Solar Battery vs. Whole Home Generator—Which is Right for Me?
There is no shortage of reasons why Arizona homeowners are looking to gain greater energy independence. From preventing power outages, to reducing reliance on the grid, avoiding peak demand charging. to just simply having control of your own energy whether fully off-grid or grid-tied with behind-the-meter power generation.
For backup power in times of a power outage, many homeowners right here in the greater Phoenix area need access to life-saving electronic medical equipment or consistent refrigeration for medications. Some homeowners prefer to keep a backup power option to run necessary safety equipment or home essentials, like a well pump or security system, and some homeowners don’t want to say goodbye to all the food in their freezer every time the power goes out. Whatever your reason for needing an independent backup solution for your home electricity. you likely find yourself at the crossroads of choosing between a whole-home generator vs a solar battery backup system. Each type of system has its pros and cons—here is what the solar installation experts at SouthFace Solar want you to know about choosing between battery-assisted solar power or a generator.
Powered Backup Generators
If you’ve ever heard a low hum coming from a neighbor’s house when the power goes out, you were likely hearing the hum of a backup generator. These are combustion-based generators that provide electricity by burning a fossil fuel like natural gas or propane. Backup generators can be designed to turn on automatically when an outage is detected, or manually turned on when needed. The cost of backup generator installation depends on how large your home is and what kind of appliances you would like to keep operational during an outage.
The Benefits of a Whole-Home Backup Generator:
- On-demand backup power
- Lower installation costs compared to other backup options
- Can utilize an existing gas line
- Can be added to a home with or without solar
While backup generators are a popular choice for backup power, there are some drawbacks to using this type of system. They can be particularly noisy (if you related to hearing the low hum, you understand!), they require regular maintenance and will incur gas costs, even if you don’t need to use them, and they burn fossil fuels that create harmful carbon emissions.
Solar Battery Backup
Solar battery backup. also known as solar battery storage, is a battery that can store and disperse the renewable electricity generated by solar panels. You may have heard about solar battery products like the Tesla solar battery, Tesla Powerwall. A solar battery system is best combined with a new or existing system of solar PV panels and an inverter, and can be designed to operate in conjunction with the electrical grid or independent of the grid. These are called on-grid and off-grid systems, respectively. Batteries can also be used without solar but will need to be charged by an energy source like from the electricity grid.
Home solar battery storage ensures that your home uses as much of the renewable electricity coming from your solar panels as possible, and can be used during times of low solar output (like at night), during an outage, or to avoid times where electricity is more expensive (like time-of-use/peak demand charing programs).
The Benefits of Solar Battery Backup
- Automatically detects power outages
- Used to balance peak demand charges
- Qualifies for solar tax credit incentives
- Further decreases your carbon footprint when paired with solar
- Quiet operation
- Low maintenance
What’s the drawback? If you pair solar with a solar battery, you’ll have power as long as the sun is shining but what happens if you need that backup power during a cloudy week? Depending on your backup power requirements, a generator may be the better option. Also, solar battery will always vary, depending on the size of your system and what kind of solar panel battery storage system best meets the needs of you and your home. While solar battery storage system costs are higher than a backup generator, battery storage can also qualify for valuable solar incentives like tax credit savings and be used for offsetting peak demand rates.
Choosing What’s Right for You
So, which option is going to be best for your home? If you have no plans to install solar in the future and are only looking to keep your essential appliances up and running during an emergency situation, a backup generator may be the most appropriate option.
If you are looking to keep the lights on during an outage, reduce the peak electricity charges from time-of-use rates, or already have an existing solar PV system, a solar battery backup system will likely be the best option for your home.
Best Solar Generators: Buyers Guide (2023 Updated Review Guide)
This review guide has helped thousands of homeowners save time and money when searching for a reliable, clean source of backup energy that they can use to remain worry free during power outages.
Each product and or company featured here has been independently selected by the writer. You can learn more about our review methodology here. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Written by Josh Hurst
Writer and editor with more than a decade’s experience in journalism. Josh worked for Christianity Today for seven years, and has contributed to special assignments for Apple Music and iTunes. Josh lives in Knoxville, Tennessee with his wife, Kati, and two sons, Henry and Dylan.While he mainly focuses on musical journalism he is excited to save the earth on article at a time through sustainability best practices articles as well. Learn About This Person
Reviewed by Irma Omerhodzic
Irma joined the EcoWatch team in August 2015. She holds a Master’s degree and Bachelor’s degree from the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. She is a member of Kappa Tau Alpha – a national honor society of journalism. Learn About This Person
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What Are The Best Solar Powered Generators In 2023?
Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. You can learn more about our review methodology here. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
How Did We Review Each Solar Generator?
There are a number of factors we considered when choosing which solar power generators to recommend, including:
Battery Capacity
Battery storage capacity is an important ranking factor. A greater battery capacity means the generator can store more energy, which ultimately means it will last longer without requiring a recharge. This is measured in watt-hours (Wh).
Power Output
When your generator is up and running, it will put out a certain amount of energy, measured in watts. It’s important to select a generator that offers enough watts for you to power your essential home appliances.
Inverter Rating
The inverter is a critical part of any backup power generator. Basically, this is the component that turns solar energy into AC (alternating current) electricity. Inverter rating, along with battery capacity, determine how much power you can get from your home backup generator.
