Hi Jim
On (27 Jan 98) Jim Dunmyer wrote to Alec Cameron...
 JD>  He recommends using an approved transfer switch. If he uses one like
 JD> Northern sells, he'll switch only the necessary loads, alleviating the
 JD> problem you describe of overloading the generator.
Correct practice. But so many technically DIY foll cut corners, Gung Ho! to
hell with authority. On this echo, there is the risk of giving advice that
could lead to injury. Could even be actionable!
 JD> I probably sound like a broken record, but if you have a standby
 JD> generator, it's imperative that you test it on a regular basis.
Agreed. But after I tested my copper bodied water type [soda- acid]
extinguisher, the maintenance service refused to refill it due to the date of
mfr being too long ago. Sold it to an antique shop. No the timber house 
idn't
burn down later, we sold and moved to a brick one.
 JD> A few weeks ago on a rainy day, I decided that it was time to P.M. the
 JD> generator and found it wouldn't start.
Omigosh. Excess accummulated carbon from previous test runs? 
Get a diesel!!   Cheers.......ALEC
PS I just left the room and tested the smoke detectors.
... ....Dead men tell no solicitors!
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