Inverter Generator

I need an inverter generator that can run atleast 5 400 watt bulbs/w ballasts and all reliably, whats the least amount of electrical output it should have? 5 400 bulbs, 2000 initial watts... but how big of a cushion should i go with im on a budget so idk whether to go with a 2200, 2500,2800, or higher...
 

hotrodharley

Well-Known Member
If you're on a budget forget any generator. Are you thinking of running one up to 18 hours a day? If you are thinking of powering a grow, meaning months of no less than 12 hours a day, you would require a diesel. A commercial type diesel like a backup generator uses in blackouts. You better go with all the volts/amperage one can muster or buy a box of replacement brushes and read up on it. Plus the armatures are no cheap action. Then generator noise and vibration. Surely any nearby neighbor could appreciate that.

Thinking underground?
 
I need an inverter generator that can run atleast 5 400 watt bulbs/w ballasts and all reliably, whats the least amount of electrical output it should have? 5 400 bulbs, 2000 initial watts.
 
If you're on a budget forget any generator. Are you thinking of running one up to 18 hours a day? If you are thinking of powering a grow, meaning months of no less than 12 hours a day, you would require a diesel. A commercial type diesel like a backup generator uses in blackouts. You better go with all the volts/amperage one can muster or buy a box of replacement brushes and read up on it. Plus the armatures are no cheap action. Then generator noise and vibration. Surely any nearby neighbor could appreciate that.

Thinking underground?
im really on a 600 budget with the generator, but if i have to i could do 800,1000. i only need it to run for 1 to 2 months, and with the inverter generators the noise and vibrations cut dramatically, same with the weight. the prices vary, so i just need to know what the least amount of watts i can use to power 5 400s and still be completely safe
 

Chicago Gooner

Active Member
Why do you need inverter generator? Inverter generators are used to run electronic equipment, for running lights you need a straight up single phase unit. Inverter generators run quieter because they're usually fully enclosed. If you're looking for an inverter unit, you'll need to spend a lot more than a grand. What is the amperage requirement of your entire setup?
 
Why do you need inverter generator? Inverter generators are used to run electronic equipment, for running lights you need a straight up single phase unit. Inverter generators run quieter because they're usually fully enclosed. If you're looking for an inverter unit, you'll need to spend a lot more than a grand. What is the amperage requirement of your entire setup?
sound is the main reason... if i ran straight single phase, and was atleast 200 yards away from the nearest neighbor do you think id run into any problems at 74 decibals at 23 ft? thats 74 decibals at 8 yards away.. so if you deducted 15% every ten yards...63 at 20yards..52 at 30..41 at 40...30 at 50...19 at 60...8 at 70... etc. If im two football feilds away no one heres a thing...right?
 

Chicago Gooner

Active Member
You're right but like I said, $1000 is not enough for a fully enclosed 2500W unit. The two brands I'd recommend looking into is Honda and Subaru.
 
You're right but like I said, $1000 is not enough for a fully enclosed 2500W unit. The two brands I'd recommend looking into is Honda and Subaru.
Thinking bout getting this one right herehttp://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1v/R-202380944/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&keyword=inverter+generator&storeId=10051#.UD297tZlSKw ... and running a 1000 and two 600's off it, i just really need to know from somebody whos used one similar if the wattage is what it says it is, with that id still have n extra 300 watts but if they actually run lower than the number on the box ill def need something bigger
 
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