Even more preparation for the hurricane Irene - Power station n°1

Since I could lose power at any moment starting now, I have something to keep some electricity for about 2 hours, depending of how I use the 350VA available. Afterwards I'll have to use the car battery + 1000W inverter setup, and ultimately a third setup I'll explain below.

The main component is the UPS, found ready to use at the recycle centre. While I first wasn't so sure if it was worth picking up, I can tell you it definitely was! I can now have this minimalist setup, with first a 0.7W nightlight. For once an LED night light has a big advantage as it draws very little power, it'll last hours on the UPS. The incandescent nightlight provides the normal light in my bedroom.

Second important item is the radio/TV combo. As a TV it draws about 12W and I won't get more than an hour. The radio part is much more energy-saving and I can expect it to work overnight with intermittent use.

Final item is a 5W CFL, the lowest energy-consuming lamp for a decent 300lm output. If I ever need extra light this is the lamp I'll use.

In the case the UPS' battery runs out, I have tons of flashlight, a weatheradio from my (now defunct) grandma, and a car battery + 1000W inverter setup. With all that I should be able to keep some light until 5h30am, around sunrise time lately.