INTRODUCTION
Power outages can affect the way you work and live. They can make it difficult for you to survive especially if you depend on the main grid as your power supply and don’t have a backup.
That is why it’s important to have alternative power sources so you can continue with work and your daily activities.
If power outages are caused by natural disasters or other critical events it’s impossible to predict how long they’ll last. It may take weeks or even months. Making it difficult for you to use certain home appliances, work, cook, keep your home warm, or preserve food.
So, learn the best ways to go off-grid and survive without relying on the main power source.
Let’s get started!
GETTING STARTED
Solar generators are one of the best backup power sources you can depend on. They are eco-friendly and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Depending on the size you choose, you can use the generator for your lighting needs, operating appliances, cooking, heating your home, and carrying out various activities indoors.
You can also buy a portable solar generator and use it outdoors. For example, on your camping trips or outdoor survival situations.
You’ll easily have access to a power source, keep your electronic devices on, and provide for your lighting needs even when you are away from home.
The best thing about solar generators is that you can use them consistently without paying anything. You only buy the kit upfront and never worry about additional charges.
All you need is a generator, a solar panel, a battery system, an inverter, and a charge controller.
The charge controller protects and promotes the durability of the battery. So, you don’t have to worry too much about replacing it or buying new ones frequently.
Charge controllers simplify the process of effectively charging and discharging your battery.
Gas generators are another effective and dependable power source to invest in. They run on natural gas and not fuel sources like petroleum or coal.
When power outages caused by natural disasters and other critical events occur, you’ll have an energy source.
You can use gas generators to conduct various activities around the home, operate your electronic appliances, provide lighting, and do so much more.
The best thing about gas generators is that they are more efficient and cost-effective when compared to other generators. Especially ones running on fossil fuels. They can also generate a steady power supply you can depend on during emergencies. Ensuring you survive critical events and never worry about electricity when you need it.
Gas generators produce lower emissions and are a cleaner fuel source compared to other energy sources. They can be connected to the natural gas pipelines, are easy to install, and don’t require regular maintenance.
Easy DIY Power Plan Will Change Our World Forever
KNOW THE BEST OPTION FOR YOUR NEEDS
Solar generators and gas generators are both dependable and can help you survive emergencies. However, they each have certain drawbacks you should be on the lookout for.
So, before buying or deciding which option to go with, make sure you understand which one is best for your needs. Know the pros and cons of each and understand what you get from choosing one over the other.
Advantages of solar generators and why you would choose them over gas-powered ones.
• Renewable
Solar-powered generators use renewable energy and don’t exist in limited quantities. Unlike gas-powered ones or other generators running on fossil fuels. They are functional and remain that way as long as they can draw energy from the sun.
They generate energy from the sun and don’t create greenhouse gases.
Solar generators reduce your home’s carbon footprint and eliminate air pollution. As long as the generator gets plugged into an outlet for operation or is powered by solar panels.
Gas generators, on the other hand, use non-renewable energy, are explosive, and emit harmful fumes.
• Easy to maintain
Solar generators don’t require maintenance to continue running. You can operate them for a long period without thinking about servicing charges. You only pay once when buying the equipment needed to operate them and never worry about paying extra for maintenance.
Gas generators on the hand, have high maintenance costs. Plus, they can get disrupted during natural disasters. Such as earthquakes and floods.
Solar generators have no moving parts and you won’t have to pay extra. If repairs are required, they are minimal and you won’t pay much.
• Fuel costs
You don’t have to buy fuel to power your generator and keep it running. Simply recharge with electricity using free energy from the sun.
All you have to do is ensure you connect your machine to a solar energy system.
• Pricing
Using a solar generator with a solar panel or battery combination helps you save. You’ll have continued access to power for as long as the sun is out.
Your solar system won’t be damaged even during a natural disaster, unexpected and prolonged power outages, or any other catastrophic event.
• Reliability
Solar generators are dependable, durable, and can keep your appliances running in prolonged power outages.
You’ll have continued access to power and keep using your energy source even during unexpected outages. You’ll never worry about constant supervision, maintenance charges, fuel, or any other service costs.
Your solar system remains operational and ensures you have energy whenever you need it.
