How Much Solar Power do I Need to Run a Refrigerator?
Those that are looking to install a full off-grid solar power system often ask how much solar power they will need to generate in order to run basic household appliances. Even if you are just looking to off-set some of your electricity costs with solar power, it is useful to know how much solar power you will need to generate to put a significant dent in your monthly electricity bills.
This is why we are going to explain how you can determine how much solar power you will need to run your refrigerator. After we have explained how you can calculate how much power you will need to power your refrigerator, you will then be able to calculate the power needs for all of your appliances and portable electronics.
Calculating the Energy Requirements of Your Refrigerator
Each electrical appliance will require a specific amount of power to run. As you would expect, the power requirements for a small coffee maker are significantly different than the energy needs of a full-size refrigerator.
While refrigerators have relatively large power requirements, it is worth noting that not all refrigerators will require the same amount of power. Older models tend to drain more power than the more energy efficient newer models, while larger refrigerators will need more power than a smaller mini-fridge.
This is why it is important to calculate the exact energy requirements of your specific refrigerator before you go out and start shopping for solar panels. There are different ways you can determine the power needs of your specific refrigerator:
Method #1: Find the Energy Guide Label
While it may sound obvious, the easiest way to determine the power requirements of your refrigerator is to simply read the energy rating label. Since the 1980s, most appliance manufacturers have been required to participate in the Energy Guide program. As part of the program, appliances will come with a highly visible black and yellow sticker that will clearly state the energy requirements for that appliance, as well as an estimated cost of running it for a full year.
If your refrigerator is not brand new, you have probably already peeled the sticker off the front door; however, there are still ways you can quickly locate the information. For starters, you can usually find Energy Guide information inside the instruction manual of any appliance, by searching the manufacturer’s website, or by contacting their customer service department. Since refrigerators are large appliances, they also usually have a second sticker at the back.
Energy Guide labels will tell you the estimated annual electricity use of your refrigerator in kilowatt hours, or kWh. This information is exactly what you need to determine the fridge’s solar power needs.
Method #2: Find the Quoted Power Rating
If your refrigerator is an older model, or you cannot find Energy Guide information, you should be able to find the quoted power rating. This information is almost always added beside the product’s serial number and it will be listed in watts.
If you can find the voltage and required amperes, you can multiply the two in order to find the power requirements in watts. A simple equation you can use is Amps x Volts = Watts.
If all else fails and you cannot find the information anywhere, you might be better off simply estimating your refrigerator’s power requirements. Any modern Energy Star-rated refrigerator will use about 350kWh annually, while older, less efficient models will usually run closer to 600 kWh.
Calculating Running Watts Once You Have the Power Rating
Once you have the annual kWh requirements of your refrigerator, you can determine the running watts, which will tell you how much energy your solar panels will need to generate each day in order to power the appliance.
Once you have discovered the annual kWh energy consumption of your fridge, you will simply divide that number by 365, as this is the number of days in the year. From there, you can divide that number by 24, which will give you the watts required per hour.
For example, if your refrigerator had an annual energy rating of 365kWh, it would require 1kWh per day. Once divided by the 24 hours in a day, you would have a running watts requirement of 0.042kW/h, as 1kWh ¸ 24 = 0.042. This means you would require a solar power system that could supply 42W per hour, as a kWh is equivalent to 1,000W.
Determining Your Solar Panel Requirements
Once you have the energy requirements for your refrigerator, as well as any other electronics you plan on running with solar power, you can begin assembling an appropriate solar array. Selecting solar panels is actually fairly straightforward, especially when you already know your energy requirements. This is because solar panels are usually sold according to the amount of energy they produce in watts.
We carry a high efficiency 100 Watt Solar Panel and a 200 Watt Solar Panel, both of which are available at affordable and would be perfect for those looking to build a basic solar power system to supply enough power to run a refrigerator.
However, given the fact that refrigerators are classed as large appliances and have relatively large power requirements, you would most likely be better off going with one or more 300W solar panels. If you are new to solar power, or you would just like to know more about 300W panels, we encourage you to read through our Complete Guide to 300 Watt Solar Panels, which will explain factors that influence 300W solar panel efficiency, the power output of a 300W panel, and recommended brands you should look out for.
You can also shop our Entire Solar Panel Collection to find the exact solar panels you require for your specific power needs. We carry high-quality solar panels of all sizes from some of the best manufacturers in the entire solar industry.
Will You Need a Solar Battery and a Power Inverter?
Running a refrigerator off of solar power is not quite as easy as connecting it to a series of solar panels. Given the fact that refrigerators draw power 24 hours a day, it would be impossible to power one using only solar panels. Solar panels only produce electricity when they are exposed to sunlight, so you will need to connect the panels to both a battery and an inverter to provide constant power to your refrigerator.
In simple terms, the solar panels will generate electricity throughout the day, then that power will be converted to AC power and stored in a battery bank, which will be able to supply power to the fridge after the sun has set.
