Are you looking for a portable generator and an alternative power source for your refrigerator and other homer appliances? There exist several options of brands in the current market that are specifically abled to power your “preservative” buddy with solar as the main source of their power.
For about three months in a foreign country, I had been on a search for an alternative power source for my home appliances, having been posted on official duties away from home, to an area with very little electricity coverage. In my search, I was keen to find a solar-powered generator that could power nearly all our appliances, especially my refrigerator which has previously suffered an electric fault for not being compatible with the power supply then. The cost of repairing a broken refrigerator is higher than choosing the best means to power it to prevent a fault. That I learned by experience. So, I launched a search for a pocket-friendly, easy-to-use, efficient and refrigerator-safe solar generator for my new home and came up with quite an interesting list.
Table of Contents
The Best Solar Generator for Refrigerator
| Product Name | Voltage | Generator Weight | Product Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 1000 | 110 | 22 pounds | Check Product here |
| Goal Zero Yetti 1000 | 120 | 31.68 pounds | Check Product here |
| BLUETTI AC200MAX POWER STATION | 120 | 61.9 pounds | Check Product here |
| VTOMAN Jump 1000 | 110 | 37 pounds | Check product here |
| Anker PowerHouse 767 Portable | 100-240V (Dual-voltage) | 67.3 pounds | Check product here |
The 5 Best Solar Generator for refrigerator
After compiling a list of my 4 best solar generators for refrigerators, here is a detailed description of all the sampled ones for this purpose. We will look into the magnitude of their output, considering the good and bad that they each possess.
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 1000 – Best suited for camping with full size Refrigerators
If you’re looking for a low-budget option, the Jackery Portable Power Station is a great choice. It’s electric, portable, and uses 100% green energy.
This is known to be the most suitable portable solar-powered generator for your full-size refrigerator or mini-fridge. Its qualities make it perfect for outdoor camping activities as well as areas with limited electricity-powered access. With a combination of 2000W and 1002Wh, it gives power more than enough to run a minifridge and other selected home appliances. Additionally, this solar generator has the following properties;
Made with MPPT Technology capable of getting more photovoltaic (PV) power at over 30% from the Jackery Portable Power Station solar generator.
- It weighs just 22 lbs, making it a light and portable generator to use on the move.
- It is capable of serving you for a consistent 7 hours or 14 hours from an AC outlet or 12V carports respectively.
Overall, when considering the best Solar powered generator for your refrigerator, this generator should be top of your considerations.
Key features
- Charging time of up to 8 hours
- Comes with an AC adapter
- Has professional MTTP Technology
- Comes with a car charger cable
- Has a 3 standard PURE SINE WAVE AC outlet
- Dimensions — 13.1” x 9.2” x 11.1”
- Weight — 22 pounds
- Power output — 1000 W
- Battery capacity — Lithium-ion battery. Five hours of run time. Five hundred cycles to 80% capacity.
- Ports — 3x ac outlet, 1xUSB-A, 1xUSB-A quick charge, 2xUSB-C, 1x car power outlet
- Charging options — Recharge times: AC adapter (7 hours), 12V car adaptor (14 hours), 2x100W solar panels (8 hours)
- Input and outputs — Input: 8mm DC, 12-30V (300W); Output: AC – 3x110V (1000W); USB-A: 5V; Quick Charge: 5-6.5V; USB-C: 5V; DC Output: DC12V
The physical attributes of this hand-held generator give it a plus when it comes to its ease of handling. It has a handle right at the top of the generator, guaranteeing ease of access and portability by hand. It is also 13.1 x 9.2 x 11.1 inches in Length, Width, and Height in dimension.
Pros
- Portable — The handle, lighter weight, and ergonomic design make this a very portable option.
- Additional adapters
- Can be used as a power source for other appliances other than refrigerators.
- Operates quietly
- Durable build — The rugged construction and durable materials are long-lasting.
- Easy to use — We like portable generators that are easy for people to use, regardless if they have experience with a portable generator before. The ports, solar panel plugs, and adapters make this portable generator extremely functional.
- Versatile — The Jackery can power essential items needed for van life living but can also be used for heavier-duty items (ex: refrigerator).
Cons
- This solar generator does not have a backlight.
- Can’t link with an external battery — A Jackery cannot combine with another external battery or second Jackery generator to provide more than 1002Wh of power.
- Can’t use AC and DC together — The last con of using the Jackery is that you can’t charge the battery from both the AC, DC, and solar inputs simultaneously.
