Solar power is becoming more popular every day. It’s clean, renewable, and can save you money on your energy bills. One of the best ways to take advantage of solar power is by using a whole house solar generator. This type of system will not only power your home, it’ll also help reduce your carbon footprint.
A whole house solar generator captures sunlight through solar panels on your roof or in your yard. The sunlight is converted into electricity, which is then used to power your home. If you produce more energy than you need, you can even sell it back to the grid!
When shopping for one of these systems, you should pay attention to factors such as the size of your home, your energy needs, and the amount of sunlight you receive. It’s crucial to select a system that is both efficient and suitable for your specific situation. Now, let’s dive into more details on how to find the perfect whole house solar generator that fits your needs.
Top Whole House Solar Generators
We’ve gathered the best whole house solar generators for your home and business needs.
EF ECOFLOW 240V/7200Wh Home Battery Backup
The EF ECOFLOW Home Battery Backup is a powerhouse choice for whole-house solar generator needs.
Pros
- Large capacity (7200W / 21.6kWh)
- X-Stream fast charging
- 15 versatile outputs
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Heavy at 99 pounds
- System monitoring requires app
We recently got our hands on the EF ECOFLOW 240V/7200Wh Home Battery Backup, and it’s a game changer. This beast is designed to power your entire home seamlessly, providing reliable solar energy that’s perfect for emergencies and daily use alike.
With a massive output power of up to 7200W and a 21.6kWh capacity, this generator will power 99% of your household appliances with ease. We were amazed at the X-Stream fast charging technology that fully recharges the unit in just 1.8 hours from a 240V outlet or 2.7 hours from an 1800W wall outlet.
One of our favorite features is the 15 versatile outputs. We charged laptops, phones, and various devices without any problem. Plus, it can power high-wattage appliances like a clothes dryer or an electric heater!
The downsides? It’s not the cheapest option on the market, and at 99 pounds, it’s rather heavy. Also, the system monitoring requires using the EcoFlow app, which may not appeal to everyone. That said, the overall performance and reliability of the EF ECOFLOW 240V/7200Wh Home Battery Backup make it a top pick for those serious about solar power.
So if you’re ready to invest in a whole-house solar generator that’s reliable, fast, and powerful, give the EF ECOFLOW a try. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed!
BLUETTI AC200P Portable Power Station
The BLUETTI AC200P is a perfect investment for those seeking reliable power backup and outdoor convenience.
Pros
- Huge 2000Wh capacity with 2000W inverter
- Long-lasting LiFePO4 battery cells
- Fast and efficient recharging options
Cons
- Heavy at 60.6 pounds
- Premium price point
- May be overkill for small, occasional needs
We recently tried the BLUETTI AC200P and it left us impressed with its performance. With a massive 2000Wh capacity, this power station gave us the confidence that we could power almost any home device in case of an emergency.
The unit’s ultra-safe LiFePO4 battery cells provide more than 3500 life cycles while maintaining 80% efficiency, ensuring that our power backup would last for over a decade. Plus, it’s got 17 versatile outlets, including wireless charging pads and a 12V/25A DC port.
While the weight might be a drawback for some, we found it manageable. The unit is designed for easy portability, despite its 60.6-pound frame. However, we must admit that the BLUETTI AC200P may not be suitable for those with smaller, sporadic power needs due to its sheer size and capabilities.
What truly captivated us was the recharge efficiency. The AC200P supports up to 700W solar and 500W AC input, cutting the charging time to just 2.5 hours if you use solar+AC or dual AC charging. This feature made it convenient for us to get back to full power quickly, even when we were out camping or during a power outage at home.
In conclusion, the BLUETTI AC200P is a powerful, long-lasting, and convenient portable power station. If you can overlook its weight and price, it’s definitely worth considering for those in need of a reliable power backup.
DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Generator
We think you’ll love the DuroMax XP4400EH for its dual fuel capabilities and user-friendly design.
Pros
- Runs on gas or liquid propane
- 4,400 starting watts, versatile for various uses
- User-friendly, easy to operate
Cons
- Could have longer run time
- A bit hefty at 128 pounds
- Limited to 3,500 running watts
Ready to ditch power outages? The DuroMax XP4400EH has got your back, whether at home, on an RV trip, or at a job site. With its dual fuel technology, you can opt for gasoline or propane, thus giving you the freedom to choose.
The generator’s powerful 210cc engine provides tons of power to handle different tasks, from powering high voltage appliances to heavy-duty power tools. Plus, no need to worry about compatibility with your devices since the power panel has a selection of outlets for various applications.
Its 4,400 starting watts and 3,500 running watts can handle heavy loads, but you might want more runtime if you’ll be using the generator extensively. Despite its somewhat bulky weight, the DuroMax XP4400EH proves to be an excellent option for those looking for reliable, versatile power.
Jackery Solar Generator 2000 PRO
Discover clean, reliable energy with the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 PRO – perfect for home backup and outdoor adventures.
Pros
- Massive 2160Wh battery capacity
- Quick charging and multiple outlets
- 5-Year Jackery Warranty
Cons
- Quite heavy at 51 pounds
- Plastic enclosure
- Only 1 Solar Panel included
Imagine having a power source you can rely on during emergencies, camping trips, or in your RV. We’ve tried the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 PRO, and trust us, it’s a game changer.
