Generators are great tools for short to mid term power outages. Many preppers have them as well as some fuel in storage to run them. However, for some, the expense of a generator or perhaps the lack of space to put one can be an issue. There must be a better way! Well there is, or at least another way…
Generators have two basic components; an engine and an alternator. They use mechanical energy to create electrical energy. In reality it’s not that simple, but those are the basics.
What many preppers overlook is the fat that they have a generator on hand, sitting in their driveway. That’s right, you already own a generator…your vehicle. These days many vehicles already have a 110VAC outlet built in, especially in SUVs. These outlets however are not designed to do much more than charge an electronic device. There is a way to get some useable juice from your vehicle though…simply get an inverter.
Using what you already have on hand just makes common sense. Using the engine and charging system of your vehicle can save you money and take care of space issues.
The process is simple enough. Connect the battery clamps on the inverter to the battery of your car (red to red, black to black) and idle the vehicle. Extension cords running to the house will give you enough power to run almost anything (except electric heating units) if you have a properly sized inverter.
For more information on using your car to power your home listen to Steven Harris on The Survival Podcast here!