Expandability
In order for your backup generator to function, you’ll need some way of charging it. And if you plan to rely on solar energy, that means using solar panels.
Expandability means that you can add solar panels to your generator as needed, making it easier to absorb more sunlight for energy. You will typically need a special solar adapter cable to facilitate this, which may need to be purchased separately.
Number of Outlets
How many devices, power tools, or appliances do you need to plug in? The functionality of your backup generator will be determined by how many outlets are available.
The type of outport ports is equally important. The most common types that buyers check for include mobile device charging ports (USB-A and USB-C), AC ports (the normal household wall outlet), and even 12-volt DC ports (what you probably have in your car).
Price
Of course, as you look for the best home backup generator, one of the most crucial considerations of all is your budget. We’ve sought to emphasize generators that offer maximum value.
Based on these criteria, we’ve determined the solar backup generators that offer the most consumer value. Check out our complete list of recommendations below. You can also read our complete review of the best solar energy companies for rooftop home solar systems. If you’re interested in learning more about going solar, fill out the form below to get connected with a local solar installer in your area.
Our Complete Reviews of Solar-Powered Generators
Best Overall: Renogy Lycan Powerbox
Renogy produces several different power stations and chargers, but we especially like the Lycan Powerbox, a solar power solution that’s only a little bit bigger than a suitcase. It comes with an easy-grip handle and heavy-duty wheels, making it one of the most portable solar generators around while still offering 1200W of output, which is enough power for most electronic devices and some appliances.
Why buy: The Lycan Powerbox can provide 1075 watt-hours of continuous power without the noise or fumes associated with gas generators. It offers great portability and includes an LCD display and easy, intuitive controls that allow you to switch between DC power and AC power as needed, as well USB ports and 12 volt car charger ports.
Best All-Purpose: Goal Zero Yeti 6000X
The Yeti 6000X is actually a portable power station that can be used for off-grid camping or powering an RV. With 6,000 watt-hours and two 2000W AC charger ports, it will give you plenty of power for your home. With a home integration kit, it’s easy to use the Goal Zero Yeti 6000X to power essential circuits.
Why buy: Though it isn’t exactly cheap, the Yeti 6000X power station is a great all-purpose backup generator, including a top-of-the-line charge controller and two robust AC outlets that make it easy for you to keep your household essentials up and running. It can even power a full-size refrigerator or microwave.
Best for Camping: Jackery Explorer 1000
The Jackery Explorer 1000 portable power station is one of the best all-around options, equally suited for outdoor activities and for emergency power readiness. Though it’s rated for 1,000 watts, it can actually get closer to 2,000. The lithium battery pack offers a capacity of 1,200 watt-hours, and Jackery’s professional MPPT technology makes it easy to get your unit fully charged in a relatively short span of time (usually just eight hours if you have two panels going).
Why buy: Jackery is one of the leading names in outdoor equipment and in clean energy products. This portable power station is a great pick for campers and can also be a very effective home backup power solution for small appliances and electronics thanks to its pure sine wave inverter AC outlets.
Most Affordable: Westinghouse iGen600s
Westinghouse Outdoor Power
Westinghouse is another company that specializes in solar powered generators, most of which are more ideally suited for camping trips. Their iGen600s portable generator, however, offers a wattage of up to 1,200 peak watts, which can certainly function as a decent emergency backup for certain household appliances and small devices.
Why buy: For a portable yet still very versatile solar generator, Westinghouse is a company to keep on your list. The iGen600 power system can run a mini fridge for up to 42 hours or a CPAP machine for up to 46 hours thanks to its lithium-ion battery that offers 592 Watt-hours of energy and a long battery life.
Fastest Charging: EcoFlow DELTA
The EcoFlow DELTA power station is a wonderfully rugged, dependable backup generator that can help meet your power needs during a blackout. For one thing, the charging time is incredible; you can potentially go from zero to 80 percent in under an hour with a wall outlet. Should you ever find yourself facing a power outage, this is an emergency energy solution you’ll be really thankful for.
Why buy: The DELTA station from EcoFlow offers a lot of value and usability; in particular, it has one of the fastest recharging times of any solar generator, which may be reason enough for you to choose it over the competitors. The DELTA unit offers 13 ports, meaning it’s compatible with pretty much any device or appliance you could ever need to charge.
Best for Appliances: MAXOAK Bluetti AC200P
For a heavy-duty emergency power solution, look no further than to MAXOAK, and particularly to a product called the Bluetti AC200P. With a 2000 Watt-hour capacity, this is one of the most robust solar generators you’ll find anywhere.
Why buy: MAXOAK’s Bluetti AC200P is the one you’re going to want for really heavy-duty home energy backup. With massive AC inverters that offer up to 4800W surge capacity, it can provide more than enough power to fuel all your most critical home appliances, even some HVAC units. Also note the two-year warranty, a generous consumer protection.
Most Powerful: Point Zero Energy Titan Solar Generator
Point Zero Energy is one of the foremost names in disaster preparedness, and when you take a look at their product specs, you’ll see why. Their Titan model solar generator offers almost twice the storage of similarly priced units with a high-capacity 2,000-watt-hour battery capacity and 3,000 watt high-efficiency inverter.
Why buy: On a purely technical level, this is the beefiest generator on our list, though of course, it’s also one of the priciest. The unit is made with high-efficiency components, meaning it doesn’t waste a lot of energy running the system; instead, it just supplies you with plenty of functional electricity when you need it the most.
