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.
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
24 Hours a Day / 7 Days a Week / 365 Days a Year
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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2920 Berry Hill Dr., Suite 300Nashville, TN 37204
This is the corporate office. No customer drop-ins, please.
Solar Battery vs. Generator: Which One is Best for My Home?
When the power goes out in your area, what are your options? Unless you have backup power at your home, it’s likely you’ll be sitting in the dark.
Fortunately, dozens of backup power options are available to choose from – including propane, diesel, natural gas-powered generators, and solar battery systems.
When you find the right solution for your home, you get the peace of mind that comes with knowing your household will keep running, even if the grid goes down.
Here at Sandbar Solar Electric, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners turn to solar and battery backup on the San Francisco Bay Area and Central Coast in California, so we know a thing or two about the value of a good backup system.
In this post, we’ll discuss the differences between solar battery backup systems and generators and help you understand which is right for you.
What is a Generator?
Generators and solar battery systems both provide backup power in the event of an outage. The way they do it, though, is very different.
Generators are the type of backup power systems most people are familiar with. Today, most generators run on liquid propane, natural gas, or diesel.
Freestanding generators sit outside the home and either turn on manually or include sensors that detect outages and turn the generator on automatically
Compared to solar battery backup for power outages, generators are more affordable on the front end.
Despite the low upfront cost, though, generators require regular maintenance and typically come with small recurring costs. Generators typically require weekly self-tests and need continual refueling to run during outages.
They produce sound when they are running as well as exhaust that is harmful to the environment.
When a generator is maintained regularly, it can last for 10 years.
Here are a few of the pros and cons of backup generator systems:
Pros:
- Generators are more affordable upfront than solar batteries. However, solar batteries save a household money over time and there are many rebates and incentives available that can lower the upfront cost.
- Generators are easy to connect to existing natural gas lines.
- Generators provide round-the-clock power, as long as they have an ample fuel supply.
- Generators are available in a variety of sizes, from small, portable units to whole-home systems.
Cons:
- Most generators are noisy to operate.
- Even high-end generators require annual and monthly maintenance.
- Generators require fuel to operate, which means they are not eco-friendly.
- Fuel left too long in a generator can go stale, causing problems with the equipment and additional repair costs.
- Generators create emissions during operation, creating an unpleasant smell and a high carbon footprint.
What is a Solar Battery Backup?
Solar battery backup systems run on electricity and are charged by a connection to the home’s solar energy system.
The batteries store excess energy produced by solar panels and save it for later use.
Some of the most common types of battery backups available today include:
Solar battery storage systems are popular because they are reliable.
When the grid goes down, a solar-powered battery backup system will draw stored energy from the batteries to power your home with no interruptions or downtime.
In addition to providing unparalleled reliability, battery backup systems are cleaner and quieter than generators and are also a more environmentally-friendly option.
Pros:
- Battery backup systems operate almost silently.
- When combined with solar, battery backup systems run entirely on renewable energy, which means you don’t have to spend money on dirty, expensive fuels.
- Battery backup systems increase your home’s daily solar consumption.
- Installing a battery backup system can increase the value of your home.
- Some systems qualify for state and federal tax credits in California.
- Battery backup systems offer low maintenance requirements and a long lifespan.
- These systems operate seamlessly during grid outages.
Which is Most Cost-Effective?
The exact amount you’ll pay for backup power depends on your home’s size and energy needs. According to HomeAdvisor, the typical price range for a generator system is 1,413-7,594, and installation costs vary and may add upwards of 10,000 or more to the total cost. Most of these generators are powerful enough to run a typical home during an outage.
By comparison, solar battery backup systems start at around 9,000, not including installation costs.
If you’re budgeting for a battery backup system, you can expect to spend between 25,000 and 30,000 including batteries, installation, and other equipment.
Fortunately, incentives and rebates can help you access a solar battery backup system.