• Lightweight
Solar generators are light in weight compared to most gas-powered generators. They are easy to install and don’t take long to set up. You can either install them yourself or hire a professional.
Hiring someone else to handle the installation process is recommended because it will help you avoid mistakes. Plus, it’s a long-term investment.
The main disadvantages of solar-powered generators that you may be concerned with are high upfront costs, limited power supply, and, slow recharging.
The size of your generator determines whether or not it can power the entire house. So, if your generator is small, it can only be used for minimal tasks. Such as charging your electronic devices and operating small appliances around the house.
Advantages of Natural Gas generators
• Emissions
Gas generators release fewer toxins into the atmosphere when compared to diesel-operated ones or other generators running on fossil fuels.
The emissions of carbon dioxide and nitrogen are considerably lower. That is why gas generators have little or no odour.
• Cost
Gas generators are efficient and cost-effective. Compared to diesel-powered ones. You need more money up front to pay for a diesel-powered generator but natural gas maintains a low cost.
The generators are connected directly to the natural gas pipelines. Making them reliable and cost-efficient.
• Sound
Gas generators are quieter than diesel generators. Ensuring you never have to worry about noise when using it for lighting purposes and other electrical needs around your home.
You can also use available enclosures to reduce the sound. If you need to.
• Easy to install
They are easy to install and can be utilised in various areas. Such as rooftops and even restricted areas.
Many households rely on natural gas generators because they help you save money, are easy to install, produce lower emissions, and make it easy for you to respond to emergencies as they come.
Natural gas generators have many benefits but there are also certain disadvantages you should look out for. For example, safety, fuel supply, maintenance costs, and lifespan.
Natural gas is explosive and if the pipeline bursts, wears out, or cracks, there may be gas leaks which can lead to poisoning or fire.
When natural disasters occur, the pipelines may also get damaged. Leading to supply disruptions.
Gas-powered generators require more maintenance which can lead to more downtime and higher maintenance costs.
Natural gas is a non-renewable energy source.
Knowing and understanding the pros and cons of solar-powered generators and gas-operated ones helps you make informed purchasing decisions.
It makes it easy for you to determine which option is best for you so you can make the right investment.
Gas generators and solar-powered ones both have many benefits and several drawbacks. So, your choice depends on your needs, preferences, budget, and long-term goals.
If you are preparing for a natural disaster or know they are highly likely to occur in your area, then buying solar generators is more feasible. This is because gas generators can get damaged when natural disasters occur. Leading to disruptions in power supply.
A solar generator also reduces your home’s carbon footprint and eliminates air pollution.
Gas-powered ones release fewer emissions compared to diesel generators but can cause harmful pollutants.
Easy DIY Power Plan Will Change Our World Forever
USE THE BEST SOLAR GENERATORS
Generators are a great alternative power source and having the right one at your home will help you survive emergencies and ensure access to electricity whenever you need it.
All you need to do is make sure the generator you choose caters to your needs and helps you reach your goals.
If you want to provide lighting and keep small appliances operational, for example, you don’t have to pay large amounts of money. A small and cheap generator will do.
However, if you want to provide lighting for the entire house, use all your home appliances, and ensure you are always ready for natural disasters and other unexpected events, buy a solar generator that will provide for your needs. One that will give you access to power when you need it and ensure survival.
You may have to pay lots of money upfront. However, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Some of the best solar-powered generators and power stations to invest in are:
1. Jackery Solar Generator 1000, Explorer 1000, and 2X SolarSaga 100W with 3x110V/1000W AC Outlets, Solar Mobile Lithium Battery Pack FOR Outdoor RV/Van Camping, Emergency
This is the most powerful and noiseless generator that’s worth buying. It can provide for your lighting needs and power your TV, full-sized fridge, electric grill, appliances, heater, and so much more.
The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 has a massive 1002 Wh capacity and 1000 high running wattage. It features 3 standard pure sine wave AC outlets to provide extra capacity to protect and power more AC devices and appliances around the home.
The set features one Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station, 2 SolarSaga 100W solar panels, one SolarSaga Parallel Adapter, one AC Adapter, one Car Charger Cable, and a user manual.
