How do solar generators work?
As a homeowner with a solar power system, this question is vital since it determines whether you invest in one. Even when you have no idea, it isn’t hard to assume what it can do for your home.
However, it is better to get a full picture of solar generator science. Read on as our guide discusses how solar generators help.
What is a Solar Generator?
Solar generators are battery storage systems attached to solar panels. You can use them like traditional gas-powered generators. Instead of using fossil fuels, they store and release solar energy.
In most cases, solar-powered generators are not the best solution to power your entire property. They are more useful for powering boats, RVs, and tents during camping trips. These generators are also the best energy sources when unexpected power outages happen.
How Do Solar Generators Work?
Solar generators have two primary components: solar panels and a storage system. When studying solar generators, you are more likely to encounter the latter. It is what most solar companies market as a generator.
Place the solar panels in direct sunlight to store solar energy. Make sure they connect to the battery storage system. Whenever you need emergency power for appliances, you can pull energy from the setup.
Most solar generators nowadays are complete kits, meaning they include both components. However, you can always buy the panels and batteries separately.
Solar Generator Storage
Solar panel generators are incomplete without a battery. These are similar to the ones found in residential solar panel installations. They allow you to store power drawn from the panels for later use.
The primary difference is the solar generator battery size. It is usually smaller, increasing portability. However, the battery has built-in outlets, allowing you to plug in electronics.
Most home solar batteries use lithium-ion technology. Meanwhile, solar power generators can also use lead-acid batteries. You can combine both technologies with other batteries through chaining.
Solar Generator Panels
Solar generators use different solar panels than their residential counterparts. These panels are often smaller in both size and wattage. They are more portable, making them easy to reposition.
Benefits of Solar Energy Generators
Now that you know how solar generator technology works, it is time to study its advantages. Here are some common benefits of residential generators like Bluetti EP500:
Free Renewable Energy
When your solar generator gets power, you are using the sun’s energy. You do this instead of paying for fossil fuels. It continues throughout its 25 to 30 years of operational lifespan.
Low Maintenance Costs
Solar generators lack moving parts, unlike their fossil fuel counterparts. They don’t rely on liquid fuel, lowering your risk of paying for repairs. As the years pass, you will save more money and time.
Clean and Quiet Operation
Choosing a solar generator over a gas-powered machine has environmental advantages. You need not worry about contributing to air pollution or adding more CO2 to the atmosphere. With your generator, you help prevent global climate change.
Another annoying drawback of gas generators is their loud operation. Meanwhile, choosing solar means never dealing with noise pollution.
How to Buy the Best Solar Generators
Like any generator, ensure your portable solar generator system satisfies your energy needs. Here are several metrics to help your search:
Running Watts
The rated-watts measurement is the amount of energy the generator can make constantly. Think about the devices you want to power with the solar battery. After that, tally their wattage requirements to guide your choice.
It is easy to find your electrical device requirements. Check the labels since they often contain relevant information. Regardless, ensure your generator’s running wattage is higher than your total.
Watt-Hours
Your generator capacity ensures your devices receive enough power for a longer duration. The measurement determines the amount of continuous power the generator can give for 60 minutes using a full charge. Once you calculate this figure, you can estimate the amount of power it delivers before recharging.
For example, 600-Wh generators can power a single 50-watt light fixture for 12 hours. These calculations are estimates, meaning you’re unlikely to use the entire capacity of the generator. Sometimes, external factors like temperature can decrease the duration.
Peak Power
The starting watts measurement determines the power your generator can give before settling into its running output. It must be higher than your running watts.
Peak power is necessary since the extra power surge can start electric motors. Some devices like fans or mini-refrigerators benefit from it.
When you need to power these machines, determine their starting wattage. Ensure your generator has enough peak power output to accommodate them.
Recharge Time
This factor determines the length of time necessary to return an exhausted battery to its full charge. Check your generator manual to discover the estimated charging time. It often comes from the generator’s charging speed and the solar panels’ power input.
Your chosen generator’s estimated recharge time uses the maximum solar power input. Some factors can lengthen the duration, such as cloudy weather.
For example, your generator recharges within 10 hours on a sunny day. When it becomes cloudy, the duration can increase to a few days instead. Think about this fact when you’re considering your household capacity and needs.
When you want to rely on the generator for your lights, portable TV, and mobile devices, ensure its capacity and charge rate are optimal. Most models can supply power while recharging. The charging duration is longer and might not keep up with your consumption.
Learn More Facts About Solar Energy Now
We hope our guide answered your question, “how do solar generators work?” Use these when deciding whether this machine is a worthy investment.
Learning about solar generators is only half the battle. Study what to look for in residential solar power systems. It allows you to transition to clean, renewable, and free energy.
Are you looking for more informative guides? If so, please consider reading our other posts and learn more valuable tips today.