How to choose a solar generator? | Bunnings Workshop community

I'm wanting to buy a solar generator but really don't understand the jargon associated with them.

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- I'm can spend a maximum of up to $4,000. It needs to suitable as an alternative power supply if the power goes out for a minimum of about a week or two.

- Each day, I'd like to be able to run a small fridge, and for a few hours each day: portable air conditioner, lights.

- For a coule hours, each week a washing machine.  I have gas for hot water.

- also to be able to charge my and laptop.

Please, if you reply, can you explain what it is you are saying, as something like: "SR Portables Minotaur wh 116ah portable lithium solar generator" means nothing to me, it may as well be a foreign language. Does the lithium refer to the battery??

- Do the generators usually come with the solar panels??

- I'm in a rental and so some panels could go on the garden shed. Is installation more than about $500?.

** would the generator in the image be suitable???

Thank you so very much for any help that you can give.

regards from Jan in Frankston Victoria.

Hi @bkjan,

I’ll break things down step-by-step so it’s easier to understand, and I’ll address each of your points.

What’s a Solar Generator?

A solar generator is essentially a portable power station that stores energy from solar panels and uses that stored energy to power appliances and devices. It typically consists of a battery (often lithium, which is long-lasting and efficient), an inverter (to convert the stored DC power into usable AC power), and charging inputs (to charge the generator via solar panels, wall outlets, or carports).

The term "lithium" does refer to the type of battery, and it’s a good choice because lithium batteries are lightweight, charge faster, and last much longer compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.

What to look for based on your needs:

You mentioned running a small fridge, portable air conditioner, lights, a washing machine, and charging your and laptop. The key factor here is the capacity (how much power the generator can store) and the output power (how much energy it can provide at once). Here's a rough idea of how much power things typically use:

• Small fridge: Around 100-200 watts.
• Portable air conditioner: Around 500- watts (depending on the size).
• Lights: Around 10-50 watts (depending on type).
• Washing machine: Around 500- watts for a typical cycle.
• /laptop: Around 30-100 watts when charging.

Given your needs, a generator with at least Wh (watt-hours) of storage would be ideal for daily usage, with the ability to run most of these devices over the course of a day, and possibly a bit longer. For example, Wh could power a small fridge for 1-2 days.

BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC240:

• Wh/W means the generator can store watt-hours of energy and can supply up to watts of power at once. This is a good choice for your daily power needs.
• 200W solar panel: This is the size of the panel included to charge the generator. A 200W panel can provide around 800-Wh of energy per day, depending on the sunlight. So if you’re using the generator during the day and charging it at the same time, this setup can work quite well.

Do solar generators come with panels?

Yes, some solar generators (like the BLUETTI) come with solar panels included in the package, but it’s important to check if it’s an optional add-on or part of the kit. The 200W panel with the BLUETTI is a great starting point, but if you want to ensure quicker recharging, or if you're off-grid for a longer time, you can always buy additional panels.

Solar panel installation

Since you’re in a rental, installing panels may need to be a temporary setup (depending on what’s allowed in your lease). Panels for the garden shed should work as long as they get enough sunlight.

For installation costs, it varies. If you're just setting up the panels on the shed without needing to wire them into the house or do any major work, installation could cost less than $500. If you need professional installation to ensure it’s done correctly, it could be a bit more, but in your case, setting up the panels outside shouldn’t be too complex. You might even be able to set it up yourself, as long as you're comfortable with assembling the panels and connecting them to the generator.

For your budget of $, the BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC240 is a solid option, especially if you can top it up daily with the solar panel and are looking for an immediate power solution. If you’re planning for an extended power outage, you might want to add additional panels or look into a larger generator, but for a week or two, this should serve your needs quite well. 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

Thank you so very much for the detailed explanation, it's the clearest one I've heard.

- Can I only use one of these items at at time or a few at a time each day??

- How long each day can I run the fridge, charge laptop/, run air conditioner etc.

- Can I add an extra solar panel to the the BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC240 that Bunnings sells, SEE IMAGES, is there an extra socket to add this?

- In the picture they look like 2 different types of solar panels, not sure why.

- Or should I look at buying a different Bunnings solar station. It says that it is a power station, I need it to be completely reliant on solar charging, does this model do that?

- I need to be able to use this for long term power outages of a few weeks, so it needs to have a good battery and solar capacity (especially if it is cloudy).