The battery management system effectively guards the explorer 1000 with 6 protection layers. The ETFE material provides a higher light transmittance and a longer life cycle for the SolarSaga 100W.
You can use the generator indoors or outdoors for your camping trips, RV, road trips, and other adventures.
2. Goal Zero Yeti 1500X Portable Power Station, Emergency Power Station, 2000W Portable AC Inverter Generator, Outdoor Portable Generator, Portable Solar Generator for Solar Panels
The portable 2000W AC Inverter can power anything around your home and provide for your needs. You can use it to run lights, power your electronics, operate your kitchen appliances, power tools, and so much more.
It makes it easy for you to prepare for emergencies and power outages. All you have to do is ensure you keep your Yeti charged and ready to power up through any outage.
The 7 output ports let you power a range of devices including medical devices, blenders, power tools, computers, refrigerators, and so much more.
The Yeti 1500X is reliable, safe, and user-friendly. Backed up with multiple layers of protection such as temperature protection and voltage protection, it’s the best investment you can make.
It is built to last and survive different environments.
You can use the Yeti 1500X at home, work, or for outdoor survival.
Use the Yeti App 3.0 to control and optimise your Yeti 1500X power usage from anywhere.
Purchase a Goal Zero solar panel to recharge and increase charge efficiency by 30%.
3. EF ECOFLOW DELTA Max (2000) Solar Generator 2016Wh with 4 X 160W Solar Panel, 6 X 2400W (5000W Surge) AC Outlets, Portable Power Station for Home Backup, Outdoors Camping, RV, Emergency
The EF ECOFLOW DELTA Max (2000) is waterproof, durable, and can be used to power just about anything you want.
The 2400W output makes it easy for you to power up to 15 devices at once. Making it an ideal generator to invest in.
The 160W solar panel is waterproof. So, it can endure different weather conditions and is ideal for outdoor activities. Such as camping and outdoor survival.
The DELTA Max (2000) MPPT Controller guarantees full recharge with 4x160W solar panels within 5 hours.
It has multiple charging methods. So, you can charge with AC, solar, car, or the EcoFlow Smart Generator.
The kit includes one DELTA Max (2000) with all its accessories and 4x 160W Foldable Solar Panels with all its accessories.
4. BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC200P, 2000Wh LiFePO4 Battery Backup w/ 6 2000W AC Outlets (4800W Peak), Solar Generator for Outdoor Camping, RV Travel, Home Use
This portable power station can power 99% of home devices and provide for your electrical needs.
The LiFePO4 battery cells and premium BMS tech offer multiple protections to your AC200P. Making it one of the best power backup systems you can have at home.
The AC200P supports up to 700W solar and 500W AC input and can be fully recharged within 3 hours by solar and AC or dual AC charging.
5. Point Zero Energy Titan 1000 solar briefcase generator kit
The Titan Briefcase Kit is the best off-grid power system for any emergency. It is ideal for home usage, camping, and recreational vehicles.
It comes with everything you need to provide for your needs and can charge from 0% to full in 2 hours. Depending on weather conditions.
The kit includes one Titan solar generator with one 200-watt hour battery, one MC4 to SAE, one MC4 to Anderson adapter, five 200-watt briefcase solar panels, one AC charger, and two 25 ft. Mc4 extension wires.
6. EF ECOFLOW RIVER Pro Portable Power Station 720Wh
The RIVER Pro Power Station can power up a wide range of appliances including power tools and kitchen appliances.
It can be charged from 0 percent to 80 percent within an hour and reaches full charge in under 2 hours.
The RIVER Pro allows you to power up to 10 devices simultaneously, offers up to 720Wh power, and weighs 16,8 pounds. Making it a portable power station to travel with and use for your outdoor activities.
CONCLUSION
Every home must prepare for off-grid living because no one can predict the occurrence of disasters or prolonged power outages caused by unexpected events. Such as natural disasters and economic downturns.
So, make sure you understand the best alternative power sources you can invest in and start preparing today.
Weigh the pros and cons of using solar generators and gas generators before buying to ensure you make informed purchasing decisions.
Go with the option that caters to your needs and one you prefer.
Until Next Time