Sizing the Power Inverter and Battery:
Just like you need to size your solar panels, you will also need to purchase a power inverter and a solar battery that can actually handle the load your refrigerator requires. The power inverter should be able to handle roughly twice as much power as the maximum load you require.
For example, if your refrigerator required 1kWh per day, you should look for a 2,000W power inverter. For your battery, you want to make sure that it can store more than enough electricity to power your refrigerator for 24 hours, as there will be cloudy days when your solar panels cannot operate at full efficiency.
Since you will be connecting your solar panels to a battery bank, you will also need to purchase an appropriate charge controller. The charge controller will protect your battery by preventing overcharge issues, as overloading any battery can result in permanent damage.
Purchasing a Complete Solar Kit:
If all of this sounds overwhelming, do not worry, it is possible to simply purchase a complete solar kit. Solar kits are incredibly convenient, especially if you are just starting out with solar power. They come with everything you need to get started and, in most cases, bundling all of your solar equipment will keep the down and save you money.
Our Lion Energy 400-Watt Beginner Solar Panel Kit is a great place to start. In one convenient and affordable package, you get a foldable 100W solar panel, a 25-foot solar panel cable, a Savanna CC solar charge controller, a Savanna IV 400W power inverter, and a Safari UT 250 lithium solar battery.
Not only does this solar kit come with everything you need to immediately start generating environmentally-friendly solar power, it is expandable, meaning you will be able to upgrade individual components as your power needs and experience level grows. You can also add additional solar panels, which will reduce the amount of time it takes to fully charge the battery.
Final Words
While determining the power needs of your particular refrigerator may seem somewhat complicated, it is important that you take the time to do the proper calculations. Running an appliance that you use on a daily basis off of pure solar energy is a beautiful feeling. Not only will you save money on your monthly electricity bill, you will know that you are making an environmentally-friendly decision.
If you have any further questions about the power requirements of your appliances, or any other questions relating to solar power, please feel free to contact us at any time!
Did You Find Our Blog Helpful? Then Consider Checking:
- How Many Solar Panels do I Need
- How to Calculate Solar Panel Battery and Inverter
- How Many Solar Panels to Run Air Conditioner?
- Solar Panels Wattage Calculated
- How Many Solar Panels Per Acre?
- How Much Do Solar Panels Cost for a 1500 Square Foot House
- How Many Solar Panels to Generate 1 Megawatt?
- How Many Solar Panels to Charge an Electric Car?
- How Many Batteries Per Solar Panel?
- Solar Panels for Mobile Home
- Solar Panels for Apartments
- How to Heat a Greenhouse with Solar Panels?
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- Best States for Solar Panels
Bluetti solar generator expert review: choose the right one for you
Bluetti is a 3-year-old brand that primarily makes portable solar generators, battery backup systems, and foldable solar panels. Their products use LiFePO4 battery technology, which is currently regarded as the best kind of lithium battery on the market and has proven quite popular in the DIY and van life communities, allowing people to power important devices and appliances in off-grid situations.
We recently tested some Bluetti products to see how well they use solar power to keep the batteries charged and ready to deliver power to all sorts of energy-hungry devices. We found our Bluetti power bank and solar panel to be up to many important jobs around the yard, the house, and even in the wilderness.
Here’s a full review of Bluetti products and more information on all their uses.
Find out how many solar panels you need to eliminate your electricity bill
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Key takeaways
- Bluetti solar generators use lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery technology that is safer and longer lasting than other designs of lithium batteries.
- The company offers many battery products in capacities ranging from 268 watt-hours to 12.3 kilowatt-hours.
- Most Bluetti batteries are portable and all come with the ability to charge from solar panels, which the company also makes.
- The company offers warranties of 24 months for its smaller portable solar generators and up to five years for its large home backup solutions.
- With the wide range of options available, robust build quality, and great technology behind it all, SolarReviews recommends Bluetti products.
Bluetti’s technology
Bluetti’s key value proposition comes from its use of Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries. This combination of chemicals (LiFePO4, or LFP for short) makes Bluetti’s batteries more stable, longer lasting, and less environmentally harmful than typical lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries used by other popular solar generators. Bluetti says its LFP batteries can be cycled 2,500 (EB series) to 3,500 (AC and B series) times before being reduced to 80% of their original capacity, compared to other brands’ 500-cycle lifespan.
The next feature common to Bluetti’s Portable Power Stations is solar input. From the entry-level EB3A to the flagship AC200P, comes with an MPPT solar charge controller built-in, allowing the battery to get the most from solar panels. Bluetti makes its own foldable solar panel, but also provides standard MC4 connections so any compatible solar array can be used to charge its batteries (with allowable input wattage that differs for each of its products).
