The Survival Podcast Chad Kuntz on Back Up Generators – Friday Flashbacks – Epi-70
Mar 28, 2025
Chad Kuntz, an electrical engineer with a decade of experience in backup power systems, shares expertise on selecting and installing generators. He discusses the vital choices between portable and whole-house generators, emphasizing proper sizing and fuel options like propane and diesel. Creative solutions for power outages are explored, including unique methods for monitoring food spoilage. Kuntz also highlights the benefits of fixed generators and inverter-style options, ensuring safe operation and reliability for homes.
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Sizing a Generator
- Prioritize essential loads like well pumps, heating/cooling, and sump pumps when sizing a generator.
- Consider lifestyle adjustments during outages to conserve energy.
Oversized Generators
- A 20-kilowatt generator is excessive for most homes.
- Salespeople often overestimate generator needs, so calculate your actual load.
Calculating Load
- Check appliance nameplate ratings for wattage to calculate total load.
- Multiply the total connected load by 60-70% for a realistic estimate, accounting for load diversity.