Again, thanks so very much.

From Jan

Hi Jan,

I’m glad the explanation helped clarify things. Now, let's go through your follow-up questions.

How Many Devices Can You Run at Once?

The BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC240 (and similar models) can run multiple devices at the same time, but the total power drawn shouldn’t exceed the generator’s output capacity. The AC240 can handle up to W at once, which means you can run devices simultaneously as long as their combined power usage is below that limit. For example:

• If you're running a small fridge (100-200W), and charging your laptop (30-100W), you’ll still have plenty of power left for other devices.
• If you add a portable air conditioner (500-W), you may want to keep the other devices running for shorter periods to avoid maxing out the power supply.

How Long Can You Run Devices Each Day?

This depends on the capacity of the solar generator and the devices' power consumption. For example:

• A small fridge (100-200W) can typically run for 1-2 days on a Wh generator. If it’s constantly running, you’ll want to recharge the generator during the day with solar.
• The laptop (around 30-100W) and can easily be charged throughout the day without much impact on the generator’s battery.
• For the air conditioner, it will drain the battery more quickly. A portable air conditioner could consume anywhere from 500W to W depending on the model. If you’re running the air conditioner for several hours a day, the generator will likely need to be recharged more frequently.

If you're aiming to run devices throughout the day, you'll need to factor in the battery capacity (like Wh) and the solar charging output to ensure you’re recharging the unit regularly, especially on cloudy days.

Can You Add Extra Solar Panels to the BLUETTI AC240?

Yes, you can add extra solar panels to the BLUETTI Portable Power Station AC240. The generator comes with solar input ports, and you can connect additional panels to charge the unit faster. Just check the input specifications for the AC240 to ensure compatibility with other panels. For instance, if you're using a 200W panel, adding a second one can help you get more energy during the day.

Regarding the two different types of panels in the image you mentioned, it could be due to different models of solar panels that are available. Some might be flexible (easier to move or mount) and others might be rigid (more efficient but less flexible in placement). Both types can work, but it’s important to make sure they are compatible with the power station in terms of wattage and connection type.

Does the BLUETTI AC240 Work as a Solar-Only Power Station?

Yes, the BLUETTI AC240 is designed to rely on solar charging as its primary power source, but it can also be charged via a wall outlet or car if needed. If you’re planning to use it primarily for long-term power outages, it’s important to keep it topped up with solar, particularly if you're off-grid or experiencing cloudy weather. During extended outages, you may need to charge it during the day with the solar panels to keep it running effectively.

If you’re looking for long-term use during prolonged power outages, you may want to consider a generator with higher battery storage, like the BLUETTI EB240 (Wh), or even something larger like the BLUETTI AC200P (W continuous/W peak, with a massive Wh battery). These can provide more power for longer periods and would be more suitable for a few weeks of continuous use.

Extra Considerations

Since you're planning for long-term power outages and want the generator to be solar-dependent, you'll want to ensure the solar panel setup can generate enough power to keep the system topped up. During cloudy days or less-than-ideal weather, having multiple solar panels will be important for maintaining consistent power.

Also, don’t forget that solar generators are considered emergency power supplies, which means that while they are great for temporary outages, they’re not designed to power an entire home 24/7. If you plan on using it every day for multiple devices, you may want to look into more permanent solutions, such as a solar system designed for whole-home use. These systems typically include much larger battery banks and solar panel arrays.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Goto ygne to know more.

Mitchell

Wow, such great information, I'm getting the hang of what I need to know.

As I live in a rental I cannot install a home solar system, so I am reliant on a portable one.

- I researched the EB240 that you mentioned but it cannot be charged via car, and only has 3 ways to charge it.

- I could not find the BLUETTI AC200P on the Bunnings website, it says that there are 7 ways to charge it, so that's great and would be very useful.

- Is there a similar one that you can recommend, or will Bunnings be ordering it in?

- Do you have any idea of how much the extra solar panels would cost for the AC200P? Does Bunnings sell them?

- what happens if there is a fault with it, does Bluetti come and repair it or do I return it to Bunnings?

Thank you again, from Jan

Warmer weather is here, and the ideal time to prepare for those backyard gatherings.

And if you want to continue your entertainment well into the night, the best solar lights will provide the ultimate “glow-up” once the sun goes down.

As someone who is obsessed with homes and interior decor, I’ve probably spent a fortune on lighting over the years.

