If you live in a place where electricity is sometimes unreliable, you should consider getting backup for your home. The best solar generator can help you keep the lights on.
I was looking forward to moving from city life to a more secluded setting. Though I was enjoying the change, our area’s power was not very reliable. I decided to look for a backup for my home. My search led me to solar generators. I preferred them since they were more environmentally friendly and less noisy than other types. I took my time to research and compare different models before picking one. Here is what I learned about the best solar generators for home use.
Table of Contents
Best Solar Generators For Home Backup-Comparison Table
Model | Battery Capacity | Output capacity | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Goal Zero Yeti | 396Wh | 300 W | Check price here |
EF Ecoflow Delta Max 2000 | 2016Wh | 2400W | Check price here |
Jackery Explorer 1000 | 1002 Wh | 1000 W | Check price here |
Renogy Lycan 5000 | 4800Wh | 3500W | Check price here |
Geneverse solar generator | 1002Wh | 1000 W | Check price here |
Best Solar Generators For Home Backup review
Goal Zero Yeti– Best for people on a budget
Some people assume that solar generators must be too costly. On the contrary, the market has some affordable models that can fit your budget, such as Goal Zero Yeti. This can save you money while at the same time delivering quality performance. It is a user-friendly solar generator that has a small footprint.
Features
- Capacity: 396Wh
- Continuous power output: 300W
- Battery: 150-hour lead acid battery
- Weight: 29 pounds
Unlike other types of generators that pollute the environment, Goal zero yeti is ideal for home use since it does not produce any emissions. Anyone without experience can use this solar generator since it features a plug-and-play interface. Feel free to set it up in your home office or even garage.
The company behind this solar generator is famous for producing durable models, and it does not disappoint with this one. You can rely on Goal zero yeti for a long time since it is built to last. This solar generator is designed with a 150-watt-hour lead acid battery. It also features an inverter with different port options, such as a 12V output, AC outlet, and 2 USB ports.
What we liked
- It is easy to use
- The solar generator is built to last
- Compact design
- It does not produce emissions
What we didn’t like
- Not the best for charging numerous appliances
Verdict
Due to its low power output and capacity, this solar generator can only charge a few appliances for a short duration, such as tablets, cameras, and phones. However, this solar generator captivates many due to its affordable price and two-year warranty.
EF Ecoflow Delta Max 2000– Best for fast charging
If you need a solar generator that can power many devices simultaneously, do not overlook this model. Since EF Ecoflow has an output of 2400W, it can power up to 15 devices simultaneously. It also features an X-Boost mode to help power home appliances such as the dryer and fridge in case of a blackout.
Features
- Output: 2400W
- Capacity: 2016Wh
- Battery Chemistry: NCM
The solar generator also has a battery capacity of 2016 Wh. You can even expand this model’s backup capacity up to 6048 Wh using two Delt Max smart batteries. The AC input capacity of this solar generator is 1800W while its PV input is 8,000 Watt. You can charge it with solar, AC, car, or wall outlet for 1.8 hours. Also, the manufacturer equips it with a Lithium-Ion NCM battery.
This solar generator also has enough USB ports that you can use to charge devices such as phones and lanterns fast. It is a lightweight model that comes with sturdy handles. You will also not fail to notice the fans on one side of the solar generator, which keep its batteries cool.
What we liked
- Excellent power delivery
- It is portable and comes in a sleek design
- Minimal setup
- Fast charging
What we didn’t like
- High price
Verdict
Most customers are impressed with the power that this solar generator delivers. However, it is pricey.
Jackery Explorer 1000– Best value
Many people are drawn to this solar generator since it is reasonably priced and lightweight. This is a highly rated solar generator that has a max capacity of 1002 watt-hours. Since its maximum output is 1000, it is not the best for running high-wattage appliances. You can use it to power an electric grill for up to 50 minutes and a mini fridge for up to 17 hours.
Features
- Max capacity: 1002 watt-hours
- Weight: 22 lb
- Output power: 1000 W
This solar generator comes with at least three Pure Sine Wave AC outlets, 2 USB-A outlets, a 12V car outlet, and two USB ports. You can recharge it through your car’s 12 V outlet for 11.5 hours and through a solar panel for 6.5 hours. This solar generator can also gear up with at least two Jackery Solarsga solar panels.
Since it operates quietly, you don’t have to worry about disturbing neighbors when you invest in this solar generator. It is also designed to ensure that all your appliances and devices are protected as you charge them. This solar generator is also environmentally friendly since it uses solar energy and does not produce any emissions.
Many people that have invested in this solar generator reveal that it is easy to operate. It contains an LCD screen that displays charge data and the battery life status. This solar generator not only has compact dimensions but also comes with a molded handle that makes it easy to move.
What we liked
- It is lightweight
- Works silently
- Contains numerous output ports
What we didn’t like
- Long recharge time
Verdict
Jackery Explorer 1000 is famous for its solid power output. This solar generator can fulfill the power supply needs of different high-power electrical appliances without struggling.