How Does a Solar Generator Work?
Solar generators capture energy from the sun using photovoltaic solar panels, and store it in a built-in battery. Note that in order to absorb the sun’s energy, your portable generator will need solar panels.
These are typically sold separately, or as a package with the unit, so you’ll need to factor in this additional cost. Solar panels contain solar cells, which are typically made of monocrystalline or polycrystalline silicone that acts as a semiconductor.
Once the sun’s energy is stored in the battery, it is converted into AC energy. This happens via a component known as an inverter. AC power is required for most of your household appliances, as well as for charging devices like your phone, laptop, or tablet that normally require a wall charger or AC outlet.
We’ve included a short video below for a more in-depth look at how they work.
Can a Solar Generator Power My Entire House?
Generally speaking, a rechargeable solar generator won’t be able to power your entire house if you lose power. With that said, even a smaller generator can be used to power key devices or appliances, sometimes for days at a time depending on its power consumption. For instance, you can keep your refrigerator up and running, and/or ensure plenty of sustained use for medical devices, like CPAP machines.
With an especially robust generator, you may also be able to connect to core circuits, running multiple appliances at one time.
So, while having an emergency power supply from a solar generator may not mean that you can go about your life just like you would normally, you can at least keep the lights on at home, run your air conditioner, or ensure your perishable food items remain fresh until your electricity comes back on.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Solar Generator?
There are a number of advantages you can anticipate from an emergency generator, especially when you choose to go solar. Consider:
You can minimize the disruption of a power outage.
Again, inclement weather can cause power outages that last for hours, sometimes even days. During that time, you can use a backup generator to keep your essential appliances and devices up and running. This level of preparedness can offer ample peace of mind.
Solar generators offer a clean alternative to other energy sources.
Most generators are powered by fossil fuels, which means they emit a lot of noxious emissions. If you want a clean power source and a minimal environmental footprint, these solar solutions are just the ticket. They are also much quieter than traditional gas or diesel generators.
They can be very cost-effective in the long run.
While the initial purchase price of a solar generator may seem steep, keep in mind that sunlight is free. You don’t have to worry about buying fuel or any additional expenses associated with your solar unit.
Find the Solar Generator That’s Best for You
Disaster preparedness begins by identifying a reliable power source, and if you want that power source to be clean and renewable, solar generators are ideal. Take a moment to explore the options and find the generator that’s right for you.
In addition to the criteria we used to review solar generators, you may also want to consider the following when selecting a model:
- Charging Options: does it offer fast charging? Quick charge settings are always convenient when you need a full charge
- Durability: if you need a generator for camping, finding a durable one may help to extend its lifespan
All EcoWatch solar companies are pre-vetted for your convenience.
Writer and editor with more than a decade’s experience in journalism. Josh worked for Christianity Today for seven years, and has contributed to special assignments for Apple Music and iTunes. Josh lives in Knoxville, Tennessee with his wife, Kati, and two sons, Henry and Dylan.While he mainly focuses on musical journalism he is excited to save the earth on article at a time through sustainability best practices articles as well.
Irma joined the EcoWatch team in August 2015. She holds a Master’s degree and Bachelor’s degree from the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. She is a member of Kappa Tau Alpha – a national honor society of journalism.
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How Much Does a Whole House Generator Cost?
Home backup generators are quickly becoming a necessity in many parts of the world.
Winter storms, forest fires, hurricanes, and other extreme weather events are constantly stressing the aging power grid and leaving many families without power for weeks at a time.
Installing a whole-house backup generator can ensure that your family’s basic needs will be met, even amid a prolonged blackout.
Depending on the model you choose, a home backup generator can power your home exclusively with fossil fuels like gas or diesel — or with clean, renewable solar power.
The upfront investment and installation costs vary widely depending on the type of generator, manufacturer, output capacity, and fuel source.
Read on to learn more about what impacts home backup generator costs — and which solution is right for you.
How Much Does a Whole House Generator Cost?
Depending on the output capacity and quality of manufacture, a gas-fueled whole-house generator may cost anywhere between 1,000 to over 20,000. The average cost is around 5,000. How much electricity your household needs during an extended blackout will go a long way toward determining your initial and ongoing expenses.
EcoFlow Whole Home Backup Power Solutions are a battery-powered alternative to traditional gas generators. All of EcoFlow’s portable power stations allow solar charging from optional solar panels. These modern systems enable you to convert your home to off-grid solar power incrementally and at your convenience.
You can use portable power stations and solar panels full-time to offset your reliance on grid power or to store reserve energy for blackouts. Whole-house solar generators like the EcoFlow DELTA Pro have a starting price of around 3,700.
Factors That Influence the Cost of a Home Backup Generator
There are additional costs to consider other than just the initial purchase price when installing a home backup generator. You may also need connectors, a transfer switch, permits, and professional installation. The output capacity, type, and fuel source of your generator also play a significant role in ongoing and final costs.
Generator Size and Output Capacity
Large gas generators with higher output capacity typically cost more to purchase and operate. Gas generators generally run at full power whenever they are on, and the more electricity you consume, the more gas gets guzzled.
The impact of output capacity on fuel consumption differs when using solar generators and portable power stations. These devices can generate electricity using solar panels — and store energy from other sources like household AC power or your car. They don’t require constant fossil fuel consumption to operate.
