What Features Should I Consider When Choosing a Solar Generator?

There are many solar generators on the market, so it can be difficult to distinguish one generator from another. Sorting through the available best solar powered generators is tricky, but knowing which features to look for can help you choose the best solar powered generator for your needs.

Maintenance and Durability

Solar generator maintenance is fairly easy, particulary compared to gas generator maintenance. Mostly it’s just cleaning the solar panels and checking cables for corrosion.

How Long Do Solar Generators Last? Solar panels last upwards of 30 years or more. However, like any generator, finding a quality device can help make your purchase a wise investment. If you plan on using your generator outdoors camping or in an RV, be sure to find a device that is made with a durable metal case or heavy-duty plastic. These generators will be more durable than generators made with flimsy plastic components.

Charging

Having a solar generator able and ready to produce usable power in an emergency is vital. This portable power station can be a lifesaver if there is an emergency. Before selecting a generator, do your research about the average charging time. Depending on the individual generator and the internal battery, charging times vary significantly between manufacturers and models.

Pay close attention to the type of battery used. Most modern solar powered generators are made with lithium ion batteries, but there is some variation among even within that group. For instance, lithium iron phosphate batteries can be recharged a larger number of times than lithium-ion nickel manganese cobalt, but the latter can hold greater charge for their size.

Size

The physical size of your solar generator will largely determine how portable the unit is. If you plan on using your generator for RV or camping trips, it may be more important to have a small and lightweight portable solar generator, complete with portable solar panels. A bulkier, heavier generator may be more acceptable for those who plan to use a generator to power their basic necessities at home in an emergency.

Be sure to check our pros and cons of a solar generator article for more info.