Verdict
For someone whose life involves a lot of camping or activities that have them, nomad, from one place to another with outdoor activities, this would be a good fit for their power needs, especially for the min-fridges. On Amazon, you can get this generator for $999.99 or for $1.398 WITH 1 SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel.
Goal Zero Yetti 1000 – Ideal for most Mobile usage
Second, on the list is Goal Zero Yetti 1000. It has a standard dimension of 15.25″L x 9.86″W x 10.23″H. At a weight of 31.68 pounds, it gives a fairly good amount of energy to power refrigerators and other smaller home appliances. This generator comes with a rolling cart that allows you to move it around your house or property for service during a power outage. It has a capacity of 1200Wh, capable of supplying your electricity needs for a relatively long period. Below are some of its key features
Key features
- Comes with a rolling cart
- Has an additional USB port, 12V Carport, and a 12V Power pole port
- Has 13 an AC Inverter
- Comes with a charging port
- Its charge time lasts at least 9 hours
- Purchased with an AGM lead acid battery
- Its capacity stands at 1200Wh.
Pros
- Powers multiple devices
- All the solar panels you need to power this solar generator are provided at purchase.
- It is powerful.
Cons
- It takes too long to recharge.
- You will need to assemble it before using it by yourself.
Verdict
As much as this solar generator will give you the required power to aid your refrigerator, its cons cut its pros almost by half. It’s heavier than most portable solar generators and its recharge time is relatively longer. On a budget, it would still fit its purpose. On Amazon, it is currently unavailable.
BLUETTI AC200MAX POWER STATION – High Budget Pick
If you don’t mind spending a pretty penny, the Bluetti is an excellent generator with an expandable battery capacity.
Key features
- Dimensions — 16.5” L x 11” W x 15.2” H
- Weight — 61.8 pounds
- Power output — 2200W output: 4xAC Pure Sine Wave, 2x12V DC 5521, 1x12V car output, 1x12V/30A Super DC car output, 2x 5V USB-A output, 1xPD 100W USB-C.
- Ports — Type-C port, 2x36W port, 2x15W Type-A port, two wireless charging surfaces, 4x12V ports, 2xDC 5521, 1x360W output
- Charging options — 500W block adapter (5 hours), a power station with two inputs (2 hours), the solar charger voltage range of 10-145V.
- Input and outputs — 1400W AC input (120V 500W Max AC Input, 10-145V 15A Max solar charger input, 11.5-14.5V car charger input, EV station charging input); 2200W output
Pros
- LiFePo4 — Very long battery life
- Durable build quality — The durable material, lack of plastic pieces, and port covers increase the lifespan of this generator.
- Battery expansion — up to 2 extra batteries
- Port covers — The port covers add to the durability and lifespan of the generator to prevent dirt and debris from getting inside of the generator.
- Bluetooth connectivity — The app works well with smartphone compatibility and the generator via Bluetooth connection that is reliable and fast.
Cons
- High fan noise — The loud fan noise during use and recharging can be distracting.
- Bulky adapter — The adapter is not only slow, but it is bulky and annoying to plug into outlets.
- Heavy and hard to move — The generator is nearly 62 pounds, which makes it hard to move, especially for solo travelers who may be in a confined space. There are no wheels, which limits the movement functionality.
- Hard-to-see display in daylight hours when outside — Despite this portable generator offering a functional 4-inch LCD touchscreen, glare on the screen can sometimes make it hard to see in direct sunlight.
Performance
The performance of the Bluetti is top-tier compared to other solar generators. This portable power station offers a Bluetooth connection, NEMA TT-30 socket, long battery life, and a small power adapter.
This portable generator can be used simultaneously with both the solar power and AC adapter to quicken the charge, featuring 900W of solar power and 500W AC adapter power. This means that users can quickly recharge their generator in just under 2 hours for an input of 1,400W.
The touchscreen is functional and easy to use for beginners who have never used a generator before. The portable power station is powered on by using one button, and an LCD touchscreen is used to control the settings.
Furthermore, if you are a few steps away from your portable power station, you can use the Bluetti app to update the software of the generator, control the unit, and monitor the power charge levels.
We think this portable power station is best for those who need a reliable and emergency backup for home power outages. We recommend this portable generator for those who need to power large items, need high power capacity for long periods of time, frequently go camping, or live in an area with power outages.
Design
The Bluetti generator is rugged, dark, and durable. The two handles on either side of the unit make it easy to move from place to place. Plus, the unit comes with a reusable bag for holding cables and charging items. The functionality makes this one of the best solar generators.