Don’t let the upfront price deter you, though. Financing programs are available for qualifying applicants, and battery backup systems offer long-term savings that generators don’t.
When you purchase a generator, you need to buy fuel, perform monthly and annual maintenance, and replace the generator at the end of its lifespan.
On the other hand, battery backup systems pair with solar energy systems to create a renewable power source. Over time, this can save you thousands of dollars on your electric bill.
Installing a battery backup system may also allow you to access federal and state tax incentives or participate in the SGIP Equity Resiliency program – which we’ll discuss more below.
Solar Battery Backup vs. Gas Generator: Which Option is Best for Me?
Now that you have the background on each option, which is right for you? Here’s our recommendation:
Buy a Standby Backup Generator if…
A standby backup generator is an ideal solution if you don’t mind the noise and maintenance required, you only want a system that can provide emergency power, and you have no intention of installing solar panels in the future.
If your home has an existing natural gas line, installing a standby generator may be relatively straightforward.
Buy Solar Battery Backup if…
Solar battery backup is an excellent option for customers who want a backup system that can work with an existing or future solar energy system.
A battery system is right for those who prefer a quiet, low-maintenance, reliable, and environmentally-friendly solution.
Consider investing in a battery backup system if you want to keep the lights on and power essential home appliances during a grid outage and also reduce peak electricity charges.
Limited-Time Rebates for Battery Backup
Solar battery backup systems create energy resiliency, which is something the state of California is very invested in right now.
As a result, certain households who install a solar battery backup system may be eligible for a limited-time rebate under the existing equity resilience Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) allocation.
This program benefits those living in a fire zone who are also on a Medical Baseline Rate Program. Funds are going fast, but the program funds 80-100% of total project costs if you qualify.
There are also rebates available for those in a fire zone who are not on Medical Baseline. Additionally, officials expect one last rebate bucket for battery customers not in a fire zone or on Medical Baseline.
This rebate offer will cover about 10-15% of project costs.
Thinking of Getting a Solar Battery Backup? We Can Help!
Now is an excellent time to invest in a solar battery backup system for your home, and Sandbar Solar is here to help.
Our team has over 15 years of experience designing battery systems and can install new battery systems or retrofit existing solar panel systems for a battery backup.
We service homes and businesses across the San Francisco Bay Area and Central Coast.
About the Author
Jeremy has worked in the solar industry since 2006. He has a Bachelor’s Degree from UC Santa Cruz in Environmental Studies. Jeremy has spent most of his solar career in residential sales and Sales Management in both California and Hawaii. He was raised in Santa Cruz County and is passionate about helping local residents make the switch to clean and reliable renewable energy. Jeremy lives on the Westside with his wife and two boys and enjoys music, photography and hiking in his personal time.
Solar Panel Sizes: Which Size Do You Need for a Portable Solar Generator
Choosing the right solar panel size is a sure way to ensure that you have enough solar power to suffice all the electric needs. However, as a homeowner or someone new to solar, it can be pretty confusing to select the right size for your home or to know the amount of weight your roof can handle. Well, if you find yourself confused about what solar size to choose for your home, do not worry because you are at the right place in this post, we will walk you through all you need to know about selecting the right solar size for your home.
What Is The Best Size of Solar Panels?
The best solar panel size will depend on the purpose for which you are purchasing it. In terms of purpose, there are two types of solar panels:
What Is a Solar Cell?
Before we dive into each, we will like to explain what a solar cell is. So, when you look at a solar panel, you will realize that it is divided into a couple of squares, usually straight lines that meet to form a diamond shape at each end. Well, these squares are called Cells. Each solar cell or PhotoVoltaic Cell has a dimension of 6 inches by 6 inches. Each cell produces about half a volt of voltage (0.46 Volts).
Residential Solar Panels:
When it comes to residential solar panels (solar panels used for homes) the 60-cell solar panel is a preferred choice. Just as the name suggests, this solar panel comprises 60 solar cells and has a dimension of:
- 62 to 66 in height,
- 35 to 39 in width,
- A thickness ranging from 1.5 to 2, and
- Usually weighs about 40 pounds.
