[AquaticLife] Power Outages and effect on good bacteria
You should be OK as far as the nitrifying bacteria go. You might have had a small die off but they are capable of doubling their colony size every 24-48 hours (depending on water parameters) but more than likely, you won’t even see a mini-cycle. Something you can do… just for your filter systems… is get UPS’, like those used on computers, and plug your filter systems into them.
Start looking on freecycle.org, craigslist.org, etc., for free used ones. I just picked up two BIG ONES for free that each needed the batteries replaced (this needs to be done every couple of years so some people just trash them and buy new UPS’. These are APC 1000 model’s… much larger than the ones I had. I was able to replace the batteries for only $40.00 plus shipping on eBay… which is a fraction of what these units sell for new. I even paid more than that for my new APC 650’s that I was using. I also use UPS’ on my entertainment center and obviously on my computer. It beats the heck out of having the fix the time and programming on my dvr, vcr’s, tv and other electronics on the entertainment center every time there’s a power outage or surge… and it protects the electronics as well.
Read my blog, “Power Outage! - How me and my fish survived Hurricane Katrina” for more info on how a UPS can be used during a long term power outage to keep your nitrifying bacteria alive… including having a power inverter that can be run off of your car cigarette lighter and use that to recharge the UPS on a daily basis and to power the filters whenever the car is running to recharge the UPS…. but you’ll need a long extension cord if you decide to leave your car down the hill. 
Of course, if you do get a generator, I’m sure your neighbors will be more than happy to forego any rules about having it running outside as long as you let them enjoy some of your heat. I had extension cords running to two other homes running off of my generator during Gustav this past August. The problem would be where to keep it when you’re not in need… maybe hide it under your barbecue pit? Are you allowed a barbecue pit? I know many homeowner associations are run by Hitler/Hussein wannabe’s and you are supposed to walk lock-step behind all their rules… or you can start a coup, like I did… and throw the bums out! LOL
Lenny Vasbinder Fish Blog - http://GoldLenny.blogspot.com (Links to any articles referenced in above reply are listed on the right side, alphabetically under Labels and also under Archives by Year, Month)
Category: Philippines Internet Koi Society
