Solar generators are becoming increasingly popular thanks to improvements in solar panels. Unlike other generator models that run on gas and diesel, solar generators absorb natural solar energy and thereby create stored energy for you to use safely right in your own home.
In addition, solar generators are very light and easy to carry. Read the article below to answer the question “How does a solar generator work” to know more about the usage of this product.
Overview of solar generator
Below is an overview of what you need to know about solar generator equipment.
What is solar generator
A solar generator is a kind of generator that runs on solar energy. It uses solar panels and a portable power station to collect, store, and transmit solar energy.
Solar generators are frequently utilized for outdoor activities, camping, and emergency situations including power outages.
Unlike other types of generators that require diesel, propane, or gas, a solar generator consists of:
- Portable solar panels
- Portable power station (including rechargeable battery, solar charge controller, solar inverter)
There are many types of solar generators available on the market, so you can rest assured choosing the product that best suits your needs.
What is a solar generator?. David James/Wiki Solar generator
Solar generator vs. gas generator
The biggest difference in these two types of generators is the energy composition, one type uses natural solar energy, clean, environmentally friendly, limitless, which is converted into electricity via photovoltaic panels.
The other type runs on gasoline, they are loud and create more toxic fumes, not safe for you to use indoors. Gas generators are also heavier and require constant refueling and maintenance.
How does a solar generator work?
Solar generators use solar panels which are made from photovoltaic cells to capture photons from the sun.
When sunlight hits the solar cell, it is converted into direct current (DC), which is then routed to the charge controller, which regulates the amount of charge going into the battery. In turn, the battery bank stores energy when needed, which the inverter then releases through alternating current (AC) so that it can generate energy for you to use in your home appliances.
Solar generators use clean, renewable energy from the sun, so they are extremely safe and convenient for you to use in emergencies.
Solar generator components
To better understand how solar generators work, let’s learn about the parts of solar generators:
Battery
The battery has the function of storing energy from the sun so that users can use it. The most commonly used battery type today is lithium-ion.
There is another type of battery, the lead-acid battery, but it is less efficient and less durable, so the price is cheaper than lithium-ion batteries.
To ensure long-term safety and performance, we recommend using lithium-ion batteries.
Charge controller
The charge controller is also a very important part of the solar generator, whose main purpose is to protect and promote battery durability.
Charge controllers often have different features based on the type of battery and solar panel combination you use.
Inverter
This unit converts direct current (DC) from the battery into alternating current (AC) that can be used to power your household appliances.
Some devices will still use DC charging so there is no need to convert.
Benefits of solar generator
There are some advantages that solar generators bring to you compared to other products with similar functions:
- Low cost: The first advantage is cost savings, you only need to spend an initial amount to buy the product, then you do not need to spend more because the energy used by the machine is natural.
- Reliable and constant power source: Because of the well-designed backup system added in the solar array, solar generators can run during any weather conditions, such as storms or snowstorms.
- Easy to maintain: For other products, you will have to change the fuel source regularly but for solar generators, you only need to clean the machine regularly.
- No noise: Because of operating on solar energy, there is no engine noise, which makes solar generators used for many purposes such as in residential environments, schools, hospitals, and businesses.
- Environmentally friendly: Since it is run on a natural energy source, this is an excellent choice for anyone looking to reduce carbon footprint while still getting reliable energy.
Solar generator for home power outages. David James/Wiki Solar generator.
Solar generator types
The types of solar generators currently available on the market are:
Solar backup generator
This is a permanent solar generator in your home that draws energy directly from the sun. It will be automatically turned on when unexpected situations occur such as power outages and provide backup power for your family. This type of machine is suitable for families that need strong and continuous power. However, the disadvantage of this type of machine is that it is not convenient to move because it is often large and fixed with solar panels. Some popular options include: Goal Zero Yeti 3000X, Bluetti AC200P, EcoFlow Delta 1300.
Portable solar generator
This type of solar generator is smaller, easier to move and can be used in many different environments. They have built-in batteries to store solar energy when there is no sunlight, making them ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, picnics or long trips. Here are some options you can infer: Jackery Explorer 240, Rockpals 300W Portable Power Station.
Based on your demands, you can choose the most suitable solar generator to ensure a powerful and sustainable source for such a situation.
FAQs
Can a solar generator power a house?
Yes, a solar generator is strong enough to power a house.
How many hours will a solar generator run?
Solar-powered generators can run for eight to twelve hours on average, however this is only an approximation. Ultimately, it is contingent upon the capacity and device load of your generator. You can read more in this article about how long a solar generator lasts.
What can a 3000 watt solar generator run?
All save the heavy-duty power tools are rated under 1800 watts for household appliances. In other words, a solar generator with a capacity of 3000 watts may power the majority of your household or outdoor items.