Whether you require a solar generator as a backup supply or wish to use it to cut down electrical expenses, knowing whether it is the right purchase can help a ton. Solar generators are not very new, and they have gained quite a bit of popularity over the years.
However, since they are expensive, most individuals debate whether investing in a solar generator is the right choice compared to a gas-powered generator. Today, we shall look closely at what solar generators are, what they do, and what positives and negatives you will face when deciding to invest in one.
What Is a Solar Powered Generator?
Solar generators are systems designed to run using energy from the sun or solar power. A solar generator commonly denotes a portable power hub that uses solar panels to enable the use of solar energy for electricity as opposed to fossil fuels like gas. Solar panels capture the sun’s energy which is then stored in a battery for later use. Solar generators can be used in homes, offices, boats, and RVs and brought along on camping trips. They are an excellent way to store backup energy for a power outage or strike.
How Does a Solar Generator Function?
A solar generator consists of four main parts:
- Solar charge controller
- Solar panels
- Battery
- Inverter
Solar panels soak in the energy from the sun’s rays which are stored as DC (direct current). This electricity passes through the charge controller, which regulates voltage and passes on the electricity for storage in the battery. Most solar generators have lithium-ion batteries.
When the energy stored is required, the inverter converts the stored charge into AC (alternating current) so that appliances can function. Most generators come with AC outlets, 12-volt carports, and USB ports to enable multiple devices to charge all at once.
Pros of Purchasing a Solar Generator
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1. Noiseless and Easy Maintenance
The best thing about purchasing a solar generator is its easy maintenance. They also run quietly in the background, with very few moving parts. Reduced friction and noise also mean the chances of your generator breaking down are very low. Therefore, the cost of maintaining a solar generator as compared to a gas generator is very low.
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2. Renewable and Clean Source of Energy
Solar generators run on renewable solar energy instead of fossil fuels. This makes the energy they produce to be considered clean as well and free from toxic emissions. You need not worry about the replenishment of fossil fuel supply. The best part is that there is zero negative impact on the environment which makes solar generators eco-friendly and very safe.
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3. Free Energy
You need to pay fuel money when you make use of gas-powered or diesel generators. However, solar energy is free to use. You only need to invest in a good solar generator system to reduce
fuel costs and save a good chunk of your money!
Cons of Purchasing a Solar Generator
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4. Slow Recharge
Solar generator batteries can only be charged during the daytime in bright sunlight. It also takes a few hours to charge up the battery completely. On average, solar panels with a power output of 100 W takes around fourteen hours to fill a 12-volt solar battery. Generators that generate power using fossil fuels can be replenished at any time, and there is no need to worry about the weather or time of day to generate power.
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5. High Initial Cost
Solar generators cost a lot more than gas or fuel generators. Gas generators cost around 1000 USD on average, whereas a solar generator costs double. The good news is that solar generator maintenance and running costs are quite low, which allows the buyer to cover the initial cost over the next few years.
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6. Restricted Power Supply
The battery size ultimately decides how much power your generator can store. Smaller or portable generators cannot power entire homes but are perfect for charging small appliances, laptops, and phones for a short duration. Gas generators do not have a power limit as long as there is an available fossil fuel supply.
What Are Solar Generators Commonly Used For?
Solar generators are perfect for running smaller appliances and are apt for charging devices like mobile phones and laptops. Most people use them as a source of backup power for an RV and also take one along for boating/camping trips. Portable solar generators are easy to carry, are noise-free, and can produce clean energy.
A portable generator can be used as backup power for your home for a few appliances but is not a suitable alternative for supporting a full home grid. To power an entire house, you will require a rooftop solar panel system and sufficient battery storage. The number of panels you need and the cost of installing a solar system in your home depends on your electrical needs and budget.
Endnote
A solar generator can be a huge investment, but it can help you enjoy essentially free electricity for years to come. The best part is that they are easy to maintain and are noise-free, so investing in either a portable or complete home-grid system is an excellent choice when compared to fossil fuel generators.