The price ranges of a gas generator depend on their output capacity, measured in kWh:
- A 10 kWh gas generator can only support a relatively small amount of electricity usage during a power outage. These units are between 3,000 and 4,000.
- A 20 kWh will keep essential appliances and lights running during a blackout. Units of this size will cost between 7,000 and 12,000.
- A 38 kWh model is sufficient for the average family to fuel a home during a power outage. These units can cost between 13,000 and 16,000.
- A 48-50 kWh gas generator will cost between 17,000 and 20,000. This capacity is the largest size sold in most big-box hardware stores.
Generator Type
The type of generator also impacts the cost. The most common generator types are below:
Portable Generators
A basic gas-powered portable generator should not cost more than 1000, depending on the output capacity. However, these devices are extremely loud and create greenhouse gases and particulate pollution. Portable gas generators are not practical for indoor use during a power outage — using one indoors can be deadly. You can’t use portable gas generators as a whole-house backup solution.
Portable Power Stations
Portable power stations are a step up from the traditional gas generator. Most incorporate lithium-ion or LiFePo batteries, operate in near silence, and don’t generate toxic fumes or harmful emissions.
Some models — such as the EcoFlow DELTA Pro Portable Power Station — can also operate as a solar generator by adding solar panels. Portable power stations may cost 3,000-5000 up front, but solar panels can eliminate the ongoing operational costs of burning fossil fuels.
Standby Generators (Natural Gas)
Standby generators are permanent installations integrated into your home’s electrical panel and natural gas line. A standby generator will kick on within moments of the power going out and start producing electricity for the home. Depending on the capacity, the standby model may cost 10,000-20,000.
Inverter Generators
Inverter generators are an advanced version of portable gas generators. Most gas generators always run at full throttle. An inverter generator can adjust the engine intensity as needed. It helps consume less gas and reduce the noise and pollution associated with gas generators.
These units will cost more upfront than portable gas options. Like the latter, they also can’t support an entire home’s energy demands.
Fuel Source
The fuel source and refueling expenses significantly impact the ongoing operating costs of a home backup generator.
Gas
The price of a generator can shift wildly, as gas often go through dramatic changes. Gasoline price fluctuations reflect supply and demand and crude oil costs on the global market. Geopolitical factors beyond your control also regularly impact the price of gasoline.
On a local level, extended power outages and extreme weather can temporarily drive up the price of gas in a region just when everyone needs it most. Under certain conditions, going to a gas station to buy more fuel won’t be an option.
Diesel
Unlike gas models, diesel generators do not have carburetors. This results in less maintenance over the long term. Diesel generators also burn fuel more efficiently. These factors decrease the long-term costs of owning a diesel generator.
Propane
Propane is great for off-grid applications when a natural gas line or frequent trips to the gas station are impractical. Propane can be kept indefinitely if you store it properly, allowing you to always be ready for power outages.
Propane tends to be more expensive than gasoline or connecting to a natural gas line. Gas generators tend to be cheaper to operate, but propane burns much cleaner than gas or diesel.
Natural Gas
Natural gas generators usually connect to a utility gas line, allowing for unlimited use of your generator as long as the gas line is operational. However, the main line connection can cause fuel costs to add up, as you are not limited by the gas you have on hand. Natural gas is usually cheaper than propane but burns at about twice the rate.
Solar
Using solar energy will bring the ongoing fuel costs down to 0. Solar generators like the DELTA Pro portable solar generator do not require gas, propane, or any other fossil fuels to operate. Instead, homeowners can charge their generators with solar panels or from other sources like AC electricity before an outage.
The sun provides unlimited free energy as long as you have the solar panels to capture it.
Transfer Switch
Depending on the amps rating, a transfer switch that connects a generator to your home wiring may cost anywhere from 150 to 1000. You will also need an electrician to install the transfer switch. An electrician typically charges between 75 and 125 per hour for their labor.
Permits
Many states require permits for the installation of whole-house generators. Some states don’t have permit laws, while others only require permits for generators of a specific size. Permit costs usually range between 50 and 200.
You can find detailed information for generator permits by state here.
Installation
The average installation cost for a whole-house generator is between 500 and 3000. The installation bill depends on many factors, including the size and location of your generator. Large fossil fuel generators usually require a concrete pad, adding another 50-100 to your costs.
Cost of DIY Backup Generator Installation vs. Hiring a Professional
In theory, you can save a lot of money with a DIY backup generator installation — up to thousands of dollars in labor and other costs.
The total cost of a whole-house generator may end up between 5,000 and 20,000 for the equipment. But installation costs can bring that up by another 3000.
However, installing a whole-house backup generator is a multi-faceted project that can involve gas lines, electrical wiring, rooftop installation of solar panels, and pouring concrete.
Unless you are extremely confident in your DIY abilities, leaving the job to a professional is best.
Large gas generators are also heavy and unwieldy. Special machinery is usually required to deliver and properly place the unit. Even if you do a DIY installation, you may still have to pay for vehicle rentals to transport and unload the machinery.
Solar generators are modular — if you want more power, you can add extra batteries. Most solar batteries are reasonably sized and do not require a moving truck or other special equipment. However, connecting a solar generator to your existing home wiring and installing rooftop solar panels may also be better left to a pro.
