Using an inverter during power outages

[Zopilote]

Unfortunately, I've moved into an area that is plagued with
power outages and need a backup for my tank. I'm
looking into a generator but have found that there are
battery powered inverters which can be used to keep my
heater on during an outage. Has anyone used an inverter
and will just keeping the temperature constant when having
an outage be sufficient? The last outage was 56 hours in
June. It was warm then and there was no need to have the
heater going. Now it's getting colder.

I have battery powered aerators which keep the oxygen
level up.

Your comments and suggestions, as always, welcome.

[wharfrat48]

I use an inverter as my power back-up. Depending on what size inverter and what type of battery you are using, you can power just about anything. Find out how much power the items that you want to run require, and buy an inverter capable of supplying that amount. Then decide which type of 12V battery you want depending on power requirements and length of time you want to use it. A large deep cycle battery (Marine/RV) battery is what I would suggest. I have 2 6V golf cart batteries wired in series, and a solar panel for charging during the day. Though I have alot more to power than just a heater.

[Zopilote]

Thanks, Wharfrat, that's good advice. I have a couple of
marine batteries I could use. Any idea how long the charge
would last if all the electricals to my tank are on them?
Pumps, lights, skimmers, heaters, etc?

Seems a lot less than buying and installing a generator.

[wharfrat48]

That depends on the battery capacity and the power requirements of what you are using. I doubt you could power very many types of light (maybe a small PC or 2). Pumps are usually energy hogs as well. If you wanted to run your whole system I would recommend a generator. I am mainly concerned with very rare extended outages (hurricanes and ice storms come to mind). I lost my first FOWLR to Fran in the 90's. In these cases I would power my return pump and heater/fans for 1-2hrs and off for 1-2 hrs to conserve battery. I imagine most tanks could last for at least week without lights and a few days without skimming. So although I never had to, I'm guessing my setup could last at least a week. And if your battery charge ever gets really low you can charge it with your cars alternator.

[Zopilote]

Thanks again...I appreciate your time.