Power backup for multiple tanks

[hwofnt]

What is the common way to have a power backup for multiple tanks, especially if they have and equipment like fluidized sand bed, denitrator and bio-wheels, or at least heater in the sump - which will be out of use in case of power failure for 2-3 days or more. In not tropical climates this could be a problem, because house heating also will go off (natural gas, but with heated air distribution by fan).

How is it usually done for people that do not have the outdoor structure to store and run power generator (it can't be run inside the house, according to manufacturer, is too big to store in the house, contains flammable liquids, smells, and there is no garage, heated or not - tool shed only)?

$150 battery powered computer back up lasts for less that one day, no matter what is rated for. For one tank, with a couple of low power consumption powerheads. Then only one thing left: battery operated air pumps, that create a mess in 10-20g tanks

Any tips or experiences?

[Carl]

I ran my store with a back up RV Deep Cycle batteries connected to Modified Sine Wave inverters.

Two series 27 RV batteries have a storage capacity of 180 minutes at 25 amps draw DC (which is a alot of juice; for instance a larger fan will draw about 6 Amps, a TV about 3 amps).
I connected these batteries in parallel (not series otherwise you would double the voltage from 12 to 24 V).

With two of these batteries multiple appliances can be run (we ran our computer, refrigerator, and a central air pump).

Options include the use of (40 deep cycle 6 Volt golf cart batteries connected in a combination parallel/series; this method is employed by large RVs and can even power large 2200 watt air conditioners with the correct inverter.

See:
*Inverters
*Deep cycle Batteries

Carl

[hwofnt]

Very interesting, thank you! Will read more about that.