Tips When Buying and Installing a Home Backup Generator
Buying and installing a home backup generator can be complicated. There are so many options, each varying in price and functionality. Here are a few tips to help make your search a bit easier:
- Anticipate Your Actual Usage. To save money, purchase a generator with only the output capacity that you will use. Check your electricity bills to help estimate your usage. If your area receives only short, occasional power outages, you may not need a large-capacity whole-house generator.
- Hire a Professional to Install Your Natural Gas Generator. Unless you are comfortable hooking up gas lines, leave the installation of your natural gas generator to a professional. Solar generators do not involve gas lines, so they are simpler and safer to self-install.
- Go Solar for Savings. Solar generators do not have a combustion engine like traditional fossil fuel generators. Using renewable energy allows them to save money in two ways: there are no ongoing fuel costs, and maintenance costs are virtually none. There aren’t nearly as many moving parts that can potentially fail.
- Choose Modern Systems. Newer generators will perform better, run more efficiently, and even include Smart features like Wi-Fi control and monitoring. The EcoFlow Smart Home Ecosystem allows homeowners to keep track of their solar generator usage, battery storage, and more — all from the convenience of your smartphone.
Frequently Asked Questions
A whole-house fossil-fuel powered generator may cost between 50 and 150 per day to run, depending on the output capacity of the generator and your energy consumption. Fuel makes up most of these costs, which could amount to 30 or more just for gasoline. Solar whole-house generators don’t have any fuel costs.
The installation of a whole-house generator may cost between 500 and 3000. The total expense may include the skilled labor required to install a transfer switch, natural gas lines, concrete pads, and more. You can save on these costs by performing all or part of the installation yourself — but remember, safety first!
Final Thoughts
Purchasing and installing a home backup generator can be a significant undertaking that involves working with gas lines, transfer switches for integrating with your home wiring, and permanent installation of solar panels or a large fossil fuel generator. Installation can become costly and confusing and usually requires outside professional help (especially for natural gas line connections and electrical wiring).
You can simplify the process by going solar. Solar power systems are modular so that you can increase your off-grid energy generation and storage over time. No professional installation is required for standalone portable solar generators, and there are no ongoing fuel costs.Check out EcoFlow’s state-of-the-art solar solutions for your home. Whether you need a whole-house generator solution or just need to power a few essential appliances, EcoFlow has an answer for you.
EcoFlow is a portable power and renewable energy solutions company. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow has provided peace-of-mind power to customers in over 85 markets through its DELTA and RIVER product lines of portable power stations and eco-friendly accessories.
Patriot Power Generator 1800
This best-selling portable solar generator is your “Magic Bullet” to protect you from blackouts, power failures the crumbling electric grid. Use the Patriot Power Generator inside your home — to power a fridge, freezer, medical devices more. It comes ready to use never needs gas… ever!
- The ultimate prepper gift
- Great for blackouts tailgates
- Charge for FREE in the SUN
- Fume-free, silent safe
- Use inside your home
- Included solar panel
- Power critical appliances
- 100% Satisfaction guarantee
- FREE Shipping Handling (lower 48)
Patriot Power Portable Solar Generator
Protect Your Family in a Dangerous Blackout with a Solar Panel Generator
A power outage can happen at any moment.
And the fact is that without power, everything will just. STOP. And when it does. those who aren’t prepared might sit defenseless in the dark. Helpless for many days, or even weeks.
Sure, you could use a gas generator. But those make a ton of noise, draw unwanted attention, have toxic fumes.
Not so with the Patriot Power Generator 1800. It’s lightweight, fume-free and safe to use inside your home. It’s whisper-quiet and won’t attract attention. Most importantly, you’ll be able to recharge it again and again… for FREE.
Picture all the ways you’ll use your solar generator:
- Cycle your fridge or freezer
- Charge cell phones laptops
- Keep CPAP oxygen going
- Turn on a TV for important news
- Run a fan, or electric blanket
- Take it tailgating or in your RV!
- Use power tools in weather event
- Turn on lights for comfort, or to ward off looters
- And much more
This solar generator could truly make a difference for you and your family in a crisis. Click “Add to Cart” to start your order now.
24 Hours a Day / 7 Days a Week / 365 Days a Year
A Solar Generator “Worth its Weight in GOLD!”
Real reviews from real customers. Sometimes customers receive a free product to test or receive a free product as a thank you for submitting honest feedback. For more information, see footnote 1.
Real reviews from real customers. Sometimes customers receive a free product to test or receive a free product as a thank you for submitting honest feedback. For more information, see footnote 1.
This Solar Generator is Powerful Easy to Use. Right Out of the Box!
Here’s what you’ll love about the best-selling Patriot Power Generator…
Superior Engineering
Inside your solar generator, there’s a powerful lithium-iron-phosphate battery famous for its stability. You’ll love the reliability and strength of this advanced engineering.
Power Storage than Before
Compared to the previous model, your Patriot Power Generator 1800 now has a continuous output of 1,800 watts, with 3,048 peak. And it can hold 768 Wh of power (60 Ah).
That means that if an appliance uses 1,800 watts of power or less, your Patriot Power Generator can run it. Most small appliances including your fridge and freezer fall into this group.
