If you live in areas that have a high frequency of power outages due to weather conditions and natural disasters, you should find a proper alternative that will help you during and after a disaster.
The simplest way to deal with power outages is by implementing an off-grid approach. Yes, we are talking about solar energy, which is sustainable, and you will need an initial investment to rest assured along the way.
It is important to enter this link: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/balance-system-equipment-required-renewable-energy-systems to learn more about renewable energy systems you can implement.
Instead of implementing solar panels on your rooftop or in the backyard, you can find generators that will provide you peace of mind.
The main goal is to understand how they operate, which will help you determine the best one for your particular needs.
Let us start from the beginning.
What is a Solar Generator?
We have to start by saying that a solar generator is a compact box that features three essential parts: an inverter, charge controller, and batteries.
As a result, it will draw the sun’s energy by using solar panels and place it in the high-capacity battery to use afterward.
The inverter is another crucial aspect because it releases stored energy for numerous appliances and devices such as refrigerators, laptops, lights, and smartphones.
You should know that solar generators are the perfect source that will help you avoid petrol and diesel-powered options especially since they are challenging to maintain and require fossil fuels that are bad for the environment.
Instead, it would be best if you got an almost noiseless type that will not emit emissions that can damage your surroundings while providing you with a source of renewable energy.
How Does It Work?
The simplest way to answer this particular question is by understanding its components beforehand and their essential functions.
- Battery – We have mentioned above that a solar generator can store energy captured from panels and place it inside a battery for future usage. The most common options are lithium-ion batteries that will hold a charge without losing a percentage throughout a process. On the other hand, you can also find lead-acid options, but lithium-ion is the better option because they are more affordable and durable than other options. You should click here to learn more about different types you can find on the market
- Charge Controller – Another essential component of solar generators is charge controllers. Their primary purpose is to ensure the durability of the battery in the long run. You can find different features based on discharging models and charging based on the battery type you get. Generally, it is the brain of this particular generator type.
- Inverter – When it comes to the inverter, you should know that this particular component converts the direct current or DC power from a battery into alternating current or AC power that you can use for numerous devices in your household. In case you have DC items, you can bypass the inverter because you do not have to convert electricity.
As you can see from everything we have mentioned above, solar generators function based on the energy that comes from solar panels.
Generators can store energy in batteries and convert it into usable AC power. That way, you can use AC to power up different electronic devices and appliances.
These three components will provide you an effective way to prevent potential issues in case of a power outage.
Types of Solar Generators
- Backup – If you wish to prevent and deal with constant outages that happen to your area, you should find backup generators that are perfect solutions for your particular requirements. Generally, they will provide you a backup in a blackout since they feature high-wattage capacity; you can implement multiple batteries at once to get the most out of them. Remember that they can help power up the essential electronics and devices you are using, including computers, TVs, lights, and mid-range appliances. You will need approximately two days to charge it entirely depending on weather conditions, among others.
- Portable – Getting a portable generator means that you can enjoy the energy wherever you are, which is vital to remember. They are lightweight and compact, which means that you can move, store and pack them as you go. If you wish to enjoy outdoor events and camping, you should use this particular option. Even though they come with small or low wattage capacity, you will be able to power up small appliances, smartphones, laptops, and lights for camping.