8 Things to Consider When You Buy a Solar Powered Generator

I remember the first time I considered getting a solar powered generator. A storm had knocked out the power in my neighborhood for days, and I was scrambling to keep my phone charged and food fresh. That’s when I realized I needed a better backup plan — something reliable, eco-friendly, and efficient. The idea of harnessing the sun’s power sounded like the perfect solution.

But with so many options, choosing the right solar powered generator can feel overwhelming. Whether you need one for home use, camping trips, or your RV, there are some key things to remember to ensure you get the best one for your needs. Let's break it down together with these eight essential considerations.

8 Necessary Things you Should Know before Buying a Solar Powered Generator

1. Assessing Your Power Needs

First things first: what are you trying to power? A solar powered generator can’t handle everything. For example, a small solar-powered generator might do the trick if you’re only looking to keep your fridge and a few lights running during a blackout.

But if you’re looking to power an entire home, you’ll need something beefier, like a solar powered generator for the whole house.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• For Camping: A portable solar powered generator will easily handle charging phones, running small fans, or powering a portable fridge.
• For RVs: You’ll need a solar powered generator for RV that can run appliances like microwaves or air conditioners.
• For Home Backup: If your goal is to back up the essentials during a power outage, a solar powered home backup generator is what you’re after.

2. Location and Weather Conditions

You’re probably wondering: do solar powered generators work on cloudy days? Or at night? The short answer is, that they work on cloudy days but at reduced efficiency. They don’t work at night (no sun = no power), but many come with solar powered battery generators that store power for later.

The perfect example for solar powered battery generator is 2200-Watt HomePower 2 Plus Lithium-Ion Solar Generator (2060Wh Backup Battery + Solar Panels)

Pro Tip: If you live in an area with inconsistent sunshine, you might want to pair your solar generator with a solar and gas-powered generator. That way, you’ve got backup even on cloudy days or during extended storms.

3. Battery Capacity and Storage Options

One of the most important factors is how long your generator can run before needing a recharge. This is called battery capacity, and it’s super important to get right. Let’s say you’re using a solar powered generator for camping — you don’t want to run out of juice halfway through the trip.

Key things to consider:

• For short-term use: Look for a small solar powered generator with a battery capacity of at least 1000Wh. This should be enough for charging small devices and running basic appliances for a day or two. The perfect example is 1000-Watt HomePower ONE Lithium-Ion Solar Generators.
• For long-term use: You’ll want a large solar powered generator with at least 2000Wh or more. This is especially important if you’re looking to run larger appliances like a refrigerator or even an air conditioner. For Example: EcoFlow DELTA Solar Generator.

Fun Fact: Some models, like the solar powered generator patriot, are known for their excellent battery life and fast recharge times.

4. Portability vs. Stationary Setup

Not all generators are created equal when it comes to portability. A portable solar powered generator is great for on-the-go situations like camping or RVing. But if you’re looking for home backup, you might want to consider a standby solar powered generator, which is stationary and can handle larger loads.

• Portable Solar Powered Generators: Lightweight, easy to carry. Great for outdoor adventures.
• Standby Solar Powered Generators: More powerful, designed for home or business use. Not easy to move around but great for when you need reliable backup at home.

5. Charging Time and Solar Panel Efficiency

How fast can your solar powered generator recharge? It’s a big deal if you’re out camping or facing a long power outage. The efficiency of your solar panels plays a huge role here. Look for panels that have high efficiency (usually monocrystalline).

And here’s the kicker — charging time also depends on how much sunlight your panels get. If you want faster recharge times, opt for a solar powered backup generator that can handle multiple solar panels at once.

Quick Tip: If you’re using a solar powered generator for RV, consider mounting solar panels on your RV roof for continuous charging while you drive. Also, you can go with EcoFlow DELTA Max Portable Power Station + 6*100W Rigid Solar Panel + EcoFlow DELTA Max Smart Extra Battery

6. Types of Solar Panels and Compatibility

There are different types of solar panels — monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film. For most solar powered generators, monocrystalline panels are your best bet. They’re more efficient, last longer, and take up less space.

When buying, check that the panels you’re getting are compatible with your generator. Some solar powered portable generators come with their solar panel kits, which is super convenient.

7. Comparing Solar Generators with Traditional Inverters

You might be asking: “Is a solar powered generator better than a traditional inverter?” Well, it depends on what you’re using it for. 

• Solar Generators: These are powered by the sun, eco-friendly, and perfect for long-term savings. No gas or diesel is required.
• Traditional Inverters: Usually gas or diesel-powered. They’re great for continuous use but come with fuel costs and emissions.

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly solution that’s great for the environment, then a generator powered by solar is your best option. But if you’re in a pinch and need more power, a hybrid model (like a solar and gas-powered generator) could be a great alternative.

8. Safety Features and Durability

Last but not least, think about safety features and durability. You want a solar powered generator that has safety features like overcharge protection, temperature regulation, and waterproof casings.

Plus, let’s be real — these generators aren’t cheap, so make sure you’re investing in one that’s durable and built to last. Check out solar powered generator reviews to see what other users are saying about durability, especially if you’re planning to use it for home backup or RV trips.

Take Charge with the Right Solar Generator

Choosing the right solar powered generator can make all the difference when it comes to powering your home, RV, or next camping trip. From assessing your power needs to understanding battery capacity, portability, and charging times, each factor plays a crucial role in finding the perfect match. 

With the right considerations, you'll ensure that your generator fits your lifestyle and keeps you powered no matter where you are. Remember, whether you’re looking for a reliable home backup solution, an eco-friendly power source for your adventures, or something in between, a solar powered generator is a smart investment. 

Just keep these eight factors in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to choosing a generator that meets your needs, saves money, and helps the environment.