Almost any small appliance, phone, laptop, or computer that plugs into an outlet and runs on electricity can run on a solar generator. Still, large appliances will quickly drain the battery. A significant drawback to a generator is the limited battery capacity and eventual power output. While a m/oderately sized portable solar generator may have the capacity to provide backup power for a full-sized refrigerator for a few hours, you won’t be able to use a solar generator to power an electric dryer or other heavy power load appliances. So some situations might call for a more conventional approach, like a dual fuel Duromax generator.
However, solar powered generators are excellent when used appropriately. Many solar generators will have various plugs and outputs, making it easy to charge a standard 120-volt appliance or use the 12-volt output. Several generators will also have handy USB ports, making them useful for quickly charging your mobile device or laptop.
A solar generator can be a lifesaver in an emergency that leads to a lack of power. Solar generators do not require traditional fuels like gasoline and can charge fully in about nine hours. With a single charge, you may be able to run a small mini-fridge on a solar generator for days or get several hundred charges for your mobile phone or laptop.
What Can You Power with a Solar Generator? Common Appliances and Wattage Requirements
When considering what you can run on a solar generator, it’s important to understand the power requirements of various appliances and devices. Solar generators come in different sizes and capacities, which determine what they can effectively power. Here are some common items you might want to run on a solar generator, along with their typical starting and running wattages:
| Appliance or Device | Starting Wattage | Running Wattage |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (Energy Star) | 1200W | 200W |
| Microwave Oven | 1000W | 1000W |
| Coffee Maker | 1000W | 1000W |
| Laptop Computer | 100W | 100W |
| 32″ LED TV | 50W | 50W |
| Box Fan | 200W | 100W |
| Smartphone Charger | 15W | 15W |
| LED Light Bulb (60W equivalent) | 10W | 10W |
| Sump Pump (1/2 HP) | 2000W | 1000W |
| Electric Grill | 1500W | 1500W |
As you can see, the starting wattage is often higher than the running wattage for many appliances. This is because devices like refrigerators and pumps require an extra surge of power to start up before settling into their normal running wattage. When choosing a solar generator, you’ll need to consider both the starting and running wattages of the items you plan to power.
For example, if you want to run a refrigerator, microwave, and a few lights during a power outage, you’ll need a solar generator with a continuous output of at least 1500W and a surge capacity of around 3000W to handle the starting wattages. A smaller 1000W generator might be sufficient for charging laptops, phones, and running some LED lights while camping.
It’s also important to note that the actual power consumption of appliances can vary based on factors like size, model, and efficiency. The wattages listed above are general estimates, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific power requirements of your devices before choosing a solar generator.
In addition to the generator’s output capacity, you’ll also need to consider the battery storage capacity, which determines how long you can run your appliances. A generator with a larger battery (measured in watt-hours) will be able to power your devices for a longer period before needing to be recharged.
By understanding the power needs of common appliances and matching them to the capabilities of different solar generators, you can find the right setup for your specific use case, whether it’s powering essential items during an emergency, running a campsite, or living off-grid.
Check out our articles about the pros and cons of a solar generator for more info.
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