Are you worried about the next power outage?
Solar generators are a great way to have power when the grid goes down. They’re silent, don’t need fossil fuels, and recharge quickly.
You can use a solar generator for all sorts of things – from powering your home during a blackout to running an off-grid site like a cabin or RV. No matter what your needs are, there is a solar generator perfect for you.
In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about solar generators – including how they work!
What Makes up a Solar Generator?
In essence, this electronic box contains everything you need to power your devices.
But what exactly is inside?
- Batteries
- Charge controller
- An inverter
Batteries
Solar generators contain either lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries – the same type of battery that powers your car. These provide energy storage for when the sun isn’t shining.
Even though lead acid batteries are the most popular, they are slowly being phased out in favor of lithium-ion batteries.
This is due to the fact that lithium-ion batteries are lighter, smaller and have a greater storage capacity.
Charge controller
Solar generators also have a charge controller, which regulates the flow of electricity from the solar panels to the batteries.
This ensures that the batteries don’t get overloaded and damaged.
The controller is very similar to the ones you have at home that control the flow for your roof solar panels.
An inverter
The inverter changes the DC power stored in the batteries into AC power that may be used to operate your equipment.
They are able to do this by cleverly switching the DC current on and off at a very high speed – around 20,000 times per second!
Related: Solar Panel Vs Generators (WHICH ONE WINS?)
How Does A Solar Generator Work?
A solar generator works by converting sunlight into electricity. This electricity is then stored in batteries.
When you need power, the generator uses an inverter to change the DC power from the batteries into AC power that can run your devices.
Solar generators are a great way to have power when the grid goes down. They’re silent, don’t need fossil fuels, and recharge quickly.
Two Types of Solar Generator
- Solar backup generators.
- Portable solar power generators.
Solar backup generators
If you live in an area where there are often power outages, a solar backup generator is an excellent alternative for you.
These generators are meant to operate as your home’s main source of electricity in the case of a power outage.
Solar backup generators are usually much larger than portable solar generators and are not meant to be moved around. They’re also more expensive, as they need to be able to power your entire home.
A high wattage solar generator is a great option if you need to power multiple devices or appliances at the same time.
Designed more to power smaller devices like phones and laptops, these generators are perfect for those who need power when they need it the most.
Portable solar power generators
If you need a generator that you can take with you, then a portable solar generator is the way to go. These generators are small and can be easily transported. They’re perfect for camping, tailgating, or running your RV.
Portable solar generators are less expensive than solar backup generators, as they don’t need to be as powerful. However, they can only power smaller devices and will need to be recharged more often.
The best portable solar generator for you will depend on your needs. If you need a lot of power, then a high wattage portable generator is a good option.
They are generally low in wattage and can power smaller devices like lights, phones and laptops.
Related: RV Solar Panels Vs Generators | What’s Better When Camping?
How Long Does A Solar Generator Last?
Solar generators last between 25 and 30 years. This means that they will continue to generate electricity long after they have been paid for.
Solar generators with the same capacity will have a considerably longer life expectancy than those on a different type of battery. The lifespan of lead-acid batteries is 3-5 years, whereas lithium-ion batteries may last up to 10 years.
The battery capacity, charge, or load is the total amount of energy the battery can hold. The longer a battery lasts when powering appliances, the higher its capacity. A fully charged cell may endure anything from 1 to 5 days depending on how it is used.
FAQs
Are solar powered generators any good?
Yes, solar powered generators are a great way to have power when the grid goes down. They’re silent, don’t need fossil fuels, and recharge quickly.
Do solar generators work in the winter?
Solar generators will still work in the winter, but they won’t be as effective as they are in the summer. This is because there is less sunlight during the winter months.
How long does the Jackery generator last?
Jackery’s portable power stations are powered by lithium-ion batteries and have a rated lifespan of 500 cycles or 2 – 3 years. After that, you’ll have approximately 80% of your original battery capacity left, with it gradually decreasing over time.
Is a portable power station the same as a portable solar generator?
Yes, they are the same thing. A portable power station is a self-contained unit that includes a solar panel, inverter, and battery. This allows you to store energy from the sun and use it when you need it.
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