Guides
Backup power guides
Plain-language explanations to help you size, choose, and safely use emergency power equipment.
Sizing & runtime
Plan your backup power
Buying Guide
Best Solar Generator for Seniors: Easy, Safe Backup Power for Older Adults
Weight, simple controls, automatic switchover, and sizing, with research-based picks for older adults.
Brand Guide
4Patriots Solar Generators Compared: Which Model Fits Your Needs?
Every Patriot Power model side by side, with capacity, output, price per watt-hour, and who each suits.
Runtime Guide
How Long Will a Portable Power Station Run a Refrigerator?
A simple formula and runtime table for estimating how long a battery can keep your fridge cold, plus surge and food safety tips.
Medical Device Guide
How to Power a CPAP Machine During a Power Outage
Estimate your CPAP's power draw, compare battery options, and learn why the humidifier matters most for overnight runtime.
Buying Guide
How to Choose the Right Portable Solar Generator for Emergency Home Backup (2026 Edition)
Size a system to your actual loads, understand surge power and battery chemistry, and avoid common mistakes.
Batteries, solar & safety
Understand the technology
Battery Chemistry
LiFePO4 vs. NMC: Which Battery Is Better for Home Backup Power?
Cycle life, weight, thermal stability, and storage compared, with a clear recommendation for emergency backup.
Solar Guide
How Much Power Do Portable Solar Panels Really Produce in Winter?
Why winter output drops, how to estimate daily watt-hours from peak sun hours, and how to get more from your panels.
Safety Comparison
Solar Generator vs. Gas Generator: Which Is Safer for Indoor Emergency Power?
Carbon monoxide risk, noise, fuel, maintenance, and runtime compared side by side.
Inverter Guide
Pure Sine Wave vs. Modified Sine Wave: Which Inverter Do You Need?
Why waveform matters for refrigerators, CPAP machines, and electronics, and how to check before you buy.
Preparedness
Get ready for the next outage
Preparedness Checklist
Power Outage Preparedness Checklist: Before, During, and After
What to do before, during, and after a multi-day outage, from backup power and food safety to carbon monoxide safety.
Winter Outage Guide
Can a Portable Power Station Run a Space Heater?
How long a battery can run an electric heater, and safer, more efficient ways to stay warm in a winter outage.
Home Connection Guide
Do You Need a Transfer Switch for a Portable Power Station?
When to plug in directly, when a transfer switch makes sense, and why you should never backfeed an outlet.
Maintenance Guide
How to Store and Maintain a Portable Power Station
Charge level, temperature, top-ups, testing, and a simple maintenance schedule so your unit is ready.