The practicality of not requiring electrical plug/sockets means that you can place solar lights virtually anywhere around your home. These simply self-charge in the sun through the day and come to life at night — while being more sustainable in the process.

But while the possibilities with solar lights are endless, there are some things I wish I’d known before buying solar lights. These simple considerations can make all the difference to your desired outcome — and will probably save you money in the long-run!

So before you splash out on expensive lighting to spruce up your home, here are some things I wish I knew before buying solar lights.

1. Choose the right lighting for your location

Not all solar lights are created equal, and it’s important to know exactly what you want to illuminate and location before buying.

Do you want it to showcase your beautiful plants and landscaping? Do you want string lighting for a more romantic aesthetic, or do you simply want to uplight your pathways or patio doors?

I’ve made the mistake of buying lights without thinking about where I was going to place them — or whether they were even suitable for the location. This would often result in me spending more to buy the correct lights.

In addition, consider how high up you need your solar lights to be. If you have a compact yard or lack ground space, you’ll probably benefit from wall lights. These are installed on the external walls or fence of your home and provide light immediately around it.

Alternatively, if you just want to highlight specific areas in the backyard rather than lighting up the entire space, solar spotlights are a great option.

Similar to path lights, these are usually designed with stakes to hold them in the ground, just ensure you place them in a location where it will receive adequate sunlight.

To save you the disappointment (and money), always choose the right solar light type to get the most out of your lighting.

For more top tips, check out our helpful guide on which solar lights should you buy?

2. How many lights do you need?

Another mistake I’ve made is not considering how many solar lights I’ll need and how bright they'll need to be.

For instance, I purchased string lights for my backyard only to find that the bulbs and cable length were shorter than the actual fences. I’d also bought pathway lights for my porch, before realizing they were not adequate enough.

With that in mind, check the number of bulbs and the length of any cables to ensure it covers a specific area.

Similarly, when placing multiple solar lights around your yard, make sure they are adequately spaced and not clustered together.

Proper spacing will avoid shading each other, and helps each light receive enough sunlight.

Experts recommend tilting your solar panels between 30 and 50 degrees to ensure they receive adequate sunlight even during winter months. Plus, you don’t want your yard perfectly lit in one corner, and dark in other areas.

Additionally, think about what tone of lighting you want in your outdoor spaces. Most solar lights use LED bulbs which project a white light. However if, like me, you find this too harsh, you might prefer a warm, soft tone, or invest in solar lights with colorful tints to match the mood.

3. How much sunlight does the location get?

We all know that solar lights need the sun to work, so be prepared for your lights to struggle in the wrong locations.

I’ve been guilty of placing solar lights in shaded areas of my yard or spots that lack sunlight and have noticed a huge difference.

Knowing how best to place solar lights around your home, also depends on the type of solar lights you choose.

Generally, lights require eight-10 hours of direct sunlight per day to produce around 15 hours of illumination. So it's best to place your lights in an area that isn't shaded by trees, walls or even certain roofs, as these can obstruct the amount of light the solar panels receive.

And while solar lights do still work on dull, cloudy days, the charge isn’t likely to last as long.

A clever trick is to simply bring your solar lights indoors during the day and leave by a window. Surprisingly, LED solar lights can charge through glass, as the photovoltaic cells are sensitive enough to get the right light wavelengths.

Alternatively, you could try these top tips on how to charge solar lights without sun.

4. Don’t buy cheap solar lights

I’ve often been enticed by cheap solar light options — only to be disappointed each time. And while these had transformed my backyard on a budget, it wasn't too long before they’d stop working.

It’s far better to spend the money on quality solar lighting to guarantee better results. Ideally, buying lights with a rating of IP65 or higher is more suitable for outdoor use.

You want to make sure your solar light will last throughout the year, and can withstand extreme weather conditions.

As the saying goes, “you get what you pay for,” and if you’ve found a ridiculously cheap bargain, it’s probably too good to be true!

5. Consider timer settings

Another thing I hadn't considered was whether solar lights came with any timer settings.

Certain lights have a built-in timer that will automatically turn off your lights after a set time — usually between two and six hours. What’s more, some smart or motion lights have multiple modes, where you can customize and adjust auto timings and color variations to suit your lifestyle.

So it’s worth deciding whether you’ll prefer the convenience of timer settings before investing in quality solar lights.

Are you interested in learning more about portable solar light tower? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

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