"How to choose a portable solar power station" is one of the most common questions when looking at backup and mobile power options. Up until the last couple of years, there weren't many options. But now, there are an incredible number of options, and it can make it challenging to understand what brand and unit to choose.
This guide for choosing a portable power station will make it easy to understand what specs to look for when choosing a portable solar generator. The first thing to consider is what needs to be powered from the power station. Then from there, the inverter output rating, battery capacity, solar rechargeability, future expandability, and system longevity are all important factors.
What to Run?
This is the first point to be looked at when reviewing portable power stations. There will be a significant difference in what system to go with depending on what it needs to power. If the portable solar power station needs to run a refrigerator, WiFi, and a , that is relatively easy. But if it needs to run 3 fridges, 2 freezers, WiFi, a tv, chargers for multiple devices, a sump pump, a well pump, a furnace blower, fans, lights, and medical equipment, then a much more extensive system is required.
Most people need to run a fridge, freezer, a few lights, a fan, and mobile device chargers. A system of that size would need at least a 1,000w inverter, a 3,600wh battery, and about 800w of solar input to work correctly. This system can work as a standby power source whenever the power goes out.
For people who need a more extensive system such as running 2 fridges, 2 freezers, WiFi, tv, well pump, sump pump, and the other things mentioned earlier, the system will be much more significant. It would require 240v power for the well pump. It would need a large inverter output for all the appliances and devices running. And a substantial solar input to recharge that whole system in a single day while still running that equipment.
Inverter Output
An inverter is a large microchip that converts battery voltage to household voltage. Battery voltage is not suitable for running household devices. Typical battery voltages in portable solar power stations are 12v, 24v, and 48v. The voltage that comes out of a standard house outlet is 120v. If a kitchen appliance, such as a microwave, does not have the correct voltage going into it, it will either not work or get damaged.
Some appliances or devices use 240v power, such as well pumps, air conditioners, electric water heaters, electric stoves/ovens, electric clothes dryers, and electric furnaces. If any of those appliances need to be powered, then the inverter must be capable of handling that much voltage. Typically, with portable solar power stations, it'll be necessary to have two inverters to make 240v power since it is called "split phase power." Essentially, each inverter makes one "phase" of power, and having two of them together makes it possible to split or oppose them to work appropriately with 240v appliances.
But in the case of portable power stations, it's unnecessary to worry about that because those features are already built into the system, making it easier for the end user.
Most power stations will make 120v power which means you can connect anything to it that would connect to a typical house outlet, and it should work without any difficulty. The only thing to consider is how powerful the inverter should be. All that's necessary is to find out how many watts the devices use that will be used on the system.
A refrigerator typically uses about 400w when running. An LED light bulb will typically use 14w when running. A sump pump to keep water out of a basement or yard varies greatly depending on how many watts it operates and how much horsepower it's rated. But a typical pump is around 800w when in use. A toaster, coffee maker, or microwave often uses about 1,300w when running.
Typically, the power rating is listed on a small sticker on every appliance or device, but a quick Google search will also help find how many watts different devices use.
Simply add the total wattage of what would be running at one time, showing how many watts the inverter should be rated to. If a fridge, coffee maker, and microwave run simultaneously, the inverter must be rated at least 3,000w. 400w for the fridge, 1,300w for the coffee maker, and 1,300w for the microwave.
But that is only one part of the equation. The next question is, how long can all essential equipment run before the energy runs out?
Battery Capacity
A large enough inverter to run all the essential devices necessary is important, but the battery will determine how long those devices can run. The inverter could be considered a car engine, and the battery can be viewed as a fuel tank. The larger the fuel tank, the longer it will drive.
It is perplexing to figure out how big a battery is necessary for a portable solar power station. There are very confusing terms like volts, amps, watts, amp-hours, ohms, watt-hours, etc. That is why companies like Yoshino work to help customers figure out what size battery they need to meet their goals. But not only that, they make power stations that can add extra batteries to match whatever the battery capacity needs are.
To determine the necessary battery capacity, it's best to work in terms of "watt-hours." Watt-hours refer to the total battery capacity, like a fuel tank is measured in gallons for size. To know how much battery is necessary, determine the average amount of watts used by the devices running from the power station and how many hours they will run constantly.
For example, a refrigerator uses about 400w when running but will only run for about 15 minutes every hour. Since 15 minutes is 25% of one hour, we will take 25% of the 400w the fridge uses when running, and we get the outcome of watt-hours. 400w ÷ 25% = 100wh. This means the fridge will consume about 100wh of battery capacity for every hour the fridge runs. If there are two fridges, they will use about 200wh per hour. If there is one fridge to run, and I want to run it for 24 hours non-stop, then a 2,400wh battery is necessary to make that happen.