Run Times for Common Appliances:
USB Lamp. 193 Hours
Phone Charger. 153.6 Hours
Mini Fridge. 106 Hours
Fridge/Freezer. 19.2 Hours
Aquarium Heater. 5.1 Hours
CPAP Machine. 15.4 Hours
Portable Stove. 38 Minutes
Microwave. 51 Minutes
Run times are approximate; results vary based on appliance usage conditions. For more information, see footnote 5.
Plenty of Electrical Outlets
To make sure it’s ready to handle whatever you throw at it, the Patriot Power Generator includes 8 convenient outlets.
Truly Plug Play
You don’t need to be a gadget person to use your solar generator. Three simple steps and you’ll be up and running:
- Unfold your solar panel in the sunlight
- Plug your solar panel into the generator
- Plug your devices into the generator enjoy FREE power from the sun
Your solar generator arrives charged and ready to go. There’s no assembly required… you can start using it right away.
100-Watt Solar Panel Included
A commercial-grade solar panel comes with your unit. Many competitors make you pay separately for this! And their panels aren’t nearly as nice.
- Durable metal frame
- Reinforced corners carrying handle
- Folds easily for discreet storage
Even “daisy chain” additional solar panels together to double or triple your power… and to cut your charge time in half.
2,500 Lifecycles
You can recharge your solar generator 2,500 times. That’s like 6.8 years of daily use. About 4X the shelf life of most solar generators.
Fast Charge Times
Charge in as few as 3.5 hours with the included AC cord. Or charge in 10 sun hours with the included solar panel.
Compact Lightweight
Your Patriot Power Generator is only 40 pounds. It’s designed to be portable.
And it’s built tough. So while easy to move, your solar generator weighs about as much as 5 gallons of water, a big bag of pet food, or maybe your 3-year old grandchild (without all the squirming). Not super heavy, but just heavy enough to withstand a drop on the ground, rough handling, or even being run over by a truck. We tried it!
Patriot Power Generator 1800 Information:
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Claim Your Patriot Power Generator Now
24 Hours a Day / 7 Days a Week / 365 Days a Year
Customer Reviews: Folks Love This Solar Generator
I used my Patriot Power Generator during Hurricane Ian. I find regular generators annoying, but this ran my fan quietly all night, and nothing in my freezer went bad! I’ve already had quite a few people ask me where I got this. I tell them, instead of having to worry about gas or propane, Florida’s got the sun — hello! Use it!
I Feel Secure Having This
“The Patriot Power Generator handles my lights, AC if I need it, a small heater, my microwave and my TV. I also have a small refrigerator I can plug in. I put my solar panels on the trailer hitch and recharge while I use my generator inside.
I’ve used a gas generator before and spent 50 for gas for 3 days. But the Patriot Power Generator can go inside while I sleep, and I don’t have to worry about anything. I feel a lot more comfortable.
I’m really glad I made the investment. Don’t think about it too long. JUST DO IT.”
Real reviews from real customers. Sometimes customers receive a free product to test or receive a free product as a thank you for submitting honest feedback. For more information, see footnote 1.
Your 4Patriots Order is 100% Risk-FREE
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
If, for any reason, you’re dissatisfied at any time during the first 365 days after purchase, return the product to the original shipping warehouse, and you’ll receive a refund minus any shipping fees. You’ll get your money back. That’s a firm promise and commitment.
Your Order Helps USA Veterans
When you shop with 4Patriots, a portion of the proceeds goes to charities that support our veterans and their families. Including Operation Homefront, Fisher House, A Soldier’s Child-Foundation and Team Rubicon.
4Patriots and our affiliated brands have donated more than 975,000 since we founded the company. And the number keeps growing!
You can feel good knowing that you’re supporting our veterans while getting the peace of mind you deserve.
An American Company You Can Count On
Thanks to your support, we’re able to employ 175 American men and women from all across the USA. People who work hard and truly enjoy helping folks get prepared for emergencies.
Our office is located in Nashville, Tennessee. We’re real people – Americans. Not some 800 number in a foreign call center.
So, if you need help… please call or chat with our friendly, America-based customer service team today.
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Solar Panel Generator FAQs
Q: How long will my Patriot Power Generator 1800 keep me protected?
Q: How do you Daisy Chain the Panels?
Q: What if I can’t afford this?
Q: What if I change my mind?
Q: Is it safe to buy online?
- All testimonials in this advertisement are from real people; sometimes names and photos have been changed to protect their privacy and some were given free products in exchange for their honest feedback. Testimonials represent exceptional results, don’t apply to the average purchaser and are not intended to guarantee that anyone will achieve the same results. The organizations, publications and people referenced on this site are not affiliated with 4Patriots. They have not endorsed, sponsored or recommended this product; no affiliation or endorsement is claimed.Terms conditions apply.Cade Courtley is a former Navy SEAL and Platoon Commander who served 9 years of active duty and has been compensated by 4Patriots for his hard work in helping us test and endorse this product.
- Peak output for the Patriot Power Generator increased from 2,000 W (1500 model) to 3,048 W (1800 model). Continuous output is 1,500 W and 1,800 W, respectively. Storage capacity for DC devices increased from 600 Wh (1500 model) to 768 Wh (1800 model).
- Your survival food is designed to last 25 years on the shelf. Storage conditions impact the shelf life of your food. For best results, always protect your food from heat, air and moisture. Avoid prolonged exposure to temps above 75 degrees F. Keep food sealed until ready to eat. Shelf life will vary based on storage conditions.
