Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations Powerhouse

Chris Steelman's recent post of his new generator powerhouse (bottom of page) has boosted another project on my "I want one" list.
Our project has co-op electricity in the area, but it is about $8000 away. This is $ we no-gots. In the interim, I want to purchase a smaller gas generator, about 5000 KW, and build a small shed on a pad to house it. I also have a 100# propane tank that I want to keep inside the same powerhouse.
We are just now completing construction of a 10' x 12' shed with 8' tall walls that will be insulated and drywalled. It will be used for storage of basic tools and hiding from the elements. I plan on a small propane wall heater and a portable window AC unit. A powerhouse located about 75 feet away with a buried elec feed and a copper line for LPG would complete the package. It would also provide a reasonably comfortable place to set up camp for an over-nighter.
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Everything I read says "no" to the thought of putting a gas-powered generator in a shed. I realize that inbound O2 and vented exhaust would be required. What else am I missing? Assuming that I provide excellent ventilation for temp control within the structure, am I setting up an explosion by installing a 100# propane tank within the same structure?
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Lastly, I have considered using an LPG powered generator, but it would be cost-prohibitive and would require handling the propane tank more than I care to. This would not be a power package that will see alot of everyday use.
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Open for ideas on this one.

Brett, I have a problem with the idea of storing a propane tank inside of anything that includes a running motor.

one small leak and its another small step for mankind for anyone standin to close

"There was supposed to be an Earth-shattering 'Ka-Boom'!"

Nix the potential indoor bomb, Marvin. Side question: What's a propane tank gonna benefit from that you can't gain from putting a simple roof over it?

What do we know about small generators? It will be hot and put out a lot of fumes. There are electrical connections to make that would be very good to keep dry. The above connections and other aspects of running the generator, like keeping it nice and level for oil retention purposes, would benefit from being well affixed to a nice, level surface.

Personally, Brettski, I would want enough building to keep the weather off the generator and the e-connections (anything from an extension cord plugged in to an elaborate permanent switch/circuit breaker set-up), with extremely good ventilation and a lot of clear space between the genrator and the walls. Bolt that sucker to a nice, dry, level floor. Don't forget the ground rod.

...yeah, the LPG tank thing is kinda Stooges-esque, ain't it. So what would one do with this tank? It's 48" tall and 15" dia. cylinder. Pour a separate little pad with a small roof on corner poles...?

I'd leave it laying outside on the ground. Rural propane tanks ain't gonna mind getting rained on. My 250 gallon one is located about 20 ft. from my white trash trailer house. No problem.

I stayed in a remote cabin in Canada a couple of years ago that sounds just like the setup you described but the propane was 75' away on the other side of the cabin. A little gas got spilled just about every fillup and an enclosed wooden structure is no place for spilled gas. That motor will backfire eventually and the results could be disasterous with a propane tank nearby. I'd say stash the propane tank outside between some bushes and get the remote start option on the generator. If you must house the propane under the same roof, I'd completely seperate it with a wall with 5/8" fire rated drywall on both sides and maintain good ventilation on both sides.

Brettski,

Ever think about going solar? 1 or 2 100w solar panels would keep 8 massive golf cart batteries topped off during the week, and could supply all the clean, quiet juice you need for a short weekender. Heat and cooking could be propane. Just a small Wal-Mart propane tank could supply heat and cooking for a weekend. They're safer than you might think.

Oh man, Bobad...have I ever.
I have been thinkin' about this power issue ever since we purchased the property 3 years ago. I am very receptive to solar, but I keep running into the same basic issues. It has to be relatively cheap (ie; under a grand) and it has to be able to run a small AC unit. Oh yeah, and when we finally do bring in the co-op juice, it has to have some re-sale value or further use elsewhere.
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I have done alot of on again-off again studying on solar power. I could live with battery power, no problem (we lived our weekends and vacations on boats for a number of years). I just don't see being able to properly equip our need with the correct inverters, batteries and panels for under $1000 and I'm still gonna need a generator. I hope to have power to the pond within 3 years max. I have difficulty seeing the ROI on solar for the short term.
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But, now that you mention it, I hope that others kick in some solarizing thoughts and practical experiences with household level applications.
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thx!

Here ar some more pictures. It is sitting on a 4ft.x 4ft. base. We then placed it on top of concrete blocks to keep it off of the ground. There are doors on all sides with screens to provide ventilation. There is also a circuit breaker and a start switch on the inside.

On the right edge are 2 wall plugs and an RV outlet.


Fan on the bottom. Muffler outlet on top.

I REALLY like piping the exhaust directly outside the enclosure.