How-To Choose a Solar Power Generator

How do you choose a Solar Powered Generator? Solar “Generators” are not actually “generators”; they are self-contained battery packs better known as “Solar Power Stations”. This article gives you the resources to help pick a portable solar powered back-up power supply for your home during a power-outage, or for an off-grid rv/camper, or to use during camping or other SHTF scenario.

Solar Power Generators

Main Comparisons:

HOW MUCH IS IT?
1. Cost per Watt = Best Value
HOW BIG DO YOU NEED?
1. Total Size/Capacity is listed in Watts (W) or Watt Hours (Wh).
2. Size determines how long it will run and power your appliance.
3. For reference, a refrigerator takes about 100W per hour of runtime.
WHAT KIND OF BATTERY DOES IT HAVE?
1. LiFePo4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) is best, but more expensive.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECHARGE?
1. The Recharge Rate can be important if you have rolling blackouts and need it to recharge faster.
HOW MANY SOLAR PANELS CAN PLUG INTO IT?
1. Maximum Solar Input >= Max Watts x 5
  1. Because normal good sun charge time is 3-5 peak hours in the USA, you would be able to charge the station fully with 1 days’ worth of sun exposure.
WHAT KIND OF PLUG-INS DOES IT HAVE?
1. Do you want to be able to plugin your RV Camper with a 30amp outlet?
2. How many 110/120 A/C appliances do you want to power at once?
3. Do you just want to power your phones with USB jacks? 12V plugs?
OTHER THINGS THAT MIGHT BE IMPORTANT TO YOU
1. Brand Reliability
2. Warranty