- These kits are designed to provide energy and nutrients for one person in stressful emergency situations. They are not intended to be complete caloric replacements during “normal” times. You’ll want to make sure you have additional food items on hand so that in an extended emergency you’ll be able to supplement your daily calorie intake, nutrients and variety with additional food items available on this site, food you have stockpiled in your pantry, fresh produce from your garden, etc. An average adult needs approx. 2,000 calories per day to meet their energy needs. This kit provides approximately 1,253 calories per day for one person. This may not be enough for optimal nutrition, especially for an extended period of time. Keep in mind that caloric needs vary based on your age, gender and physical activity level. Every person’s needs, goals and desires for nutrition and calories are different. In order to supplement your daily calorie intake, to add variety or to provide food for more than one person, we offer a number of supplemental products, including food bars, meat packs, fruit and vegetable packs, etc. By combining our kits with these additional products, you can ensure that you have 2,000 calories per day available to you during emergency situations. We’d be happy to discuss your particular preparedness goals, and to help you select more or less survival food to meet your unique needs. Call 1-800-304-4202 to speak with our friendly Customer Service team.
- Refrigerators, freezers and similar appliances maintain a safe temperature by running on cycles. The CDC recommendation is to keep temperature below 40°F and above 32°F. If starting with a cold appliance, running backup power to your fridge for 1 hour will maintain temperature for about 4 hours. Usage conditions will impact this estimate (interior temp, exterior temp, appliance age features, fridge contents, etc.). Click here for more tips on cycling your fridge or freezer.
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What is a whole-house solar generator?
Nov 24th 2022
A whole-house solar generator is a special kind of solar generator that is equipped and powerful enough to power homes.
But what is a solar generator?
A solar generator is simply an all-in-one device that combines several solar technologies into one portable device.
The devices combined in a solar generator are:
Together the above devices when combined into a portable unit form a solar generator. It’s important to note that some manufacturers may call solar generators by different names if the solar panels don’t come with the portable unit. Examples of these names are:
Whole house generators are especially attractive to homeowners with little knowledge or expertise in solar and electrical wiring.
Whole-house solar generators are an attractive solution to your power needs because:
Their components work well together: The compatibility of a solar generator’s components is high and it’s easier to monitor and manage the unit with the DC Home App.
They are easy to install: A whole-house solar generator only needs a few connections to start working.
There is no need for complex calculations and component matchmaking: The components come in the right pairings for
They are portable: Unlike a traditional solar setup, a solar generator is not fixed and can be used for other purposes, e.g., camping, parties, construction, etc.
Can a solar generator power a whole house?
Yes. A solar generator can power your whole house if you pick the right one.
If you pick a solar generator with:
An insufficient battery capacity (energy storage measured in Watt-hours and Amp-hours) won’t be able to power your home for a long time
An insufficient inverter power output (measured in Watts) won’t be able to power your whole house. In fact, the solar generator may refuse to work completely.
Therefore, picking the right inverter with sufficient battery capacity and power output to satisfy your energy needs is crucial.
If you want to learn how to pick the right whole house solar generator, check out the section below with the subheading, “What size solar generator do you need to run a house”
Which is better, a whole house generator or solar?
The short answer is it depends on your unique situation.
Much as it is tempting to pick one over the other, things aren’t quite that simple.
If you are an average homeowner with little electrical knowledge, a solar generator is usually the better choice because solar generators have many advantages that cater to your specific needs. Solar generators features:
Simplified connections that shorten setup time.
Portability that enables you to carry your solar generator and use it for other purposes like parties, camping, construction, etc.
Easy to manage and monitor through one unified app or system using smartphones and other devices.
On the other hand, a traditional solar setup (fixed) might be better for individuals who aren’t afraid of some hands-on work and calculations. Traditional solar setups such as the solar panel installations on the roof involve more installation steps than a solar generator and will entail buying many more standalone components that you would need to mix and match.
Traditional solar’s benefits that are attractive to another group of people are:
The resulting setup more accurately matches your unique energy usage and needs. Unlike solar generators that usually come with cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all specifications.
A traditional solar setup is sometimes more affordable than a solar generator.
The opportunity to tinker and get intimately familiar with your solar system.
What size solar generator do you need to run a house?
To determine the size of the solar generator you need to run a house, here’s what you need to know:
Firstly, you need to know how much energy you use each day and each hour (measured in Watt-hours): You can get this information from your power utility bill. If it’s not listed on the utility bill, you can calculate the number of Watt-hours you use each month by subtracting your last two months’ energy usage (measured in Watt-hours, Wh). Take the result and divide it by the number of days to find the energy used each day. The average US household uses between 15000Wh to 30000Wh each day.
Secondly, you need to know how much power you will use at any given moment (measured in Watts): To calculate this figure you must make a table with all your devices and sum up all their Wattages to find the total power output needed to run your home. According to data from the Energy Information Agency (EIA). the average home needs an average of 1250 W each hour (30000 W/24 hours). Note that 1250 W is an average load NOT the actual load on the system. In reality, the load ranges from 1000W to 7000W. So the Lycan 5000 might be equal to the task after some adjustments.
Once you have this knowledge, you can determine the following:
1.The size of the inverter: The size of the inverter should at least be 120% greater than the power needed by your house. Suppose your total wattage is 3000W. In that case, your inverter should be around 3600W.