Furthermore, this unit has a color touch screen that provides crystal-clear information, increasing user efficiency. You can easily turn the on/off the generator by pressing the only button on one side, making it functional and quick. Then, the user can choose between the viewing settings.
The Bluetti has five AC outlets on the front panel, four 12V ports, two DC 5521 ports, USB ports, a Type-C port cable, two 36 W sockets, and two 15W Type-A sockets. It has an input of 1400W input (900W solar and 500W AC).
Verdict
When ranking this solar-powered generator among the best that can be used to power refrigerators, it is among the few that can power full-sized refrigerators with the least amount of effort and with very little charge times.
VTOMAN Jump 1000 – Ideal for Van Life
If you’re looking for a dependable generator, check out the VTOMAN. With an expandable add-on battery and 2000W surge boost, it’ll meet all of your van life needs.
From 4 plug sockets, this generator is made to power up to 4 devices. Additionally, this generator has an LCD that shows the Powersource. This indicates whether the unit is recharging from AC or solar power. It has an output section that indicates how much power is being drawn from the generator. The last of the sections is called the Level section which indicates how much power is left in the unit (generator). Some of the most notable features of this Generator are as shown;
Key features
- Dimensions — 14.2” L x 10.6” W x 11” H
- Battery capacity — 1408Wh, lithium-ion batteries maintained >80% of battery life after 3000 cycles. 55,000 hours of battery life featuring 12 ports.
- Ports — 12 ports: 2xDC5521 input ports (200W input power), 2x100W Type-C outputs, 4xUSB-A output ports, 2x USB ports
- Weight — 37 pounds
- Power output — 1000W output ports; can use V-surge technology to increase output to 2000W
- Charging options — 2x100W Type-C charging output,
- Input and outputs — 400W AC input, 2200W output; offers three input modes (solar panel, 180W AC input, and car input).
Performance
Features 12 ports to charge multiple items simultaneously, provides 2000W of power storage to work with refrigerators, and can run for up to 55,000 hours on a lithium battery.
This portable generator uses three charging methods to allow for super-fast recharging, including the wall plug, solar panels, and car charging port. Despite the solar charging times being slower than most solar generators, the combination of three charging methods can make the recharge time better than the competition.
The portable generator features five modes: Weak, Strobe, Medium, Strong, and SOS. This provides the user with customization regarding how to save battery power and the functionality of the machine.
The VTOMAN can power appliances, such as a CPAP machine for 45 hours, a car cooler for 23 hours, a toaster for 2 hours, and a coffee machine for 54 cups.
This portable generator is great for travelers and nomads who need to be prepared in case of an emergency. This is a reliable backup for those who need a second power source for a heavy-powered item.
Design
Features 12 ports on the front side, comes with an add-on battery, AC charger, car charging cable, power station, user guide, and 2xUSB cables. The front screen displays which power ports are currently in use, battery wattage, charge percent, and charge time.
The handle on the plastic and rugged case makes the portable generator easy to carry and functional for travel.
The VTOMAN has a Max DC of 200W and has two DC input connectors.
Pros
- 12 ports
- Jump-start a vehicle
- Extremely long battery life — 55,000 hours, LiFePO4 battery
- Expansion module (1500wH extra capacity)
- Three input modes
- 2-year warranty
- Cable case
Cons
- Some customers do not like the auto shut-off feature
- Large power adapter/power brick
- Only 120W of solar input
Anker PowerHouse 767 Portable Power Station – Best 2023 New Release
This newcomer to the market is becoming well-known among van lifers thanks to its performance and HyperFlash charging technology.
Key features
- Dimensions — 20.67” L x 9.84” W x 15.55” H
- Weight — 67.3 pounds
- Power output — 2300W output ports (3xAC ports, 3xUSB-C, 2xUSB-A, 2 car outlet)
- Battery capacity — EV LiFe PO4 batteries
- Ports — RV port, 4xAC ports, 3 USB ports, two carports, and 2 USB-A ports.
- Charging options — HyperFlash recharge from 0-80% in 1 hour.
- Input and outputs — 1000W solar input, 2300W output
Performance
Powers a 360W refrigerator for up to 21 hours in an emergency. It uses GaN Prime technology to help reduce device temperature, increase energy efficiency, and save power charge for 16 days of use. The HyperFlash technology can recharge the device up to 80% in 1.4 hours.
The UPS provides continuous power with a switchover time of less than one second for use with medical devices or necessary items. Power Saving mode and Smart AC outlets help conserve energy during use to prevent wasted power.
You’re able to run multiple devices simultaneously up to 3600W due to the safe SurgePad.
