9 Tips To Choose The Best Solar Generators For Home

Most people use generators that are powered by diesel or gas. However, it’s nice to have a great backup option. Your usual generator could fail when you need it most. At that moment, the problem of how to generate power arises. So, what will you do?

This is where solar generators for home come into play. You must have seen and heard about them. However, you have to understand them better before choosing one. Have you been hoping to learn how to carefully select one? You wish to understand how a solar-powered type works and how long it can last? Please continue reading to widen your knowledge in this regard.

What are Solar Generators?

A solar generator is described as a device that delivers backup power when needed. Most times, they come into play when there’s a power outage. They deliver voltage using energy derived from the sun.

Generally, solar generators have four basic components. These include the battery, panels, the charge controller, and the inverter. They can run without fuel. So, there’s no need to worry about how to get diesel, propane, or gasoline. It requires low maintenance and they are not as expensive as fuel-powered generators.

What Are The Types Of Solar Generators?

Solar generators come in two main types. These include:

• Portable solar generators
• Solar backup generators

Portable Solar Generators

This type is usually lightweight. They are not hard to grab. Transportation to your desired area or place comes easy. This feature is great, in case there is a disaster of any kind.

Some of these portable solar generators have pull handles. This allows for easy movement. Also, it could come with attached hand grips.

The solar panel helps to recharge the battery. Most times, this generator can only power smaller appliances. If you are this for larger appliances, then you may experience some hindrance. This is because they have insufficient wattage capacity.

One advantage of this type is that it does not release carbon dioxide. It is less expensive and its maintenance is easy.

Solar Backup Generators

This generator can use multiple batteries. This makes it easy for it to power many appliances.

This type can be charged in less than 48 hours. However, the way it charges may vary. This depends on the size of the solar panel. Also, the amount of sunlight plays a vital role in charging it. When there is a grid off, this backup generator will be useful.

One con of this type is the weight. It is not lightweight like the portable solar generator. This makes them difficult to transport. Also, they are not as affordable as the other type.

However, this generator can be kept both indoors and outdoors. They are also smooth and convenient to use.

Do Solar Generators Work In Any Weather?

Solar-powered generators can work in any kind of weather. They can generate power when it is cloudy. That is the same way they deliver power using the Sunbelt.

This source remains one of the most reliable in any climate condition. During winter, be sure of generating power. In this period, solar panels have capacities to become more efficient and effective. However, they have lower output during the summer.

How Long Do Solar Powered Generators Last?

A solar-powered generator uses the sun as its source. This means you are getting a free source of energy. Its longevity depends on its solar panels. Also, their life cycle can determine how long your generator can last.

Normally, these panels have a long life. They are strong and well-built to ensure this. They can stay up to 25 years or more. Some even come with inbuilt panels and will last even longer. Due to these, this generator type is widely regarded as a reliable power source.

What Are The Tips For Choosing The Best Solar Generators For Home?

Solar generators are important if you have experienced power failure countless times. This serves as a strong backup, in case your regular generator disappoints. Here, you shall learn tips on how to choose the best solar-powered type for your use.

1. Purpose

Before choosing a solar generator, consider the purpose. What is your intent on selecting one? What do you intend to power? This will help you determine if you need it.

The reasons people choose solar-powered generators differ. Some choose it because they live in off-grid areas. There are cases of natural disasters that have affected power generation. People experiencing this may decide to get a solar generator.

For your home, carefully consider all the appliances you intend to power. Without a clear picture of the activities you want to use it for, you may be making a wrong move. Also, consider the wattage so you don’t end up going for units not suitable for you.

2. Size

Next is the size. It determines how effective a solar generator can work for you. The large-sized ones can work for hours. They can power smartphones, smaller appliances, and cordless tools for a very long time.

3. Solar Input

Many people do not consider this. The solar input refers to the panels. It is responsible for the conversion of solar into energy. Also, it determines how long the generator can work. The energy converted is then stored in your generator's battery.

Smaller panels have lesser wattage capabilities. This indicates reduced solar input. The higher wattage units are for powering bigger appliances. Once you understand this, you will know the unit to go for.

4. Portability

Consider its weight. Choose a solar generator that you can move easily. You may have to consider units from 20lbs to 35lbs.

Portability is subjective to different people. What you intend to power will affect the weight of the generator. In case there is a natural disaster, you need to be able to easily grab your generator. Even if it is for home use, ensure you can easily carry it.

5. Speed

In choosing a solar generator, consider how fast it can charge. The average amount of speed matters when charging. If your appliances take in power slowly, it may affect the usage. If you reside in an area where there's a grid-off, charging speed is also important.

6. Life Cycle

Many buyers fail to consider this. Don’t get a solar generator without checking its life cycle. Find out how long the unit will last. Mostly, a cycle uses the battery from 100% to 0%. It then goes back to 100%. Also, consider its shelf life.

6. Battery Capacity

Consider the strength of the battery. How durable is it? What can it hold? 1,000 watts to 3,000 watts is strong enough. Be clear about the battery’s capability before purchasing one. A 100% battery capacity is the surest solar generator to go for. To prolong the life of your battery, always store it in cool areas. This will also boost its capacity.

7. Durability

How long will the solar generator last? Different components make up this device. Be sure of the durability of all the parts. Understand what each can hold. Know how long it can last. For how many years can you use it? Check out the manufacturer's manual when selecting one.

8. Warranty

Many models may have a warranty. Be certain of the number of years. Also, choose one with lifetime technical support. With this, you can easily have access to the manufacturer.

With a warranty, the manufacturer guarantees a repair if the generator is faulty. However, if you do otherwise, you will take responsibility for any damage.

9. Eco-friendly Potential

Always choose environmentally-friendly solar generators. This means choosing one that operates quietly. Aside from this, they provide clean electricity and do not produce toxic fumes. This guarantees safety. As a result of this, it can be used both indoors and outdoors

Conclusion

By now, you must have gained much knowledge about solar generators for home. You should be able to select one without any doubt. They can serve you multiple functions. Also, they come in different types and also have different battery capacities. Ensure that you follow all the tips highlighted above. You will never get it wrong. Now you can go out there and choose the best!