2.The capacity of the battery: The storage capacity of your solar generator’s batteries should be twice that of your energy consumption when there’s no sunlight. Suppose you use your batteries overnight and use an average of 500Wh for 12 hours. In that case, your total consumption would be 6000W. So your ideal battery capacity would be 12000Wh.
3.The number of solar panels: The minimum number of solar panels you need is calculated by dividing your battery pack’s storage capacity (Watt-hours) by the product of your region’s peak sun hours and your solar panels’ wattage. Let’s say you have a 10000Wh battery pack, 5 peak sun hours, and 320W solar panels. You would need at least seven 320W solar panels to charge your battery pack. And this is only a minimum estimate that doesn’t account for any power you might use while your battery is charging.
If all these calculations confuse you, don’t worry. Try out our simple solar powered calculator that will do all the calculations and even give you recommendations.
How much does a whole house solar generator cost?
The price of whole house solar generators ranges from a few hundred dollars to well over 6000.
Comparatively, you might find that our generators offer better value for your money, including long battery lifespans and device warranties.
The whole house solar generators you can buy with a modest budget below 1500 are the Phoenix 500 and Phoenix 1000. These two generators are not enough to replace grid power but they should be enough to tide you over emergencies.
PHOENIX 500 Solar Generator
The Phoenix 500 Power Station costs around 500 ( 499.99), which is a bargain considering the value it offers.
The Phoenix 500 comes with a 495Wh lithium-ion battery pack and an 800W inverter.
It’s important to note that the Phoenix 500 is not an ideal whole house generator because of its small size. A better option would be the Lycan 5000. However, if you are set on the Phoenix 500 because of its affordability, we recommend you buy two Phoenix 500 devices that you can run in parallel to double their abilities.
Phoenix 1000 Solar Generator
You can own the Phoenix 1000 by spending around 1000 (989.99)
This device comes with a 998.4Wh of LiFePO4 battery capacity and a decent 1500W inverter AC output. You can even run power-hungry devices using the Phoenix 1000’s iBoost technology that can support a load of up to 3000W. You can connect two Phoenix 1000 to double the capacity to 1997Wh and boost AC output to 2700W.
Lycan 5000 Solar Generator
The Lycan 5000 is the ideal whole house solar generator because it is specifically tailored to meet the average home’s energy needs. The Lycan 5000 boasts a 4800Wh LiFePO4 battery capacity and an AC power output of 3000W (7000W peak power).
How to choose the best whole house solar generator?
Here’s what you should know if you want to choose the best whole house solar generator:
Battery Lifespan and Storage Capacity: A solar generator is a huge investment so it should be able to last for a long time to make it worth its cost. For the best experience, a whole house solar generator should have LiFePO4 batteries (can last 10 years if used correctly) and an energy storage capacity of at least 4000Wh.
Inverter Type and Output: The ideal inverter in your generator should be a Pure Sine Wave (PSW) inverter that is compatible with all electronics. In addition, the inverter’s AC power output should at least be 3000W.
Cost: For the best value for your money, your chosen solar generator unit should cost around 5000 or less. When it comes to buying solar generators, cheaper isn’t always best as cheaper solar generators are guaranteed to have low-quality components like lead acid batteries that may last for a year.
Recharge Stats and Options: The best solar generators can charge using two methods at the same time. This will drastically reduce the time needed to recharge to around 1 hour. Take, for example, the Lycan 5000 that can charge using AC power from the grid (max 2400W) and Solar Panels DC power (max 4400W) at the same time for a max input power of 6800W.
Expandability: Your energy needs today won’t necessarily be the same as tomorrow’s. Your family might have more members or you might get more electronics that need power. Either way, you need a solar generator with an expandable battery pack that can accommodate any future changes in your energy needs. The Lycan 5000 is an excellent choice because its battery pack is expandable from 4800Wh to a maximum of 19200Wh.
Best solar generator for homes
It’s no secret that we think that the Lycan 5000 solar generator is the absolute best solar generator for your home. If you are not convinced, let’s take a look at some of its features:
Long-lasting 4800Wh battery pack expandable to 19200Wh: The LiFePO4 batteries with a lifespan of 4500 lifecycles can easily last for over 10 years. over, the expandable battery capacity should be enough to meet your needs.
A 3500W inverter with a peak power rating of 7000W: 3500W should be enough to run most of your household appliances. If you have many power-hungry devices it’s recommended not to use them at the same time. In addition, the 7000W peak power should be able to support the startup of most of your devices.
Max 6800W power input for fast recharge: Charging at the maximum 6800W will cut down your recharge time to around an hour. This means you can use the extra energy for whatever you want. For example, you can feed back the excess power back into the grid and make a profit.
Can be used as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS): If you have critical electronics that must be kept running 24/7 or you simply don’t like interruptions, the Lycan 5000 can seamlessly take over as your power supply whenever there’s a blackout.
With the above features, we believe you will find the Lycan 5000 to be the best solar generator for your home. If you buy the Lycan 5000 during a sale you can enjoy an excellent one-of-a-kind discount. Keep tuned on Renogy whenever it’s a holiday!
You might also consider buying the Phoenix 1000 or Phoenix 500 if the Lycan 5000 is more than you need now. If you buy the Phoenix 1000 or the Phoenix 500, we highly recommend you buy two of them so you can run them in parallel for twice the performance.
Check out the Lycan 5000 and our other products. or contact us if you have any questions.
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