Finally, Bluetti includes a pure sine wave inverter in each of its batteries and provides multiple DC and AC outlets to provide options for powering devices. Typical outlets include USB-A, USB-C, 120V AC, and 12V DC. In addition, all Bluetti Portable Power Stations come with 15W wireless charging pads built into the top of the unit.
How a Bluetti Solar generator works
In order to provide a good review of Bluetti’s Portable Power Stations, we purchased a Bluetti EB55 along with a PV120 foldable solar panel. With this pair of products, you can provide power to numerous devices away from home, and even provide yourself some peace of mind in the event of a power outage.
We found the EB55 to be a well-built, capable and versatile piece of equipment. It is an excellent option for people who need power on the go, whether it’s in an off-grid camping setting, as an RV accessory, or even just a fun day at the park or beach.
Bluetti EB55 Details
The EB55 has 537 watt-hours (Wh) of storage capacity and can output 700W of continuous power (1,400W surge). That’s not enough power to start an air conditioner, but it is enough to run a full-sized refrigerator for a few hours during a power outage, or several smaller appliances for a full day, even without recharging.
Accessories that come with the Bluetti EB55 (L to R): solar charging cable, DC charging cable, AC cord, velcro strap, and power brick.
Inside the box, the EB55 comes with an AC power supply, a cable for charging from a vehicle’s DC outlet, and a cable for charging from solar panels. The EB55 has 12 outlets:
- Four USB-A
- One USB-C
- Two grounded and two ungrounded 120V AC outputs
- Two 12V/10A DC
- One 12V DC cigarette lighter outlet
The unit is a compact 10.94 x 7.87 x 7.79 inches and weighs in at 16.5 lbs, with a foldable carrying handle on top. There is a built-in cooling fan with vents on the side of the unit, and a small backlit LCD screen on the front that displays the state of charge and input/output wattage using two shades of blue.
Charging
The Bluetti EB55 can charge from AC power with the included power brick, DC power from the solar panels, or both at the same time. It can also be charged using a 12V DC output from a vehicle or from a generator. Charging power is up to 200W from AC or solar, or 400W from both AC and solar at the same time.
In our tests, Bluetti’s 120W solar panel delivered its maximum power to the EB55 effortlessly under full sun on a warm day. The solar panel is about 2 feet high by 6 feet wide, with four sections that fold out from the stored position. On the back of these sections are thin “legs” that fold away from the main body and allow the user to adjust the angle at which the panel is placed relative to the ground, between 40° and 50°.
Features of the Bluetti PV120 solar panel: fully folded, zippered pouch with wires, adjustable leg.
The whole solar panel is clad in ripstop-style polyester fabric, with a hard plastic handle at one end that is used for carrying the panel when it’s folded up. The solar sections themselves are laminated inside Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) sheets, which allows them to be flexible and resist fading and cracking due to high temperatures and UV radiation. A zippered pouch on the back of one section contains the cables and a list of specifications.
The fully-extended PV120 solar panel.
We’d recommend keeping the battery out of full sun because it heats up when charging.
Thankfully, the EB55 comes with a 5.5-foot solar charging cable with MC4 connectors, and the PV120 panel comes with its own 9.5-foot cable, making it easy to place the panel in the sun and the battery somewhere nearby in the shade. And because Bluetti uses standard solar connectors, additional cables can be purchased online from a variety of sources if you need more than 15 feet between the panel and the battery.
A word of caution: Bluetti solar panels are IP65 rated, meaning they can handle a little splash of water, but can’t withstand rain and snow. Only put them out on a dry day.
In testing the AC charging, we easily got the promised 200W from the charger, although it should be noted that the charging brick has its own internal cooling fan that can get a little noisy, so it’s best to charge it out of earshot. Either the AC adapter or the solar input is capable of filling the EB55’s 537 Wh of storage in about 3 hours from empty, and combining solar and AC together can increase the power to 400W, decreasing charging time down to just 1.8 hours.
Using Power
In our tests, the EB55 was capable of powering many important appliances and devices, and we recommend it for medium-light duty applications like phone and laptop charging, camping, or even for short-duration events like small concerts in the park where no power is available.
We tested our EB55 in a few ways: powering a small outdoor pool pump, running live sound through a PA speaker, and running a full-size refrigerator. In all these tests, the EB55 performed very well.
The Bluetti EB55 running a pool pump.
With its 537 Wh of battery capacity, it could theoretically run the 33W pool pump for 16 hours, even without solar recharging. At medium volumes, the PA speaker and some guitar pedals used 25W. Imagine an afternoon pool party with a rock Band at a remote location run entirely by one Bluetti EB55 battery. All you’d need is transportation and a water source.
Closer to home, the refrigerator drew between 105W and 220W, depending on the cycle it was running, so it could be kept running for 3 hours or more during a power outage. If you add 4 hours of solar charging at an average of around 100W, you could extend that time to six hours or more. By plugging in the fridge only sporadically, you could theoretically keep food cold for days during a power outage using a single EB55 and solar panel, and probably have enough energy left over to keep your phone topped off.
