Solar Power Generator and Gas Generator - The Perfect Combination - Charging Solar Gen with Gas Gen

Summary

This video explores the advantages of using both solar-powered portable power stations and gas generators during power outages, explaining how they complement each other. The host demonstrates charging a portable power station with a gas generator, offers tips for choosing the right gas generator, and shares personal experiences with various models. Key points include the benefits of solar power (quiet, no fuel needed) and the role of gas generators in emergencies when solar isn't an option. Practical advice is provided for finding the best generator based on wattage needs and features like dual fuel capability.

Takeaways

• 🔋 Solar and gas generators work well together in power outages.
• ⚡ Demonstration of charging a portable power station with a gas generator.
• 🔧 The Champion Dual Fuel 3400 Y generator is used in the demo, though discontinued, and preferred alternatives are available.
• 🌞 Solar power is quieter, has no fuel costs or smells, but fuel might not be available for gas generators in certain scenarios.
• 🏖️ The user prefers gas generators for extended use in summer, e.g., running a 5000 BTU window air conditioner for 14 hours on propane.
• ❄️ In winter, the gas generator is used to power a Vornado heater for 14 hours on one tank, compared to 2 hours with a solar-powered portable station.
• ⚙️ Gas generators are ideal for charging portable power stations when solar panels can't be used due to bad weather.
• 🌀 During power outages, portable power stations can extend generator fuel life and provide more options when fuel is scarce.
• ⏳ In the test, the gas generator charged the Delta 1300 portable power station from 50% to 100% in 45 minutes.
• 🔑 Tips for buying a gas generator: check compatibility with your power station, consider inverter generators, use clean sine wave, and prioritize dual fuel options.

Q & A

What are the advantages of having both a solar-powered portable power station and a gas generator?

The combination of both offers flexibility during power outages. A solar power station is quiet, doesn’t require fuel, and can be used indoors. A gas generator provides reliable power when solar energy isn't available, such as during cloudy weather or storms.

Why does the speaker prefer solar power over gas generators?

The speaker prefers solar power because it’s quiet, can be run indoors, doesn't require fuel, and avoids the mess, smell, or expense of fuel. Additionally, fuel may not always be available for gas generators during extended outages.

Why does the speaker still use a gas generator despite preferring solar power?

The gas generator is used because it provides a reliable backup during situations when solar panels can’t charge the portable power station, such as during storms or extended cloudy periods. It also allows for running higher-demand appliances like air conditioners and heaters.

How long can the speaker run a 5000 BTU air conditioner using the Champion generator and the Delta portable power station?

Using the Champion gas generator, the speaker can run the air conditioner for 14 hours on a single tank of propane. The Delta portable power station, on the other hand, can only run it for around 2-4 hours, depending on available solar power.

What is the main reason the speaker bought a gas generator?

The main reason for purchasing the gas generator was to charge the portable power station when solar panels are unavailable, such as during storms or power outages where fuel might be scarce.

What does the speaker suggest checking if you are in the market for a gas generator that can charge a portable power station?

The speaker suggests contacting the portable power station manufacturer to ensure that a gas generator can be used for charging and to confirm the wattage requirements. Additionally, they recommend considering an inverter generator with a clean sine wave, electric start, and dual-fuel options.

What benefits does an inverter generator provide compared to a traditional generator?

An inverter generator is more efficient, lightweight, and offers cleaner power, which is essential for charging sensitive electronics like a portable power station.

What does the phrase 'two is one and one is none' mean in the context of this video?

This phrase suggests that having just one power source is risky. It's better to have two options (solar power and a gas generator) for redundancy, so if one fails, you still have a backup.

How long did it take to fully charge the Delta 1300 portable power station using the Champion generator?

It took 45 minutes to fully charge the Delta 1300 portable power station from 50% to 100% using the Champion generator.

What should be considered when choosing a portable power station for home use?

When choosing a portable power station, it's important to know your wattage demand and the battery size you need. This ensures that the power station can meet your energy requirements during an outage.