Users can run the device with the Anker App and Bluetooth connection to check the status of the battery, charging time, and power usage.
This portable generator works well for travelers who may need consistent and non-stop power for necessary items (ex: refrigerators, CPAP machines, etc.). Plus, the extremely fast recharging time means that people can use this device for multiple days in a row when needed.
Design
The Anker is made with durable material and a portable design featuring 12cm wheels and a retractable handle.
Pros
- HyperFlash technology 0-80% recharge in under one hour
- 10-year lifespan
- InfiniPower — long batteries, temperature control, impact-resistant design
- GaNPrime — more efficient charging and sustainable power
- Powers up to 10 devices simultaneously
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Heavy
- Difficult to transport
Buying a Solar generator for refrigerators
When on a quest to purchase a solar-powered generator for your refrigerator, it is important to consider all factors that make the type of generator you are looking for worth the task for which you intend to use it. That way, you will be purchasing a product that meets your budget, and needs and is efficient to use. Some of these factors include;
Battery Capacity
Be in the knowledge of the battery capacity of the generator you are purchasing. This will save you the emergency of insufficient energy to power your refrigerator after confidence in knowing that your fridge will be sorted and n time. You should consider the power rating of the generator. This is what determines the amount of energy that the generator will be emitting to aid your refrigerator.
Note however that power rating and the battery capacity may vary. If a generator has a lower power rating, with a high battery capacity.
Power
The power that a solar generator produces is by far the most important factor to be considered. To decide on what amount of power you need from your refrigerator, you have to largely consider the need for the refrigerators.
If your goal is to power a full-sized refrigerator for long periods because of an electric outage, you will certainly need a generator that generates enough or more power to do so. In the hierarchy of these generators, those that power mini-fridges cannot be compared to the generators that power full-sized refrigerators.
For instance, a solar panel can only run a refrigerator for a short span and a battery would also be needed for efficient performance. A 100-watt generator cannot consistently power a refrigerator.
As a customer, if the refrigerator being powered is a full-sized fridge, its charging may take close to a whole day. For this, you will need a power of up to 2000 watt-hours.
Size and Weight
As is looking for a portable solar-powered generator for a refrigerator the weight and size will ultimately define the portability of the device heavy generators discourage portability. Also, the size of a generator may sometimes determine the level of power that the generator can give. Some of these generators weigh over 100lbs. On the other hand, you might get solar generators as light at 5 lbs. Others weigh just 5lbs. for optimum satisfaction in using a generator that well fits your requirement, goes for the one that embraces your mobility.
If you have intentions of using the generator in outdoor activities such as camping, you should be choosy enough to select a refrigerator that fits your needs. A generator heavy at 100lbs definitely would not make sense for a mobile kind of consumer.
As a consumer who will maintain the location of the generator or fridge at home, you certainly will overlook the weight but the size will matter to provide the required energy or to store enough.
Before purchasing a generator for your fridge, it’s equally important to have an idea of where the generator will be placed. This is determined by the left space in your setup, r the possibility to have the refrigerator and the generator sharing a spot.
Inverter
It is key to consider the type of inverter the generator you are after contains. The inverters in the solar generator convert DC from the solar panels to AC. Currently, in the market, the best in the world of inverters you can buy is the pure sine wave inverter because it is the most efficient. It is also the most expensive.
If you can afford a generator with this inverter, we recommend you do, but if money is tight then you should look for a generator that has a different inverter.
Battery Type
Different battery types are used. Lead-acid and lithium-ion are the most standard types. Lithium is lightweight and often used to power tools, whereas lead-acid batteries are better for powering things like automobiles.
Charge Controller
Checking for a three-power point tracking (MPPT) is a commendable consideration when looking for the best solar generator.
What to look for
When purchasing an electrical appliance, especially equipment like generators, it is important to consider all the technical and functional controls as shown above.
Conclusion/Verdict
In choosing a generator for your refrigerators, consider the size of the refrigerators, the efficiency of the generator in question together with the price and the power you get. If you are a travel and camping junkie, then a solar-powered portable refrigerator is a must-have. From the list shared, the most efficient, pocket friendly, and suitable for most refrigerator needs would be the Jackery 1000 Portable Power Station solar generator and the BLUETTI AC200MAX Solar Generator.
FAQs
How long do solar generators last?
Depending on the brand and the quality of the generator, most of them last up to between 25 – 35 years while still serving. This is also relative to how good you are at taking care of the equipment.
Is a solar generator a good investment for a Refrigerator
At the time of purchase, you might get the understanding that it is costly. However, in the long run, it is an alternative to recurring electricity bill.