When your power goes out, a reliable backup power source can keep essential household appliances running. Traditional gas-powered generators have long been the go-to solution, but battery-powered alternatives are gaining popularity for their convenience and eco-friendliness.
In this article and accompanying video, This Old House host Kevin O’Connor and master electrician Scott Caron review a portable battery generator and discuss the benefits of gasoline-free backup generators.
How Do Battery-Powered Generators Work?
A battery-powered generator, also known as a portable power station, is a clean and quiet alternative to the conventional gas generator. These devices store electrical energy in rechargeable batteries, offering a reliable power source during outages or for off-grid applications.
Battery-powered generators store electricity in high-capacity lithium-ion batteries. This stored energy is converted into usable AC power through an inverter when needed. You can recharge a portable generator using any number of sources, such as car chargers, solar power, standard wall outlets, and wind energy.
Unlike gas generators, battery-powered units produce no emissions and are safe to use indoors, making them ideal for apartments, basements, campers and trailers, garages, offices, tents, and more.
What Are the Advantages of Battery-Powered Generators?
Compared to traditional gas-powered generators, battery-operated models have the following advantages:
- Environmentally friendly with zero emissions
- Instant power without the need for starting or warm-up
- No fuel storage or maintenance required
- Safe for indoor use
- Silent operation
- Versatile charging options, including renewable energy sources
What Are the Key Features of Battery-Powered Generators?
When considering a battery-powered generator, we recommend understanding its capabilities and features to ensure it meets your needs. We’ll discuss power and design features below.
Power Output and Capacity
The generator discussed in the video above has a maximum output of 1.8 kilowatts and a continuous output of about 1.8 kilowatts. This capacity is enough to run essential appliances like refrigerators during short power outages.
When evaluating different models, compare their battery capacity, continuous power output, estimated runtime per appliance or load, and peak power output.
Outlet Options
Modern battery generators offer a variety of outlet types to accommodate different devices.
The model in the video has two 120-volt AC outlets, two 5-volt USB ports for charging phones and small electronics, and two 12-volt DC car lighter outlets.
Portability and Design
One of the main advantages of battery-powered generators is their portability. The unit features wheels for easy transportation, making it convenient to move between rooms or outdoors.
When choosing a battery generator, we recommend taking stock of its outer casing’s durability, whether it has wheels or handles for transport, whether it is weather resistant, and its weight and dimensions.
Charging Options for Battery-Powered Generators
To make sure your battery generator is always ready when you need it, you need to understand the different ways you can charge it.
Trickle Charging
The generator can be trickle-charged from any standard wall outlet. This method allows for slow, continuous charging that keeps the battery full without overcharging. It’s the best option for when you need power on short notice.
Solar Charging
Many battery-powered generators, including the one featured, have solar charging capabilities. The model comes with optional 30-watt solar panels, which you can place in a sunny spot outside.
In addition to being a greener solution, solar charging reduces reliance on the power grid, off-grid mobility, and extended runtime during prolonged power outages.
Other Charging Methods
Depending on the model, battery generators may also support additional charging options. Some standard methods are car charging (12V DC outlet), fast charging via a specialized AC adapter, and wind turbine charging.
What Are the Practical Applications of Battery-Powered Generators?
Battery-powered generators offer solutions for many scenarios beyond just emergency backup power. Here are just a few.
Home Office Backup
With the rise of remote work, having a functioning home office during power outages is increasingly important. A battery generator can keep your essential equipment running, including computers and laptops, lamps, phones, routers, and modems.
Outdoor and Recreational Use
Battery generators’ portability makes them excellent outdoor and adventure tools. We recommend taking a generator with you on camping trips, to outdoor events and gatherings, and keeping one in your RV or van.
Multi-Family and Apartment Living
As Caron points out, battery-powered generators are excellent for use in multi-family buildings. Specifically, they’re easy to transport and are safe for indoor use, they don’t produce any noxious emissions or odors, and their quite operation won’t disturb the neighbors.
How Do Battery Generators Compare to Gas Generators?
While battery-powered generators have many benefits, it’s important to understand how they compare to traditional gas generators.
Power Output and Runtime
Gas generators typically offer higher power output and longer runtime, making them better for powering larger appliances or entire homes. Battery generators, while limited in power comparatively, are improving rapidly and can handle most essential needs in a pinch.
Cost Considerations
The initial cost of battery generators is often higher than gas models. The unit, along with its solar panels, totals about $1,300. You can also get different models from various home improvement, hardware, and outdoor retail stores for anywhere between $400 and $4,000.*
However, battery generators may prove more cost-effective in the long run due to their $0 fuel costs, minimal maintenance requirements, potential solar-driven energy savings, and—with adequate care—a longer useful life.
*Cost information in this article sourced from Angi.
Environmental Impact
Battery-powered generators have a clear advantage in terms of environmental impact. Here are just a few upsides:
- No risk of fuel spills or contamination
- Potential for renewable energy integration
- Quieter operation, reducing noise pollution
- Zero emissions during operation
Generator Maintenance and Care
Good generator upkeep ensures reliable on-the-go power in an emergency. Preparedness measures include regularly monitoring, charging, inspecting, and testing your generator’s battery.
Regular Charging
Have your generator ready to go at a moment’s notice. To do this, avoid completely draining the battery before charging it again, keep a regular charging schedule—even if you’re not using it regularly, and use the “trickle charge” feature if you’re storing it long term.
Battery Health
The battery is the heart of your generator, so monitoring and maintaining it is crucial. You can keep your generator battery performing its best by avoiding extreme temperatures, following manufacturer guidelines, performing periodic charge cycles to maintain battery capacity, and storing the generator in a cool, dry place.
System Checks
Regularly inspect your battery generator to make sure all components are functioning correctly. Specifically, test all outlets and ports, check for any physical damage or wear, update firmware if applicable, and clean the unit, especially ventilation areas, to prevent overheating.
Emergency Preparedness
In anticipation of potential outages, make sure your battery generator is well-maintained and ready for immediate use. This includes educating all household members on safe and efficient operation procedures, keeping all included accessories, such as solar panels and adapters, in a convenient location, and regularly testing the generator under load conditions.
Integrated Technology Features
Many modern battery-powered generators have smart technology features that enhance usability and monitoring. Some of these features include:
- Intelligent energy management: Some advanced generators offer intelligent energy management systems that optimize power distribution by automatically prioritizing essential appliances and extending battery life.
- Mobile app integration: Having control and monitoring capabilities directly on a mobile app can provide real-time insights into the generator’s performance, battery status, and power usage.
- Remote updates: Firmware updates via Wi-Fi can keep your generator operating with the latest improvements and security features, providing peace of mind and up-to-date functionality.