Because of its LiFePO4 battery cell chemistry, the Bluetti should be able to fully charge and discharge 2,500 times, which could mean several years of power even with twice daily cycling. That many cycles should still leave the battery at 80% of its original capacity.
It’s a pretty remarkable little battery, and well worth its 499 MSRP. But the EB55 is one of the smallest capacity batteries Bluetti offers, and some of the company’s products can do much more than keep your food cold for a few hours.
Bluetti product comparison
Now let’s look at some of the key specifications of Bluetti’s product lineup. The company has offerings as small as the entry-level EB3A with a 268 Wh battery pack and as large as the expandable AC300 inverter module, which doesn’t come with its own battery but can instead be paired with up to four B300 expansion batteries for 12.3 kWh of storage. That’s nearly as large as a Tesla Powerwall.
The smaller, more portable power stations (basically anything that will fit in Bluetti’s carrying case) are fairly simple; just boxes with batteries, inputs, and output ports, while the larger offerings like the Bluetti AC200MAX and AC300 come with Bluetooth and can be controlled via the Bluetti smartphone app (the newer, small EB3A is also app-enabled). For very large battery backup needs, two AC300 inverter modules can be paired with Bluetti’s AC300 Fusion Box for a 240V system with up to 24.5 kWh of storage.
Here’s a rundown of Bluetti’s portable models and their key specs:
| Product | Capacity | Output (surge) | Max input W | # of outlets | Expandable | Max capacity |
| EB3A | 268 Wh | 600W (1,200W) | 430W SolarAC | 9 | N | N/A |
| EB55 | 537 Wh | 700W (1,400W) | 400W SolarAC | 12 | N | N/A |
| EB70S | 716 Wh | 800W (1,400W) | 200W Solar/AC | 12 | N | N/A |
| AC200P | 2,000 Wh | 2,000W (4,800W) | 1,200W SolarAC | 17 | N | N/A |
| AC300 inverter module | N/A | 3,000W (6,000W) | 5,400W SolarAC | 16 | Y | 12,288 Wh |
| AC200MAX | 2,048 Wh | 2,200W (4,800W) | 1,300W SolarAC | 15 | Y | 8,192 Wh |
| B230 expansion battery | 2,048 Wh | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| B300 expansion battery | 3,071 Wh | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Cost
Like a lot of technology products you can find on Amazon, Bluetti products often go on sale, and people looking for the company’s products can often find coupons and discount codes online. For reference, here are the MSRPs of the most popular Bluetti products:
- EB3A: 299
- EB55: 499
- EB70S: 599
- AC200P: 1,699
- AC300 inverter module: 1,899
- AC200MAX: 1,899
- B230 expansion battery: 1,399
- B300 expansion battery: 2,199
- PV120 solar panel: 299
- PV200 solar panel: 499
- PV350 solar panel: 849
Bluetti battery warranties
The warranty is where portable batteries like Bluetti falter a bit compared to purpose-built home solar batteries. The warranty for most Bluetti products covers just 24 months of defects due to materials and workmanship. These products are designed to last for a long time, but the manufacturer doesn’t offer long-term coverage for most of its products.
That said, if you spring for the AC300 with one or more B300 expansion batteries, Bluetti offers 48 months of warranty coverage. Larger home battery backup systems like the EP500Pro come with 5-year warranties. These don’t quite match the 10-year warranties offered by companies like Generac and LG, so if you’re concerned about long-term coverage, one of those battery solutions might be better for you.
Ironically, Generac and LG use lithium NMC batteries, so the Bluetti should theoretically outlast them. Bluetti says its EB-series batteries will last for 2,500 cycles before being reduced to 80% of their original capacity, and its AC- and B-series batteries get estimates of 3,500 cycles before hitting 80%. Assuming one full cycle per day, that’s over 9 years.
How does Bluetti compare to the competition?
When it comes to the best solar generators, Bluetti is among the top contenders. Its LFP battery cells are rated to last five times as long as products from main competitors Jackery and GoalZero, and its products are every bit as durable and easy to use.
With 48-60 month warranties on its flagship products, Bluetti exceeds the standards set by its competitors, which almost all offer only 24 months of coverage. To be fair, their 500-cycle lifespans will almost certainly be up within those 24 months of regular usage, so Bluetti has a chance to extend its warranties and further set itself apart from Jackery, GoalZero, and others. We hope to see that as Bluetti products spend more time in the wild and prove their durability.
Which Bluetti product is right for you?
If you’re on the go and need to keep small appliances powered in an off-grid situation, the EB55 is an excellent choice. If you just want to keep your phone charged in the wilderness, the new EB3A is a great, inexpensive option.
For longer trips and cabin stays, the AC200P provides a robust amount of energy storage and power output that could keep an off-grid cabin very comfortable, especially when paired with a few Bluetti solar panels wired in series.