Since each cell produces a voltage of 0.46, a 60-cell solar panel can produce a total voltage of 27.6 volts or 30 volts, with a wattage ranging from 270 watts to 330 watts.
Commercial Solar Panels
For building larger than residential homes such as small businesses, multi-story buildings, and many others, a commercial solar panel will be ideal. Commercial solar panels consist of two main options:
a. 72-Cell Panel
Just as the name suggests, a 72-cell solar panel comprises 72 solar cells. These types of solar panels usually have the dimension:
- 75 to 78 in length
- 39 to 40 in width
- 1.4 to 1.7 in thickness
- Usually weighs around 50 lbs
A 72-cell is capable of producing a total voltage of 36-39 volts with a wattage of 350 to 400 watts. This means a 72-cell solar panel can charge a 24-volt battery efficiently. Not, a 60-cell solar panel cannot charge a 24-volt efficiently.
b. 96-Cell Panel
The last type of commercial solar panel is the 96-cell panel, and this type is uncommon on the market due to its large size; however, they are worth mentioning. This solar panel has a dimension of:
- 62 to65 in height
- 40- 43 in width
- 1.6 to 1.8 in depth
- Usually, weigh around 45-55 lbs
These solar panels have a voltage of 44.6 volts.
So, the best size is going to depend on your needs and the amount of voltage and rated output power of the solar panel.
How Big are Portable / RV solar panels?
If you are looking for a solar panel for your RV or camper, then you might want to look into a portable solar panel. RV solar panels usually vary in power production. However, most RV solar panels have a dimension of:
- 21 to 24 in height
- 14.6 to 15 in width
- 1.6 to 2.5 in thickness
- Weigh between 30 to 40 lbs
That being said, RV solar panels are capable of generating anywhere from 100 watts, to 150, 200, and 250 watts of power per panel, and some can be almost the same size as a residential panel.
How Much Do Solar Panels Weigh?
The weight of a solar panel greatly depends on the type of solar panel and the kind of materials used by the manufacturer to make the solar panel. However, on average, you should expect the following under-listed weights:
- 40 lbs for a 60-cell solar panel
- 50 lbs for a 72-cell solar panel
- 45-55 lbs for a 96-cell solar panel
- 30 to 40 lbs for an RV-solar cell
What Size of Solar Panel Do you Need For a Portable Solar Generator?
The size of the solar panel needed for a portable generator will greatly depend on the wattage of the solar generator and the light exposure it gets during the day, or the amount of light available at the place you wish to camp. However, since most small-sized solar generators have a power rating of around 500 watts, you will usually require 2 units of 250 watt portable solar panels or 5 units of 100 watt solar panels. Generally, you will divide the wattage of the generator by the wattage of the solar panel.
However, practically, the number of solar panels you need depends on three things:
- Your daily electricity consumption: This value can be gotten by getting a copy of your monthly utility bill. We recommend you get the last 6 months of utility bills and find the daily average electric consumption. Or you can ask the energy company.
- Your geographical location: This helps us identify the amount of peak sunlight you get per day and the best orientation of the solar panels. This is between 4 to 6 hours for most homes. However, do well to do your research per your state and city.
- The rated output power of the solar panel
To determine how many solar panels to get, you will use the formula:Number of solar cells= total daily house power usage/(peak sun hours per day X power rating of the solar cell)
So, if you use 29.5 kWh of power daily, your area has an average of 4 peak hours of sunlight and the rated outage of the solar panel is 330 watts, then you would need, (29.5X 1000)Wh/ (4×330 watts)= 22.34 330 watt panels to cover your electric needs. Therefore, you will need about 23 panels if your home uses 29.5kWh of power and your peak sunlight hours is 330 watt.
This formula stays the same even if you want to determine the number of solar panels you need for your RV, commercial property, or generator.