Power outage question

R

Raki

AC Members
Jan 17, 2004
102
0
0
68
Philadelphia Pa
Visit site
Now that the summer storm season is soon to be upon us there is one question that is on my mind. We frequently have power outages here from the storms. Most only last an hour or so but there have been times when the power is out for a day or three. So how long can a tank go without circulation? I'm not worried about a temp drop since the "room" Temp. would be in the 80's. Would it help to "swish" the surface of the water around periodically to aerate?:confused:
 
I've found keeping stocking levels at a low number that you know will be able to survive a power outage helps. As for corals and invertebrates, maybe keep some battery equipment on hand for circulation. I know battery air pumps are readily available, but I assume someone makes a battery operated pump that can substitute a powerhead.
 
I just had two scheduled power outages last week while PG&E was installing new 'switches' in my neighborhood. Each outage was scheduled to last two hours so I wasn't too worried. As it turns out, each outage was only one hour so I didn't do anything except hook up my battery powered air pump. I had my generator tuned up and ready to go however, just in case the outages lasted longer....as they've been known to do when PG&E is involved. Of course, it helped that I knew the outages were coming since they sent out notices in the mail; I worry far more about the unscheduled outages that have been known to last for a day or more.

The battery powered air pumps are great...and cheap! They automatically turn on when the power goes out and will keep your water moving and airated. I think mine was made by Penn-Plax.

But, if your outages regularly last for days instead of hours, a generator is the way to go IMO. I picked up a Coleman Powermate 1850 at Home Depot for around $350. It's enough to run everything on the tank except the MH lights, plus it'll run my computer, satellite TV, refrigerator, lights etc. Of course, you don't have to buy a generator; you can rent them for about $35/day at most rental shops.
 
Last edited:
We lost power 4 times last year, between 12 and 72 hours each. Those little air pumps are amazing. Kept the reef alive for 3 days.

Nonetheless, I didn't argue when my father in law offered to buy us a generator;)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
AquariaCentral.com
Top Bottom