stock this one anymore
Purpose: Whole House Generator via transfer switch
Benefits: Can run entire home including well pump in the event of a power outage, dual fuel so also can run on propane.  Electric start, cable from transfer switch plugs right into the side of the unit (no extension cords).
Downside:  LOUD.  Would be sending a signal for a long distance that we had a generator running and while not an issue during normal times, during an extended SHTF this could be problematic.

Champion 4850 Inverter Dual Fuel
Price: $900 at Tractor Supply
Purpose:  Power the RV via 30Amp connector, can power limited items in the home and even the well pump (1/2 hp pump) to keep water filling up the pressure tank.
Benefits:  Electric start, inverter generator means extremely quiet while running, smaller size means more mobile and is efficient on fuel consumption.
Downside:  If plugged into the transfer switch (50Amp to 30Amp connector) breakers would have to manually be shut off in the home so as not to overload the unit.  Priority would be given to the well pump and appliances that had food inside them.  Things like the microwave and dryer would be inoperable.

Honda EU2000i (now the 2200i)
Price:  $1200 at Northern Tool
Purpose:  The backup plan at the house or while going mobile.  Extension cord use only.
Benefits:  Extremely lightweight and quiet, has an eco mode which adjusts to the draw needed making it about half as loud as the Champion Inverter.  Could easily take on a bugout or lend to a neighbor to run their fridge.
Downside:  With it’s small stature it really can’t be faulted for it’s minimal output capability.  Extension cord use only and more than the price of the other generators (while being the 3rd tier option).

My Layered Plan

The plan is pretty straightforward in that the big loud genny is the primary option.  I have enough fuel on site to run it sporadically (couple hours a day) for months if need be.  Long term power outages and such but truth be told the longest outage we’ve ever experienced has been just under 24 hours.  Should things get a little dicey I’d switch to the invertor generator just because it runs so quiet, but that would be limiting what I could utilize in the home.  The Honda obviously, that’s as needed only.

The Bottom Line

Practical preparedness:  high probability  / low impact events like an extended power outage because of a blizzard means having generators on site is a definite advantage.  Should the zombies and golden horde start knocking down the gates (I don’t have gates, btw) then maybe it will be time to reassess generator usage.  Until then the piece of mind knowing one has power when one should need it is comforting.