Build Your Own Outage Power Plan with Benjamin Sahlstrom

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Identfiy critical devices and build systems that handle short to long-term outages.
You'll also learn best practices for maintenance and how to get the most out of your backup gear.

Estimated Time:

35 Min

Difficulty:

Passing Criteria:

80% or higher quiz score.

A Message From Your Instructor

I’ve had the opportunity to help people solve problems through my career in the trades as well as my technical content work on YouTube. I’m excited to be able to bring you the things I’ve learned about backup power systems to help you develop the best possible backup system so that you can be ready for the next electrical outage!

— Benjamin Sahlstrom

You'll Learn About

Essential Appliances

Identify the necessary devices for an outage.

Estimate Power Needs

Calculate sizing, voltage, and output for circuits.

Create a Power Plan

Build a system to power for 3 hours, 3 days, or 3 weeks.

Take Care of Your Backup

Learn best practices to maintain and use daily.

What You've Learned

Here are the key takeaways of the course in a quick, practical, and ready-to-use outline.

Understand your power needs & system types

Start by calculating the wattage for essential items needed during a power outage.

Once you know your power needs, select the backup system that best fits your usage.

240V systems are often a good choice as many appliances require this voltage.

120V systems are more suitable for smaller setups or short-duration outages.

Build a resilient backup strategy

A strong backup plan includes battery storage and multiple power generation sources.

Use solar panels when sunlight is available.

Use a dual-fuel generator during poor weather or low-sunlight periods.

Develop a strategy to stagger the use of large electrical loads—this helps reduce the total backup capacity needed.

Plan how to connect your backup system

Have a clear plan for how to connect your system to your home during outages.

If using extension cords, use at least 12 AWG cables for standard 120V 20A loads.

Consider installing an interlocked breaker and power inlet box for a safer and more seamless connection.

If outages are frequent, consider a system with automatic switchover capability when the grid fails.

Maintain and optimize your backup systems

Learn how to properly maintain all components of your backup system.

Recharge LFP batteries to 100% and run your generator briefly every 3 months.

Avoid ethanol fuel when possible, which can degrade generator performance.

A dual-fuel generator offers flexibility and fuel alternatives.

Install solar panels and charge during off-peak hours to reduce electricity costs.

By doing all this, you'll have a system that helps keep your family safe during outages and emergencies.

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