What To Look For In A Solar Generator

Shopping for a solar generator can get confusing fast. There are dozens of brands out there, specs that don't always make sense, and prices that range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

Fortunately, choosing the right solar generator doesn't have to be complicated, especially with BatteryEVO on your side. Once you understand what features actually matter for your needs, the decision becomes much clearer.

Whether you're preparing for power outages at home, planning off-grid adventures, or setting up a backup power source for your RV, this guide walks you through exactly what to look for in a solar generator.

7 Things to Look for in a Solar Generator

Let's break down seven key factors to consider when looking for a solar generator in the US:

1. Understand your energy needs

First, you need to know two numbers:

1. How much power you use at a single time

2. How long you need it to last

The terminology for this is:

• Watts (W): How much power a device or appliance draws when it's running. A laptop might use 50W, for example, while your coffee maker could draw 1,000W.

• Watt-hours (Wh): Total energy consumed over time. That 50W laptop running for 10 hours uses 500Wh [50 x 10] of stored energy. Your 1,000W coffee maker running for 15 minutes uses 250Wh [1000 ÷ 4].

Common device power consumption:

• Laptop: 50-75W

• Phone charger: 5-20W

• LED lights: 30-60W

• Microwave: 1,000-1,500W

• Fridge: 150-200W

To calculate the minimum solar generator size (power output), add up the wattage for everything you'll run simultaneously. Then multiply the total watts by the number of hours you need power between charges.

Example

If you want to power your fridge (200W), laptop (60W), and lights (80W) for 8 hours, you need at least 2,720Wh (2.9kWh) of storage capacity.

2. Output power & battery storage capacity

Once you know your numbers, finding the right solar generator becomes easier. You need enough continuous power output to handle your simultaneous loads, and enough battery capacity to sustain it.

This is where you can't go wrong with a solar generator kit from BatteryEVO. Take the WALRUS Pacific Complete Solar Kit, for example. With 62kWh of reliable, maintenance-free energy storage capacity, you can power:

• A full-size fridge (200W) for 12+ days

• A 150W home office setup (laptop, monitor, desk lamp) for 413+ hours

• A coffee maker (1,000W for 15 minutes daily) for 248 days

The WALRUS PACIFIC combines a high-capacity LiFePO₄ battery, a powerful 12.5 kVA inverter, and smart energy controls in one system. Built to handle the most demanding loads, from HVAC systems to heavy-duty appliances, it gives you the freedom to live and work completely off the grid.

3. Battery type & lifespan

Not all solar batteries are the same. Most quality solar generators use LiFePO₄ (lithium iron phosphate) or lithium-ion batteries, with LiFePO₄ batteries being the gold standard. They're safer, longer-lasting (up to 8,000 cycles), and handle heat better than standard lithium-ion types.

When choosing solar generators, evaluate battery lifespans. Look at:

• Cycle life: How many full charges or discharge cycles before battery capacity drops.

• Depth of Discharge (DoD): Can you safely use 80-90% of capacity, or only 50%?

• Warranty cover: Does the manufacturer guarantee battery performance over time?

All of BatteryEVO's solar generators use LiFePO₄ batteries and come with a 10-year warranty, ensuring high-efficiency performance wherever and whenever it's needed.

4. Portability

When choosing a solar generator, size and weight matter just as much as power output.

A lightweight, portable solar generator or portable power station is ideal for your RV, but it won't have enough power to run an entire home. On the other hand, a larger home backup system can handle heavy appliances, but it's far too bulky to take on the road.

• Compact (300-1,200W): Easy to carry and store. Great for RV trips, camping, and outdoor events.

• Mid-weight (1,000-3,600W): The sweet spot for many users. Enough power for serious off-grid living, yet still manageable by one person.

• Heavy-duty (4,000+W): A commercial or residential backup power source. Often features wheels or handles for repositioning, but is generally designed to stay in one spot.

BatteryEVO's KOMODO RESIDENTIAL series has a massive 95kWh battery capacity with a 20kVA inverter. This model is purpose-built for serious office/home backup, not weekend camping trips.

5. Compatibility

A good solar generator isn't just about storage capacity and power output. It needs to have compatible charging ports to match how and where you use it. Before buying, check how the unit recharges, what devices it supports, and whether it works with your existing solar panels.

Most solar generators support multiple charging methods, such as:

• Solar panels and portable solar panels: Fantastic for off-grid use. Charging speed depends on sunlight availability and solar panel size.

• AC power outlet (wall): Usually, the fastest way to recharge a portable generator before trips.

• 12V car charger: Handy for road trips and RV use.

Charging speed varies wildly. Some solar generators recharge within a few hours via a wall outlet, while others take 8+ hours. For solar charging, expect 4-8 hours with the properly sized solar panels in good conditions.

Also, look for MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) solar power charging controllers. They optimize solar charging efficiency, squeezing more power from your panels in less-than-ideal conditions.

6. Durability

If you're investing in a solar generator, you want it to last. Focus on:

• Weather resistance: IP ratings tell you how well the unit handles dust and water. IP65 is good for outdoor use, while IP44 ratings are sufficient for indoor use.

• Build quality: Opt for sturdy casing, reinforced corners, and quality materials for long-lasting wear.

• Battery Management System (BMS): Make sure your solar generator has built-in protections against overcharging, short-circuiting, and overheating.

• Warranty: Look for units with a 5-10 year warranty for peace of mind and long-term return on investment (ROI).

With BatteryEVO from My Generator Plus, the WALRUS G3 PRO delivers an industrial-grade solar generator built for year-round reliability. With its advanced temperature protections, it charges and operates safely between -4°F and 131°F and is backed by a 10-year warranty and lifetime technical support as standard.

7. Noise level

One of the biggest advantages of solar generators over fuel-powered options? They're virtually silent.

For context, diesel generators produce around 50-100 decibels (dB). Solar generators? A mere 40-60 dB, similar to a refrigerator hum.

This makes solar generators ideal for:

• Residential areas

• Camping

• Overnight use

• Indoor emergency backup

What Is the Right Solar Generator Size for You?

Now that we've covered the basics of what to look for in a solar generator, here's a quick overview to help you make a more informed decision:

Check out BatteryEVO's entire solar generator range online today.

Power Up With BatteryEVO

The right solar generator gives you the freedom to live and work without limits.

BatteryEVO from My Generator Plus combines durability, simplicity, and cutting-edge design in one trusted system. Whether you’re preparing for outages, powering an RV, or building a sustainable off-grid setup, BatteryEVO offers flexible solar solutions that power your needs.

Contact us to discuss your needs today.

FAQs

What is a solar generator?

A solar generator is a portable power station that uses solar panels to charge a built-in battery. Solar energy is converted into electricity through outlets or ports for running appliances and devices.

Where can I use a solar generator?

Solar generators are versatile and can be used in a wide range of situations, including:

• Homes and businesses: Reliable backup power during outages.

• RVs and vans: On-the-go power for road trips and travel.

• Off-grid cabins: Sustainable energy for remote living.

How many watts is a good solar generator?

A good solar generator for typical home use has a power output of around 2,000W (2kW). This size can handle essential home appliances (fridges, TVs, lights, etc.) during outages.

References

https://udpwr.com/blogs/portable-power-station-knowledge/how-to-choose-the-right-solar-generator

https://enphase.com/portable-energy/guide-understanding-solar-power-generators

https://lionenergy.com/blogs/news/the-top-5-things-to-know-when-shopping-for-a-solar-generator

https://growattportable.com/blogs/news/are-solar-generators-worth-the-money

https://www.mygeneratorplus.com/collections/battery-evo