Solar Powered Generator: A Reliable 2024 Outlook

A solar powered generator is one of the easiest off-grid power solutions. It provides power backup whenever you need especially during power outages.

If you are looking for fuel-free electricity storage for your house, then a solar generator must be in preference.

Before going through its nuts and bolts, let’s first have a quick understanding of its working.

How does a solar generator work?

The solar generator consists of the following components:

Now, how do they all work simultaneously?

Solar generator working

When sunlight falls on the surface of a solar module, it first converts the absorbed sunlight into electricity. The electricity thus generated is in the form of direct current(DC).

Then, this DC passes through the charge controller which regulates the voltage of the electricity into the battery, and stores this electricity in the battery for later usage.

An inverter is connected to the battery to supply electricity to the AC loads. Some common examples of AC loads are microwave ovens, refrigerator, bulbs, etc.

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Types of Solar Generators

There are primarily three types of solar generators that are used for residential purposes:

  • Portable generators
  • Standby generators

Portable generators

As the name suggests, it is portable and easy to carry whenever you go camping, tailgating, boating, etc. 

Portable solar generator

These generators work well when you need a small power backup source.

Also, they have a low wattage capacity, they can power devices such as smartphones, laptops, small appliances.

Portable generators do not work well with larger appliances such as a washing machine or a refrigerator. 

Standby/Backup solar generators

These generators are not portable. And, Usually have a high wattage capacity and are equipped with several batteries to maximize power storage, and will automatically get on once your power goes out. 

Standby Solar Generator
Image Source: VivintSolar

When the power is back on, your generator will detect the reinitiated power and automatically return to standby mode until it detects the next power outage. 

However, the setup which standby generators require is more complicated in comparison to portable ones.

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Pros & Cons of a Solar Powered Generator

AdvantagesDisadvantages
These are fuel-free.Recharging is slow.
Low Maintenance Cost.Higher upfront costs
It doesn’t make noise.Limited battery storage limits the power supply.
Solar Generator setup

FAQs

Should you buy Solar powered generator?

If you are tired of power outages and want a backup power option, then it will be one of the best ways to get rid of this situation.
Also, if you want a power backup for travel time, then the portable generator suits you best. However, you can also carry a Solar power bank if you have fewer devices to charge.

What is the lifespan of a solar generator?

The Solar panels attached usually last 20 to 25 years. Batteries should also be considered while considering the life span.
A much shorter lifespan can be expected from Lead-acid batteries in comparison to lithium batteries. 

What are the Different Types of Solar Generators?

Solar Generators are primarily of two main types:
1. Portable Solar Generators
2. Standby Solar Generators

Can a Solar Generator power a house?

Yes!
It works by connecting four components that are solar panels, a battery, a charge controller, and an inverter. You can buy them as complete all-in-one kits.
However, you also have the option of buying components like panels and batteries separately.
The solar generator you require will depend on your power consumption.

How loud is a solar generator?

The only sound you will hear from a solar generator is the buzzing sound of the inverter, which is minimal in comparison to the fuel generators.
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Final Note

Apart from home usage, a solar powered generator can also be a good initiative for property owners who are interested in backing up energy supplies from a renewable source.

The best option is to install a rooftop or ground-mounted solar system with a home battery attached.

If you have no power outage issues and want to reduce your electricity bills or earn through solar, then net metering can be the best option for you. But, a solar energy system without a battery usually cannot operate during a power outage. 

Since the solar generator does not make noise, so, in the case of home installations, you can keep them inside your house without any worries.

Before installing, you should test the rating of the batteries you are going to use. Also, it is recommended to test solar panels before installation.

After installation, you’ll always have peace in mind that you have an uninterrupted power supply.

We have this handy fusion reactor in the sky called the sun, you don't have to do anything, it just works. It shows up every day.-Elon Musk Share on X

If you want to know some of the best solar power generators for your usage along with their costs, then, stay connected with us, we will be discussing it based on user reviews in our upcoming blog posts.

Follow us @solar.funda on Instagram to get the latest updates on solar news and technologies. 

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