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A portable power station uses a rechargeable battery to power devices and appliances. These backup power sources can be a preferable power supply to a portable generator due to their compact structure and ability to run without fuel.
Also, unlike portable generators, a power station runs much quieter and doesn’t emit harmful fumes, meaning you can also run them inside.
They are handy if you live in an area prone to frequent power outages and only need a power source for a few items, such as running a refrigerator or charging your phone.
Portable power stations provide power when there is no access to grid power, such as on construction sites for power tools or on a camping trip when you want to power a few essential items.
If you’re considering buying one, you may wonder how long portable power stations last.
Throughout this article, we’ll look at how long a power station can run when you’re without power and how long it can last in terms of lifespan.
As with buying any power source, you’ll need to consider how you will use your mobile power station to ensure you have the suitable power capacity and buy the best portable power station for the job.
Before you buy, think about what you want to run on a portable power station, how many devices you want to power, and how long the portable power station would need to run.
You want to ensure you can get the right power wherever and whenever you need it, so firstly, you need to work out your power needs.
Look at the wattage requirements for the items you are running power to, and calculate the number of watt-hours your portable power station needs.
For example, if you only need to power a few LED lights, power a laptop, and need to keep your phone charged, you’ll find a portable power station with 200 watt-hours should do the trick.
Depending on what your power station’s supplying power to, you’ll want to consider the power output ports.
For example, do you need AC ports, 12v DC power, or USB ports? Make sure you check what connections you need to ensure you get the proper power outlet to power equipment and devices as required.
You can charge your power station at home from your mains power supply. Or, if you’re using a portable power station for camping or outdoor activities, you may want a power station which can be charged using a 12v vehicle power port.
There is also the option to look at portable solar panels so you can charge your power station via solar energy. If you go this route, you’ll need to ensure you get a power station with solar input.
Where you want to run a portable power station may determine the size you need. On the whole, a power station is relatively small, but they do vary in size.
Smaller portable power stations usually provide enough power to keep small devices such as phones and laptops charged.
Suppose you’re looking to power larger items, for example. If you need to power your fridge, you need to look at one with a power rating suitable to power refrigerators, usually bigger due to a larger battery.
Also remember that the rated wattage of a power station assumes that the equipment connected has a perfect power factor rating, which is very unlikely unless it is a heater or incandescent lamp. Most modern equipment has an efficiency rating of 0.9-0.95 therefore you will need to allow for this.
E.g – 1000W power station = 900-950W
Basically, even though the power station will be rated at 1000W, the wattage capable of being delivered is affected by the efficiency of the devices connected to it. Make sure you always choose a size that is approx 25-50% larger than your equipment rating to allow for this.
A portable power station can last for a long time if it is properly maintained. Most come with a reasonable warranty, sometimes up to 5 years!
Some of the batteries are rated for 3000 – 5000 recharge cycles.
Storing the unit in a warm dry place free from dust and moisture and bumps in transport will help give it a longer lifespan.
A portable power station can be a great way to keep your devices charged while on the go. However, it is essential to note that the amount of usage you can get out of a portable power station will vary depending on the size and capacity of the unit.
For example, a small portable power station may only be able to charge one or two devices at a time. At the same time, a larger unit may be able to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
As explained above, you need to look at the wattage of the items you need power for so you can determine the required watts-hours from your power station.
Yes, portable power stations are worth it! They are convenient to have around, especially if you live in an area where power outages are common. They can provide backup power for your home or office and are also great for camping and other outdoor activities.
You’ll find it extremely useful and great for peace of mind using a backup power source and selecting the right power station for your needs.
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Solent Power Ltd (Company Number 12622565) is a company registered in England and Wales. Our registered office is located at Unit 7 Mayflower Close, Chandler’s Ford Industrial Estate, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO53 4AR. VAT No. 363504018