But the power can often be out for more than 24 hours, and the essential appliances must keep running. That is why portable power stations' solar input and rechargeability are crucial.
Recharging
Most power stations will recharge in one of two ways. One, from a wall charging cable, or two, solar panels. For long-term power outages, it's best to have solar panels adequate to the system's power needs. Just like watts used for one hour will show the total watt-hours consumed off of a battery, watts produced from solar panels for one hour will show the restored energy back to a battery.
A 100w solar panel in the sun for 5 hours will make 500wh of power that goes back into the battery. There is an average of 5 solar peak hours per day in the USA. Depending on geographic location, it varies between 4 to 6 solar peak hours, but 5 solar peak hours is an excellent base to work with.
If a fridge uses 100wh per hour from the battery and the battery runs from evening through the morning, it will use about 1,600wh of energy from a battery. To run the fridge through the next night, it's necessary to recharge those 1,600wh back. Solar panels are the next best option if there is no grid power, such as during a blackout or emergency. Since there are 5 solar peak hours in a day, the 1,600wh of energy has to be recharged in those 5 solar peak hours.
In addition to recharging the battery, the fridge must continue running during the day, using 100wh/hr. In order to do this math, take 1,600wh and divide that by the total solar peak hours, which is 5 hours. 1,600wh ÷ 5hrs = 320w from solar panels to recharge the battery. But since the fridge still needs to use 100wh per hour, adding another 100w to the solar input is necessary to cover the refrigerator still running while recharging the battery and bringing the whole solar panel array to 420w as the minimum recommended solar array size.
Conclusion
Once all this basic math is put together, choosing a portable solar power station is easy. Knowing how much power needs to run at any given moment will determine the inverter size. Knowing how many watts are used per hour, and how many hours the battery needs to last will determine the battery capacity. The battery capacity and hourly power usage can appropriately determine the solar input.
Yoshino is dedicated to helping people by providing high-quality, long-lasting, and easy-to-use portable solar power stations. This takes all the guesswork out of assembling a system and making it work for mobile power.
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Portable solar panels are a great investment for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors. They are an eco-friendly and efficient way to charge your devices without relying on a power outlet from home.
However, before purchasing, you should consider a few things, such as how much power you need, what size panel you need, and what company has the best return policy.
By asking yourself the following questions before buying a portable solar panel, you can be sure that you are making the best decision for your needs.
The power output of a solar panel is an important consideration when determining which solar panel to buy. The power output is measured in watts, indicating how much electricity the solar panel can produce. Solar panels with a higher wattage will produce more electricity, making them a better choice for larger homes or businesses.
However, solar panels with lower wattage are more affordable and can still provide enough power for smaller homes or RVs. To find out the power output of a particular solar panel, consult the manufacturer's specifications. Once you know the power output you need, you can narrow your choices and choose the best portable solar panel.
When shopping for portable solar panels, one of the most important questions to ask is about the portable solar panel efficiency rating. The efficiency rating tells you how much of the sun's energy the panel can convert into usable electricity. The higher the rating, the more efficient the panel. However, when choosing a panel, efficiency isn't the only factor to consider. You also need to consider how much power you need and where you'll use the panel.
For example, if you need a lot of power for camping or RVs, you'll want to choose a high-wattage panel with a high-efficiency rating. But if you're just looking for a small panel to use around the house, you can get away with a lower wattage and lower efficiency.
Ultimately, the best panel for you will depend on your specific needs. But by asking about efficiency, you can narrow down your options and ensure you're getting the best possible value for your money.
Portable solar panels are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your energy bill. However, before you purchase portable solar panels, it is important to ask how long they are expected to last. Some solar panels have a lifespan of only a few years, while others can last up to 20 years or more. The type of panel you purchase will ultimately dictate how long it will last.
Monocrystalline silicon panels are the most expensive but also the longest lasting, with an average lifespan of 20-25 years. Polycrystalline silicon panels are less expensive but have a shorter lifespan of 10-15 years. Thin-film solar panels are the least expensive option but also have the shortest lifespan of only 5-10 years. Ultimately, the decision of which type of panel to purchase depends on your budget and your needs.
When you're looking at different portable solar panels, it's important to ask what the bend angle is. This is because the bend angle will determine how much sunlight the panel can capture. If you're using the panels in an area with little sunlight, you'll want to ensure that the bend angle is large enough to capture as much sunlight as possible.
On the other hand, if you're using the panels in an area with a lot of suns, you can get away with a smaller bend angle. The bottom line is that the bend angle is an important factor to consider when you're choosing portable solar panels.