For home backup applications, we recommend the EP500 Pro over the AC300 with expansion batteries, simply because of the form factor and the 5-year warranty. If Bluetti ever increases its warranty protection for its modular batteries, we’ll update that recommendation accordingly.
Bottom line: are Bluetti products good?
Bluetti’s batteries and solar panels compare favorably with the majority of other portable solutions on the market. The LFP batteries and ETFE-clad solar panels are powerful and well-built products designed for a life lived outside of the boundaries of the electric grid. On top of that, Bluetti meets or exceeds industry standards for portable devices with 2-5 year warranties on its products.
One caveat here is that the company is still only a few years old, and it remains to be seen whether its batteries will match the estimated 2,500-cycle lifespans, and whether the company will prove adept at handling customer complaints if they don’t. But the tech is solid, the products are proving popular and well-liked, and Bluetti reps actively engage customers through multiple channels, including an owners’ group. The company seems to be doing things right.
Another caveat is that Bluetti’s solar panels aren’t as robust as actual home solar panels. For example, they aren’t designed to be outside in the rain and snow. If you’re looking for something to act as a fixture on your home or even off-grid cabin, real roof- or ground-mounted solar panels are much more robust, and can survive the weather for decades. And you can still use Bluetti battery backup with a well-designed solar installation.
The Bluetti PV120; SolarReviews and Bowie-approved.
Regardless of the caveats, Bluetti is making some great products. If you’re looking for a way to keep important devices powered up while in the wilderness, Bluetti batteries and solar panels have our recommendation.
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.
Claim Your Patriot Power Generator Now
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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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The 7 Best Solar-Powered Generators of 2023
Heidi Wachter was a senior editor at Experience Life magazine for 10 years. She has written for publications like Experience Life, Shondaland, and betterpet.
Our top pick is the Yeti 1500X Portable Power Station. However, if you want a smaller, less expensive option, consider the Jackery Explorer 500W.
It’s always good to have a backup in life, especially when the power goes out. Gas-powered generators can do the trick, but they’re loud, emit smelly fumes, and require a place for storing gasoline safely. They also contribute to climate change.
Solar generators, on the other hand, are clean, easy to use, don’t require fossil fuels, and are becoming more and more affordable as solar technology improves. They can be particularly useful in emergency situations where other fuel supplies are cut off or difficult to access. Solar generators typically capture the sun’s energy via stationary or portable solar panels that are sold separately, convert it into electrical power, and store it in a battery for later use.
What’s the best generator for you? First, estimate how much power you need to run appliances, laptops, and televisions in your home should a power outage occur or for whatever you’ll need to power up while you’re camping, living off the grid, or traveling in an RV.
Once you know how many watts you’ll need; consider the other features you want such as USB charging ports and rechargeable batteries. You can avoid blowing your budget by selecting a generator with features that make the unit more efficient rather than more expensive.
We researched the market to recommend the best generators that are compatible with solar panels.
Best Overall
Goal Zero Yeti 1500X Portable Power Station
Need to power your laptop, phone, power drill, coffee maker, and refrigerator all at once? The Goal Zero Yeti 1500x is a high-capacity power station that supplies electricity with the touch of a button or the Yeti 3.0 app. Weighing in at 43 pounds, it’s a solar option for those living the van life or to provide back-up energy when power lines go down.
The lithium battery supplies 1500-watt hours, so you can charge your phone a hundred times or run a refrigerator for up to a day. Its industry-leading 2000-watt AC inverter is one of the most powerful on the market, making it our top overall pick. The integrated MPPT charge controller increases efficiency by 30% when recharged with a compatible Goal Zero solar panel. Everything is backed by a two year warranty.
Price at time of publish: 1,800
Output: 2000 watts | Weight: 43 pounds | Dimensions: 19 x 14 x 14 inches | Output Ports: 2 USB-A ports, 1 18 watt USB-C, 1 60 watt USB-C PP, 1 6mm port, 1 12 Volt (regulated), 1 12 volt HPP, 2 120 Volt AC inverters
Best Portable
Jackery Explorer 500 Solar Portable Generator
Weighing in at a relatively light 13.3 pounds, the compact, durable, and affordable Jackery Explorer 500 lets you take solar-powered electricity along on every adventure. The 500-watt inverter provides enough juice for charging multiple devices in any either of the AC or DC ports or one of the three USB ports.
It comes with a car charging cable and an AC adaptor. Like many of the solar generators in the Jackery family, the unit can be recharged from an AC wall outlet or with a Jackery SolarSaga solar panel (sold separately). The 518-watt rechargeable battery will need replacing after about 500 uses, but that’s after a lot of camping trips.
