Backup

I'm considering purchasing an APC UPS so that I can run a Koralia 3 for up to 8 hours during a power outage. That should give me enough time to get home and hook up an inverter to a car for a longer term solution if necessary.

I was wondering who is using a UPS, battery back up air pumps running airstones or some other solution to run tanks during a power outage.

 

I am running an APC UPS and love it. I run my return pump and heater off of it. They aren't exactly cheap, but peace of mind is priceless. This is close to the one I run: Newegg.com - APC SU1400RMXLB3U 1400 VA 1050 Watts (6) NEMA 5-15R Outlets Smart-UPS XL 1400VA RM 3U 120V - Black - UPS
I can run my pump and heater for about 24hours off of it. Only downside is that a replacement battery will run about $200 depending on which one you get.

 

You probally won't have to worry about this, but I had one a while back for my computer and I plugged it in and non-stop beeping. I found out that my house has old wiring. Instead of rewiring the house, I decided to return it. The house is older though. Otherwise I'd love to have one for peace of mind.

 

I actually bought a 1200 watt gasoline generator thats at walmart.. It was $200.. totally worth it for the tank and more if and when the power quits..

 

yea i got a generator also >,< figured after iread this post earlier my power went out >,<

 

Depending on the UPS you purchased, the battery may have been dead and that was the warning that it needed to be replaced. Sometimes they are sent with dead batteries...so much for quality control...

 

I have an inverter that I'll hook up to a vehicle for long term outages. I was thinking about the UPS for the short outages that may occur if I'm not home.

Is anybody using these? Hagen Battery Operated Air Pump Reviews
Not sure if they automtically kick on during an outage.

 

Phew. That one's expensive. I was thinking about this one.
Amazon.com: Back-ups Rs 1300VA LCD 120V: Electronics

 

i have this




I run my ATO and Autodoser off of it. I let it run for four hours once and got tired of the beeping.

 

All APC UPSs are well constructed, but I suggest doing the math to make sure it is what you need/want. Normally you can find graphs the are time vs watts for all UPSs. Looks just like head vs gph graphs for pumps. Choosing the right UPS is like choosing the right equipment for your tank. Do lots of research and don't settle.