Renogy Lycan 5000– Best overall
Keep your home online even when there is no electricity with the help of this solar generator. This model has an AC power of 3500 Watts and features a 4800Wh lithium-ion battery. Renogy Lycan 5000 can give you an uninterruptible power supply as soon as you hook it to the main switchboard in your home.
It charges fast within 1.3 hours when connecting to AC outlets and solar panels simultaneously. You can rely on this solar generator for even heavy-duty appliances in your home. Feel free to expand the system with some extra batteries if its capacity is not sufficient. It can easily be expanded up to 19.2kWh to cover most applications in case of a blackout.
Features
- Output power: 3500W
- Battery: 4800 Wh
- Solar charging: 2.5 hours
The manufacturer of this solar generator also designed it with pure sine wave technology which helps protect your appliances and electronics during use. Your appliances will always remain safe even if the voltage drops or rises.
This solar generator also comes with a lithium-ion battery that can withstand extreme temperatures. The battery also needs minimal maintenance to run smoothly. When it comes to the number of outlets, Renogy Lycan 500 is above average compared to other generators. It contains at least 4 USB ports, one 12V car outlet, and three standard 100V.
What we liked
- It ensures safe operation
- High capacity
- It is expandable
- Fast charging
What we didn’t like
- Fewer outlets
Verdict
This solar generator impresses many due to its high battery capacity. However, its weight makes it less portable.
Geneverse solar generator– Best for small households
Geneverse is famous for offering reliable power supply when there is no electricity. This solar generator has a capacity of 1002Wh. You can use this solar generator to power your household gadgets for up to 7 days on a single charge.
Features
- Capacity: 1002Wh
- Voltage: 110 Volts
This solar generator comes with at least multiple AC outlets and USB ports. The Geneverse solar generator is easy to move around and store since it features a portable and foldable design. It also comes with an adjustable kickstand and is designed with electric vehicle-grade battery cells.
Most users reveal that this solar generator is easy to set up and operate. The setup can take you only a few seconds. If you choose to purchase this solar generator, you will enjoy a five-year warranty.
What we liked
- Wide range compatibility
- Easy to set up
- Long term warranty
What we didn’t like
- It is not the best for a large family
Verdict
This reliable and versatile solar generator can give you power for days on a single charge. You can use it to charge things such as home appliances and communication devices in your home.
What to look out for when buying the best solar generator for home backup
If you dislike the challenges that come with power outages, you need to consider buying a solar generator. This can produce power that is equivalent to what other forms of generators produce, but it is better since it is more environmentally friendly. However, finding the best solar generator is not easy, especially when making a first-time purchase. You can find the best by considering the following factors.
- Capacity
The capacity of a solar generator can help you assess how much power it can store. This often ranges between 500 and 1000 Wh. You should choose one that has more watts since it can produce better electricity.
Besides the battery capacity, you should also focus on the output capacity of solar generators before choosing one. Pick one with a high output capacity since it can help you charge multiple devices simultaneously.
- Charging capability
Since solar generators do not hold a charge forever, you should choose one that charges easily and quickly. Choose a solar generator that not only charges by connecting it to a solar panel but also one that can be charged through other sources like a car’s 12V plug and wall outlet.
- Type of battery
While some solar generators are equipped with lithium-ion batteries, some come with lead-acid batteries. Consider solar generators that come with lithium-ion batteries since they are lightweight and have an extended lifespan.
- Brand
Comparing brands is also important before picking a solar generator. You can get a quality one from a reputable brand that has experience in making them. You should also check the kind of warranty that different brands offer for solar generators and compare their prices.
- Other features
You should also find out what other features a solar generator for home use has before paying for it. Choosing one with features such as outlets, numerous USB ports, and LED panels can help you get more value for your money. You can use the ports to charge different devices, while the LED panel can let you monitor your system in low light conditions.
Verdict: So, which is the best solar generator for home backup?
Though the solar generators for home backup on our list are all worth considering, Renogy Lycan 5000 stands out due to its high battery capacity and output capability. The fact that it also comes with an uninterrupted power supply and is fast charging also makes it unique.
Many customers also choose it since it is safe to operate. We, therefore, choose Renogy Lycan 5000 as the clear winner.
FAQs
How does a solar generator work?
The sun fuels this type of generator. It works with solar panels, which capture energy from the sun. The solar generator then extracts the energy from the solar panels and stores it.
Does weight matter when choosing a solar generator for home use?
Yes. Choosing a lightweight solar generator can give you an easy time when you want to move it. This factor is more important if you are looking for one to use on the go such as during camping.
What is the function of a control display on a solar generator?
This can give you access to its settings and display battery information.
How do solar generators differ from gas-powered generators?
Solar generators are pricier than gas-powered generators but they are worth it since they lighter and quieter. You will also not incur fuel costs when you invest in a solar generator since it is rechargeable. Maintenance of solar generators is easier since they don’t need air filter and oil changes.