Price at time of publish: 500
Output: 500 Watts | Weight: 13.3 pounds | Dimensions: 11.8 x 7.6 x 9.5 inches | Output Ports: 1 AC outlet (110V 500W 1000W Peak), 3 USB ports, 2 DC ports, 1 car port
Best for Emergencies
ITEHIL LiFePO4 500W 500Wh Solar Generator
If you’re looking for source of backup power that’s cleaner than a diesel generator, the ITEHIL power station is an excellent option. With high-speed charging, you can get your devices back up and running when the power goes out, as well as a built-in light. You can charge it via solar panels (ITEHIL separately sells panels that fold into a suit-case style envelope), a car charger, or a wall plug. There are both U.S. and international AC plug versions of the device.
At nearly 19 pounds, it’s heavier than our Best Portable pick, but is still light enough to be moved around fairly easily, and has built-in handles. Our tester notes that it’s not big enough to power most full-size refrigerators, but could power a small electric cooler. It has an intuitive display that shows how much battery capacity is remaining.
“It seems to be well-designed for safety, and includes warnings like ‘do not stick fingers directly into the power port.’” ~ Lloyd Alter, Treehugger Design Editor
Price at time of publish: 500
Output: 500 Watts | Weight: 18.74 pounds | Dimensions: 14.17 x 13 x 13.4 inches | Output Ports: 2 AC outlets (100-120V 500W), 2 USB-A ports, 1 QC USD-A Poert, 1 Type C, 1 DC ports, 1 car port
Best Budget
Jackery Explorer 160 Portable Power Station
While many of the budget generators still cost over 200, this affordable option from Jackery comes in at under 150 and has a two-year warranty. It’s also one of the lightest option on the market at just under 4 pounds, making it another great pick for camping or even backpacking.
It can be charged using a solar panel, wall outlet, car outlet or electric generator. It’s great for charging your phone or camera, or running small appliances like a fan or laptop. It has a surge capacity of 150 watts, but you should avoid using it with any device that has a 100 watt or higher rating.
Price at time of publish: 150
Output: 100 watts | Weight: 3.97 pounds | Dimensions: 7.4 x 4.5 x 6.7 inches | Output Ports: 1 100 watt AC outlet, 1 USB-C, 1 USB-A
Best High Capacity
Bluetti AC200P 2000WH/2000W Portable Power Station
With just as many watts as our Best Overall pick, the Bluetti 2000W Portable Power Station can be charged five different ways and has 17 different output ports, each of which is covered by a high-quality dust cap. You can charge it using solar panels (not included), a via a wall outlet, car plug, using a generator, or lead acid battery.
You can hook up a number of smaller devices, at the same time, like a laptop, camera charger and several phones. Or you can use it as back-up power for larger appliances—according to the manufacturer, you can power an 800 watt wall refrigerator with this power station for over two hours.
A nice feature is the LED touch screen, which can tell you how much energy you’re drawing down and how much battery charge is remaining. You can also set it to an Eco mode, which will shut the device down if it senses you’re not using it after several hours. It has rubberized feet, so the unit won’t slip around on smooth surfaces. It’s also quite heavy so it’s not ideal for camping situations where you’d need to carry it, but it is compact enough to fit into a car trunk.
Price at time of publish: 1,599
Output: 2000 watts | Weight: 60.6 pounds | Dimensions: 16.5 x 11 x 15.2 inches | Output Ports: 6 110 Volt AC outlets, 1 DC 12 Volt/10A, 1 DC 12 Volt/25A, 2 DC 12 Volt/3A outlets, 4 USB-A ports, 1 USC-C port, 2 wireless charging ports
Best for Home
Point Zero Energy Titan Solar Generator
True to its name, the Titan is packed with power. Its 3000-watt inverter has enormous output capacity for powering up household appliances like refrigerators and portable AC units with ease. Are you in heavy Cloud cover? No problem. The Titan includes a stackable battery bank, which can be combined with additional batteries (sold separately). You can recharge the generator via solar panels, an AC outlet, or a DC car charger.
In addition to extra batteries, you can also add on USB adaptors or a car charger. THE MPPT charge controllers allow it to reach full battery capacity in about four hours making the Titan a versatile, efficient, and reliable backup plan.
Price at time of publish: 2,716
Output: 3000 watts | Weight: 67 pounds | Dimensions: 18.5 x 12 x 12 inches | Output Ports: 6 AC outlets, 4 DC 12 Volt outlets, 1 NEMA TT-30
Also Great
MAXOAK Bluetti Portable Power Station
During extreme weather events, generators like the ones on this list can sell out quickly. So, if other options aren’t available, there’s a lot we like about this one. The Bluetti stores plenty of power at an affordable price. It’s 1500-watt-hour lithium-ion battery is quick-charging and ample for powering up most home appliances during a blackout.
While it serves as a great home power supply during an emergency, the MaxOak Bluetti is also portable enough take along on fishing or a road trip. It includes two AC ports and five USB outlets and a 12-volt DC outlet that can handle a mini-fridge. There’s also a nifty LCD display to help you track the generator’s performance.
