Battery Backup Options

Jackery 3000 bundle

We've all faced power outages, occasionally caused by fire risks and at other times by storm damage. Natural disasters and rising demands are putting a strain on the grid. What steps can you take to ensure the lights stay on?

The New Energy Colorado non-profit has been conducting sessions in local communities to educate residents on ways to conserve energy at home. We have highlighted energy-efficient practices, home sealing and insulation, the benefits of getting a home energy audit to guide energy-saving upgrades, and solutions for power supply during outages. We also advocate for the installation of home solar systems or involvement in community solar programs to harness solar energy for part of your electricity needs. Most solar setups can include battery backup with larger 10-20 Kwh systems.

But what about those without solar or larger battery backup options? Fortunately, the market has been addressing this need, and the systems have come down in cost and improved in production. One of the first steps is technical: What size battery will run your refrigerator, and for how long?

For an example we use an energy efficient refrigerator/freezer and other basics.

• Refrigerator: 200 W × 8 hours = 1600 Wh & Surge ~ +1800 W/second (Refrigerators do not run constantly—especially if the doors are kept closed)

• Lights (2): 20 W × 5 hours = 200 Wh

• Router: 15 W × 8 hours = 120 Wh

Total energy needed = 1920 Wh

Add a buffer of 20–30% for surge,

inefficiency, and unplanned use.

Total if all running at once = 235 watts plus surge on refrigerator startup about 1800 W/second

Need peak power output for surge, even just seconds. Systems are rated for continuous and surge output.

You would look for 2.5 kWh to 3 kWh surge power output.

Generators use up to 15 watts while running and are about 80% efficient.

Battery that will provide that power for 8 hours (240 watts x 8 hours).

About 2000 Wh plus 20% or 2.3 kWh.

The output of a generator indicates the total number of watts available for powering appliances and lights.

Battery capacity determines the duration for which the wattage can be provided.

The advantage of all-in-one power centers, often referred to as solar generators, is their portability and ability to be stored in the garage until needed. They are clean and quiet, unlike noisy fossil fuel generators, and do not pose the same risks as fuel-burning options.

Depending on the charging time, it is possible to transport a system to a location with available power for recharging—typically about 2 hours, though this can vary. Many are compatible with 12-volt solar input, and some systems come with solar panels, usually providing 400 watts. Solar power would extend the run time, but not significantly with only 400 watts.

Armed with this knowledge, you can shop confidently. Use resources such as The Generator Insider for more information and reviews.