Recent content by nu2me

Factory-style Zerostart block heater recessed male receptacle kit w/cover and boot 8605688, available at truck and diesel parts houses, for example: http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detail/ZRO0/8605688/N0650.oap?ck=Search_N0650_-1_-1&pt=N0650&ppt=C0076 It's worth noting that the special male...

The fact that you don't have temperature extremes works in your favor, but seven years is nothing short of miraculous. (Then, I've had batteries in summer cars that lasted seven years, too.) I used to work on gennies and other small engines for a fleet, and wouldn't think of diagnosing a...

The first thing you need to do is figure out how much current your loads will draw. HVAC/heat pump (some have built-in resistance heaters), stove and water heater, plus well pump (if any) are the big ones. In all likelihood, you may already be beyond the $800 figure. Then, there are the 120-v...

An in-op dump valve on my old Hotpoint caused water to blow past the pump seals.

Dedicated generator sub-panel is the way to go, particularly if the system will be transferring loads in your absence. Properly done, you won't need to be concerned about overloading and balancing. Remember, you only have to overload one leg to smoke a gennie.

Smart meter for time-of-day pricing, more info at: https://www.itron.com/na/PublishedContent/OpenWay%20Centron%20Meter.pdf Looks like was installed by D.L. Co, which may not be the current PoCo.

A few further points: These engines are noisy by nature because the finned cylinders and heads must have direct access to cooling air. If your generator has seen only occasional use, (not worn and loose enough that it's using oil), a short-block isn't going to change things. If you do go in...

RLM fixtures are still being manufactured, and "experienced" examples are highly collectible -- check prices on the net. Those particular shallow-dome fixtures are uncommon, intended to be hung in finished spaces on relatively short lengths of conduit -- the slots are for up-lighting...