[Shop-talk] Standby Generators

[James Stone]

I would like to set up a relatively inexpensive standby generator for my
vacation home.  The house uses propane for heat, hot water and cooking, so the
logical thing to do would be to get a propane powered generator or convert one
to run on propane.  I really dont need much power; more than anything, I want
to keep the house from freezing if we lose power while we are away, so Id be
happy if all it powered was the furnace,   But, all I have found are pretty
substantial units that cost close to $2,000, which is more than I want to
spend for something like this.  Does anyone know if it is possible to convert
a smaller generator to become a standby unit?  Are there any other options I
should consider?

Thanks.