Before you buy portable solar panels, you also need to consider their dimensions and weight. This is important to know because you need to ensure the panels will fit in the space you have available and that you can easily carry them with you if necessary. Most portable solar panels are lightweight, but some can be bulky. So, it's important to consider both the size and weight of the panels when making your purchase.
Additionally, you'll want to consider how many devices you'll be powering with the solar panels. A smaller panel should suffice if you only need to charge a or small laptop. But if you're looking to power larger items like a fridge or tv, then you'll need a bigger panel. Ultimately, the size and weight of the solar panel will be dictated by your specific needs. So, make sure to ask this question before making your purchase.
If you're considering purchasing portable solar panels, be sure to ask the retailer about the portable solar panel warranty. Many solar panel manufacturers offer warranties of 10 or 20 years, but some only offer 5-year warranties. The warranty length is important because it will give you an idea of how long the panels are expected to last. Generally, the longer the warranty, the more confidence the manufacturer has in their product.
However, it's also important to read the warranty's fine print to understand what is and is not covered. Some warranties only cover defects in materials, while others may also cover damage caused by natural disasters. By understanding the terms of the warranty, you can be sure that you're getting a quality product that will provide years of trouble-free service.
If you're looking for a portable solar panel to take on your next camping trip, make sure to ask if it's waterproof before making your purchase. While most solar panels are designed to withstand occasional exposure to water, they're not all created equal. Some panels are only waterproof in light rain, while others can withstand being submerged in water.
Knowing how your panel will perform in wet conditions is essential for ensuring that you can rely on it when you need it most. Waterproof panels are also a good choice if you live in an area that experiences high humidity or frequent precipitation. By choosing a panel built to withstand the elements, you can be sure it will be there when you need it.
When you're shopping for portable solar panels, it's important to ask questions about the construction materials. Some panels are made with lower-quality materials that aren't as durable or efficient. Others use top-of-the-line materials that are built to last. By asking questions, you can ensure you're getting a panel made with high-quality materials that will perform well for years to come.
Some things to ask about include the type of solar cells used, the frame material, and the glass. Solar cells come in different types, and some are more efficient than others. The frame material affects the durability and weight of the panel. And the type of glass used can affect the panel's efficiency. By asking these questions, you can ensure you're getting a portable solar panel made with high-quality materials that will perform well for years to come.
With the advent of technology, solar panels have become increasingly portable, making them a great option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint while still being able to take their solar power with them when they travel. However, before purchasing portable solar panels, it is important to ask about the included portability features.
Some portable solar panels come with fold-up legs that make them easy to transport, while others come with carrying cases. Some portable solar panels also come with built-in inverters, making them even more convenient for those who want to use them on the go. By asking about the portability features that are included with a particular model of portable solar panel, you can be sure that you are getting the most bang for your buck.
The main advantage of portable solar panels is that they allow you to generate your own electricity, even when you're not near a power source. However, it's important to consider a panel's battery storage capabilities before making a purchase. Some panels come with built-in batteries, while others require purchasing a separate battery pack. The size of the battery will determine how long the panel can run without sunlight, so it's important to choose a panel that can store enough power to meet your needs.
For example, if you plan on using the panel to recharge your while camping, you'll need a panel with a large battery that can store enough power to keep your charged for several days. On the other hand, if you only need the panel for short-term use, such as during a power outage, you can choose a panel with a smaller battery. In any case, it's important to consider battery storage when choosing a portable solar panel.
Before purchasing portable solar panels, it is important to determine which devices they are compatible with. There are a variety of portable solar panels on the market, and each one is designed to work with specific types of devices. Some panels are compatible with laptops, while others are designed for cell phones or handheld electronic devices.
Still, others are meant to be used with larger pieces of equipment, such as RVs or boats. By knowing which devices you need to power, you can narrow down your options and find the right panel for your needs.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that the panel you select is compatible with the types of batteries that you intend to use. Otherwise, you may find yourself stuck with a panel that cannot provide power when you need it most. By asking about compatibility before making your purchase, you can ensure that you select the best portable solar panel for your needs.
Another important consideration when shopping for portable solar panels is whether they come with a built-in battery. This is especially important if you plan on using the panels in an area where there is no electricity. Many people assume that all portable solar panels come with batteries, but this is not always the case. Some models require that you purchase a separate battery, which can add to the cost of the panel.
In addition, it is important to ensure that the battery is compatible with the panel. Otherwise, you may not be able to use the panel in an emergency situation. By asking if the solar panel comes with a built-in battery, you can be sure that you are getting a product that will meet your needs.
Portable solar panels can help reduce your reliance on the grid, but there are some things you need to consider before making your purchase. At Bluetti, we want to make it easy for you to find the perfect solar solution, so we offer a wide selection of products at competitive prices. Shop our store today and get started on reducing your energy costs!
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