Output: 1000 watts | Weight: 37.9 pounds | Dimensions: 14.6 x 6.5 x 14.4 inches | Output Ports: 2 110 Volt AC outlets, 1 12 Volt regulated DC, 45 watt USB-C, 4 USB-A ports
If you’re looking for something high powered to help you weather a storm, the Yeti 1500X Portable Power Station is our top choice. If you need something portable for a camping trip, then the Jackery 500W might be your best new travel buddy.
What To Look for in a Solar Generator
When deciding what solar powered generator is right for you, consider which types of appliances, tools, and devices you need to charge and how often you’ll be without a traditional power source. Here are some other tips to help guide your decision-making.
Solar Panels
There are three common types of solar panels—monocrystalline panels, polycrystalline solar cells, and thin film, or amorphous crystal panels. They each offer different efficiency levels. Monocrystalline panels are most common and slightly more efficient than polycrystalline cells. Thin film panels are a newer technology and are light, flexible, durable, and more affordable than the others, but about half as efficient as the other types. Sometimes they’re included with the generator and sometimes they’re sold separately.
Battery Capacity and Power Rating
Solar generators run on stored energy so you’ll want to consider the battery’s capacity (the total amount of electricity stored). You’ll also want to know the power rating (how much power is delivered at a time). A battery with a high capacity, but low power rating typically delivers less electricity for a longer period of time.
Battery Type
Lead-acid and lithium-ion are the most common options. Lead acid are used to power things like automobiles, while lithium-ion options are often used to run power tools. They’re increasingly used in solar-powered generators because they’re lightweight. While they tend to be more expensive than lead-acid varieties, they typically have a longer lifespan which saves money on replacement batteries and keeps them out of landfills.
Charge Controllers
In order to regulate the current between the solar panels and the battery, the simplest controllers cut the power when maximum voltage is reached. This isn’t as efficient as models that use three- power point tracking (MPPT).
Inverter
Converting direct current (DC) from solar panels to alternating current (AC), inverters carry a watt rating to show the maximum output of power they can generate. Pure sine wave inverters are more expensive, but more efficient. But they’re not necessarily a cost-effective option if you only plan on using the generator occasionally.
Weight
Will you be using your solar generator in your home or on the go? For portability, look for units that are easier to carry and maneuver, and that house parts in a sturdy box rather than as separate pieces.
Other Features
Note the presence of multiple USB ports and AC outlets, replaceable batteries, and LED panels that help you monitor your system when it’s dark. Finally, consider the length of a unit’s warranty, or any other manufacturer grantees.
When determining the size of generator, you’ll want to look at output measured in watts, as well as storage capacity measured in watt hours (Wh). As a general rule of thumb, generators with under 1000 Wh can keep electronics charged, and are great for camping. To power many devices in your home for longer, you’ll want a large generator with around 1500 Wh capacity.
If you want to keep those devices charging and in use for five hours:
So, in this case you’d want a generator with at least 85 watts of output and 425 Wh of capacity. When in doubt, round up. For another way to calculate your needs, you may find this explainer from the manufacturer Jackery helpful.
Keep in mind that most solar generators do not connect to your home’s electrical panel, so they won’t power hard-wired devices like your hot water heater or ceiling lights; for that type of power you’ll want to consider a home battery system.
Solar generators should last at least 20 to 25 years. Many manufacturers offer warranties that cover repairs and replacements should anything malfunction within the first few years of use.
Most high-capacity solar generators cost between 1000 and 2000. Generally speaking, larger generators cost more than smaller, portable devices. The generators on the list range from between 140 and 3,400 without taking into account sales or discounts.
Why Trust Treehugger?
Treehugger is committed to helping our readers transition away from fossil fuels, and we deeply researched the market to find the best generators compatible with solar panels.
A travel and adventure writer for many years, author Heidi Wachter knows how handy the sun’s rays can be for keeping her phone and camera charged.
Maggie Badore is an environmental reporter and editor based in New York City. She started at Treehugger in 2013 and is now the Associate Editorial Director.
What Size Generator Do I Need To Run Refrigerator And Freezer?
During blackouts and in emergencies, running most essential appliances like refrigerators and freezers is important for keeping the food fresh and edible until the blackout is over.
A large enough generator can power not only refrigerators and freezers but other home appliances including lights, TV, communication devices, and similar, helping people endure the emergency more easily. But, how large generator is large enough?
Published: January 25, 2022.
On This Page:
Refrigerator and Freezer Power Requirements
Power requirement of refrigerators and freezers depends on their size and age. newer, energy star compliant units, require less power to operate than the older units. For example, a modern refrigerator/freezer typically requires:
On the other hand, older energy star non-compliant units require up to 700-1000 running watts and 2000-3000 starting watts.
Note: even if You don’t have issues with the mains power, blackouts and emergencies, if You have an older refrigerator (with or without a freezer), consider replacing it with a new, energy much more efficient unit.
