FishProfiles.com Message Forums

Our power just went out. How long before we can expect a "fishtastrophy." Any tips to help prevent one. We have 55g and 2 29g tanks. Thanks

How cold is it outside where you live?

><>

Hi,
As the heavy winters set in, or, the summer thunder storms and hurricanes, power outages can be a real concern.

The route you take to resolve the problem with your aquariums depends upon your bioload. If you are pushing the limits of the tank, then you will have to take more expensive precautions.

You have two main things to be concerned about during an outtage. Oxygenation (circulation) and Temperature.

Oxygenation and circulation can be accomplished wtih a simple 12volt Direct Current (12VDC) air pump. They come in a variety of sizes that range from small ones running off of flashlight batteries, to the larger ones that run off of a 12V car type battery. Many fish stores carry the smaller ones, and the larger ones can be purchased at any store that sells fishing equipment and supplies. They are used to keep bait alive while out fishing and plug or clamp into the boat's electrical system.

Temperature is the problem. They make 12VDC heaters, but they are not designed for aquariums, and don't seem to come with thermostats.

Generators that provide 115V AC and 12VDC or just 115VAC are the best long term choices. Decide what you want running during an outage and then total the wattages of each item, then purchase the next size larger generator.
Find a place outside your home, on your property, and build a "dog house" to cover it. Run a large, heavy duty, extension cord into the house to a "central area" and plug it into a distribution box or heavy duty power strip. Then plug your appliances into it. This simple way, prevents problems should the power return. You would have unplug the appliance, and then plug it back into it's origional outlet.
An alternative to the generator is an "Inverter." It changes 12VDC into 115VAC. The drawback is that they use alot of DC to produce the AC voltage and can quickly drain a typical car battery.

Frank

-->>> The Confidence of Amateurs, is the Envy of Professionals <<<--

Power is back on tanks are good. I didn't know they made battery powered pumps. Thanks for the tips Frank.

you could also consider buying a UPS battery backup for your tanks. I have one on each of mine and they give an hour or more of power to the filter and/or heaters. the larger the UPS, the more power you have on battery.

---

"That's the trouble with political jokes in this country... they get elected!" -- Dave Lippman