Since generators emit carbon monoxide, they require that you take critical safety measures, including running the device outside, at least 20 feet away from any structure. But in an age when we can charge our smartphones with a battery pack that fits inside a pants pocket, shouldn't there be a simpler way to restore power in the wake of a storm? Or, say, power a campsite without the constant hum of a gas-fueled generator? Such is the promise of portable power stations, also known as battery-powered inverter generators.
Essentially, they're oversized rechargeable batteries-about the size of a countertop microwave oven-that you plug into a typical 110-volt outlet to top off.
Things to know
They Can 't Deliver Nearly as Much Power as Gas Generators
As with their gasoline-fueled counterparts, portable power stations require a transfer switch should you wish to power things such as your furnace, overhead lights, or any thing else in your home that 's hardwired. But while a recreational inverter generator would probably keep the TV and a few lights on for 8 to 13 hours on one tank of gas, you'd see anywhere from 3 to 9 hours of power, under the same circumstances, with a portable powerstation. And you won't be able to run, for instance, your power-guzzling well pump.
They Take Awhile to Charge
Most of these models require hours of charging (typically overnight) to provide you with a full battery and max runtime.
So-assuming you fully charged the battery before a predicted weather event-a portable power station could give you hours of electricity to run a refrigerator or another essential appliance.
Charging With Solar Panels Can Be Iffy and Lengthy If you're dealing with an outage or you're otherwise off the grid, charging the power station via solar panels is your only option-and that's provided you have good sun and no obstructions.
They 're Not All That Portable
Portable power stations are about the size of an average microwave oven, but they're fairly heavy-most in our tests weigh more than 80 pounds.
That means you'll likely need an extra pair of hands to lift one into the trunk of your car. Some of the models come with wheels, but not all wheels are large in size, which makes rolling them across a lawn difficult.
If you have any questions about our products, feel free to call us at 02 888 10 333 and we will be happy to assist you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What size power station do I need?
- How do I connect a solar panel to my power station?
- What are the best power stations?
- Can I use a power station indoors?
- How long does a LiFePO4 battery in a power station last?
- Are portable power stations noisy?
- What devices can I run with a power station?
- How long does it take to recharge a power station?
- Can I use a power station while it's charging?
- Is an Outbax power station the same as an Outbax generator?
- What's the difference between Wh (Watt-hours) and W (Watts)?
- What is an Outbax portable power station, and what can I use it for in Australia?
- How do I select the correct size Outbax power station for my Aussie adventures?
- Can Outbax power stations be charged using solar panels, which are ideal for off-grid trips?
- What safety features are included in Outbax power stations for peace of mind?
- What makes Outbax power stations a good choice for Australian conditions?