In order to figure out the exact power requirements of your refrigerator, check its documentation or label that can often be found at the backside of the fridge (or on the doors, or similar places).
Running vs Starting Power
Refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, drills, fans, and similar appliances and tools feature electric motors that require much more power when starting.
For example, if an average energy star compliant home refrigerator and freezer requires 250 watts continuously, it requires at least 1000-1200 starting watts. such power surge can be strong enough to overload the generator, causing its safety system to disconnect the generator from the external load, essentially powering off the refrigerator and other loads, if present.
This can be avoided by using a large enough power generator and connecting the external loads in a specific order. refrigerators and other loads with electric motors first, and only then other loads like TV, lights, multimedia, communication devices, and similar.
Before buying a suitable generator, it is a good idea to make a list of required home appliances and other loads that must operate during the blackouts. for safety reasons, always go for a somewhat stronger generator.
For most homes, smaller closed-frame quiet power inverter generators with the output power in the 2000-4000 Watts are the most suitable units:
Running Watts
Starting Watts
AC: 120V 20A 5-20R, 120V 30A L5-30R; DC: 12V 8.3A, USB 5V
AC: 20A 120V 5-20R Duplex; DC: 12V 8A
AC: 20A 120V 5-20R Duplex; DC: 12V
AC: 20A 120V 5-20R Duplex; DC: 12V 5A
AC: 120V 20A Duplex 5-20R, 120V 30A L5-30R; DC: two USB ports (5V/2.1A, 5V/1A)
AC: 20A 120V Duplex; DC: 12V
AC: 20A 120V Duplex; DC: 12V 100W (8.3 Amps)
AC: 120V 20A Duplex, 120V 30A L5-30R
AC: 2x NEMA 5-20R; DC: 12V (8.3A), 2x USB 5V (1A, 2.1A)
AC: 15A 120V NEMA 5-20R Duplex; DC: 12V, USB 5V (2.1A, 1A)
AC: 20A 120V Duplex; DC: 12V, 2x USB 5V
AC: 120V 20A 5-20R Duplex, 120V 30A TT-30R; 2x USB 5.0V (2.1, 1.0 A)
Note: Amazon affiliate links (‘Model’ Column) open in the new Windows, feel free to check them for the most up-to-date offers and prices.
A power generator with a noise level of below 50 dB when running @25% is considered a quiet unit, but some of these units are so quiet that, when not heavily loaded, one must come close to the unit to verify if it is running or not.
Generator Types
There are several generator types that are suitable for powering refrigerators and freezers, but other home appliances as well. just be sure to start the units with electric motors first.
Power Generators
Power generators burn fossil fuels and emit dangerous fumes that contain Carbon Monoxide (CO) and MUST be operated outside, at some distance from home, down the wind. before running any power generator, be sure to read its Owner’s Guide thoroughly, especially safety features, issues, and procedures.
Power generators may use gasoline (gas), LPG (Liquid Propane Gas), natural gas, diesel, or a combination of two or more fuels.
Having a dual-fuel or tri-fuel power generator allows the user greater freedom in finding suitable fuel for the power generator, which can be an issue in emergencies when gas is usually the first one to be sold out.
But, when the fuel tank is empty or the propane bottle is empty, all the user has to do is to fill the gas tank or connect a new propane bottle and the power generator can resume its operation.
Solar Generators/Power Stations
Solar generators, also known as Power Stations, convert the energy stored in batteries (DC power) to provide AC power for external loads.
Unlike power generators, solar generators may operate safely indoors since they don’t emit any fumes or gasses. Also, solar generators are very quiet during operation.
When the batteries are discharged, they can be recharged using mains power, solar panels, or. a power generator.
Many advanced models of solar generators support so-called pass-through charging. the unit can be recharged, for example with solar panels, and can provide power to external loads at the same time.
Obviously, both power generators and solar generators have their pros and cons. in many cases, having both of them can significantly ease the crises when the power is gone for a longer period of time.
Note: Large Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) units can also be used to power refrigerators and freezers during emergencies. essentially they are very similar to solar generators/power stations, except UPSs are larger units usually placed on the fixed positions at homes with an automatic switch from the mains power to the battery.
Also, some solar generators/power stations can be used as small, portable UPS units, blurring the borderline between UPS units and solar generators/power stations.
Few Final Words
If You are looking for a generator to power your refrigerator and freezer during blackouts, go for a strong enough power generator and/or solar generator.
And when connecting and turning the units On, always first start units with electric motors (refrigerators, washing machines, fans, air conditioners, etc.) to prevent overloading the generators. if they are overloaded, their safety systems disconnect external loads, practically shutting them off.
Note: again, never operate power generators indoors. they must be operated outside, at a certain distance from home. On the other hand, solar generators may be operated indoors. in unsure, always read the manuals first!