I don't want to add to carbon emissions and air pollution, and I don't have unlimited funds either
You need to decide what you will power for example, your refrigerator and freezer would be a good choice. That means you will need about 20 amps use this formula to help determining the needed watt output Amps Watts/Volts 20 amps 2300 watts / 115v Thus you will need a minimum of 2300 watt generator gasoline to provide you with enough power to operate your refrigerator or freezer. Also small generators are available from many sources. Check on line but I suggest that you purchase from a brick and mortar store like sears, or home depot.
You can also find generators to power a home that burn propane, or natural gas. Either of these would be more efficient than a diesel model. Another option use wind or solar power to keep a bank of batteries constantly charging. The first thing you need to decide tho. is just how much power do you need, when the electric is 'off'. Most folks can get by fine with just a few circuits the refrigerator, freezer, a well pump (when applicable) the furnace, and a few lights. The larger a backup power supply you have on hand, the more things you can run for an extended period of 'blackout'. Sounds like you may want to do some research into what types of energy systems are available in your area, what you need, and how much you want to spend. (A lot of small generators will work for a couple of appliances - theyre not automatic tho, hehehe, and for an extended outage, it may be necessary to 'rotate' the appliance being plugged into the generator) Have Fun
