Best Off-Grid Generator Setup

Depending on what you’re looking for, having a power supply for an off grid home or cabin can be a lifesaver

Our Recommendation: A Dual Fuel Portable Generator

As an example, and because it’s a product we frequently promote, we’ll be talking specifically about the Onan P9500i from Cummins. With nearly 10 kW of power and a huge number of hookup options, this portable generator offers huge value for an off-grid set-up with a price tag lower than $1500. Being a dual fuel generator, this unit can run on either gasoline or propane, which gives you more options and longer run times.

This unit is also equipped with a battery changer and remote start feature, but this doesn’t have as much value in an off-grid setup where that battery isn’t being charged. Of course, the beauty of a portable unit is that it can be easily moved and serve many different purposes, so a feature like this may be more valuable in other circumstances. 

If a home electrical setup of some kind already exists, it is possible to wire this generator in with a manual transfer switch, but that kind of setup will turn that $1500 project into something quite a bit more expensive.



Positioning, Layouts and General Use

The more common use case for this generator will be using the five AC outlets (1x 120/240V 30A and 2x  Duplex 120V 20A)  with extension cords for whatever you’ve got “rigged up.” This can be as clean or as rugged as you want it to be, since all you really need to do is run extensions. Unsurprisingly, it is NOT recommended to run this unit (or any generator) indoors or near windows or doors. Pretty much all generators, including portable generators, require air intake and also exhaust harmful fumes. Avoid inhaling these fumes. 

Because the P9500i is a dual fuel generator, the odds are very good that you’ll end up using this in conjunction with a propane tank at some point. Because of the limited volume of the existing fuel tank that uses gasoline, a propane tank will allow for longer uninterrupted use switching fuel sources is as simple as a single turn of a knob on the unit. It is probably worth considering the fact that generators generally perform better on flat surfaces as well.



In Conclusion

There are several pretty great options here for backup power that scale with total output and overall costs. At the end of the day, you’ll need to identify a solution that fits into your circumstances and budget. The P9500i is moderately priced, easy to set up and very manageable. With its dual fuel capability, you’ll have options for maintaining power for extended periods of time. 

To learn more about these generators take a look at info and specs here on our website, or give us a call today to learn more. Hurricane Home Solutions services a majority of New York and Pennsylvania, helping homeowners with their backup power needs.