This solar generator boasts a massive 2160Wh battery capacity – enough to power 99% of your home appliances in case of an outage or while enjoying the great outdoors. With 8 outlets, including 3 AC outlets, 2 USB-A, 2 USB-C, and 1 car outlet, you can simultaneously power multiple devices.
The ergonomic handle and one-touch setup make this generator a breeze to use. And did we mention it’s quiet? The Explorer 2000 PRO operates at under 53 dB, so you can enjoy peaceful charging without disturbing your surroundings.
However, keep in mind that this beast weighs 51 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some. The enclosure is made of plastic, but it’s certified with Impact-Resistance Class 9, passing the UL drop test. Although it comes with one SolarSaga 200W Solar Panel, you’ll need to purchase additional panels if you want faster charging.
Overall, we’re impressed with the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 PRO. It’s a fantastic investment for anyone looking for an eco-friendly, reliable source of energy in any situation. Check it out for yourself.
EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER 2 Pro
A great investment for off-grid adventures and home backup, with some minor drawbacks.
Pros
- Fast charging (70 minutes)
- Powers 80% of appliances
- Long-life LFP battery
Cons
- Heavy at 17.2 lbs
- Limited runtime
- Pricey for some budgets
We recently tried out the EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER 2 Pro and were quite impressed. This solar generator is not only powerful but also incredibly fast to recharge. In just 70 minutes, you can fully recharge through an AC outlet.
What sets it apart is its ability to power 80% of your appliances, thanks to its 1600W output. With 11 different outlets, from 800W AC outlets to USB-C ports, you can charge or run multiple devices at once without overloading. This makes it perfect for outdoor adventures and home backup during power outages.
Moreover, the RIVER 2 Pro features an LFP battery, which lasts significantly longer than traditional lithium batteries. You can recharge and use this powerhouse more than 3,000 times before it hits 80% capacity. That’s nearly a decade of regular use!
However, it’s essential to know that the RIVER 2 Pro is on the heavier side, weighing 17.2 lbs. While it comes with a built-in handle, the weight might be a concern for some people. Additionally, the runtime may not be enough for long-term power outages, as it lasts about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
In conclusion, the EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station RIVER 2 Pro is a versatile solar generator with impressive charging capabilities. If you’re willing to look past its weight and limited runtime, it’s truly an investment worth considering for both off-grid adventures and home backup.
Anker SOLIX F2000 Power Station and Expansion Battery
A reliable, powerful, and long-lasting solar generator to cover your whole house energy needs.
Pros
- Long-lasting with 10-year lifespan
- 4096Wh capacity when combined with expansion battery
- 2400W output for 12 devices
Cons
- Heavy at 112.9 pounds
- Expensive
- Some units had wiring issues
Anker’s SOLIX F2000 Power Station is an impressive solar generator for your whole house. With its InfiniPower technology, LiFePO4 batteries, and durable components, it is built to last for over a decade.
Adding the 760 Expansion Battery doubles its capacity to 4096Wh, giving you even more power for your devices. The F2000 can hook up to 12 devices at once, thanks to its variety of ports, including an RV port, 4 AC outlets, 3 USB-C ports, 2 USB-A ports, and 2 car outlets.
The F2000 is heavy, weighing 112.9 pounds, but it has a handle and wheels for better mobility. Some users reported issues with the wiring, but Anker’s customer service seems to be responsive to these concerns.
In conclusion, if you need a powerful and lasting solar generator for your whole house, and don’t mind its weight or price, the Anker SOLIX F2000 Portable Power Station and 760 Expansion Battery is worth considering.
PowerSmart 4400-Watt Portable Generator
This generator is a reliable, affordable option for home emergency power and more.
Pros
- Powerful with 4400 peak watts
- Features advanced inverter technology
- Long runtime (up to 11 hours at 50% load)
Cons
- Slightly bulky at 68.8 pounds
- No wheels for easy transport
- Not as quiet as some competitors
Last week, we tested the PowerSmart 4400-Watt Portable Generator and were quite impressed. Although a bit on the heavier side, this gas-powered generator provided ample power for our entire home during a surprise power outage. With low-oil shutdown, economy mode, and overload protection, this generator offers safety features we appreciate.
What really caught our attention was the advanced inverter technology built into this generator. Our sensitive electronics worked flawlessly, without the usual concerns associated with traditional generators. The generator also has a variety of outlets, including a 120V, RV-ready 30A outlet, making it perfect for camping trips in our RV.
The only drawback we experienced with this PowerSmart generator was that transport was slightly less convenient due to its weight and lack of wheels. It’s also slightly noisier than some other generator models we’ve tested. However, at such an affordable price and with impressive performance, we highly recommend the PowerSmart 4400-Watt Portable Generator for anyone in need of a whole-house solar generator.
Goal Zero Yeti 3000X Portable Power Station
A strong choice for power at home or on-the-go with reliable battery capacity and solar rechargeability.
Pros
- Massive 3,032Wh battery capacity
- 7 versatile ports for powering devices
- Solar rechargeability with Goal Zero solar panels
Cons
- Heavy at 78 pounds
- Home Integration Kit not included
- Pricey compared to other solar generators
We recently tested the Goal Zero Yeti 3000X, and let us tell you – this bad boy packs a punch with its 3,032Wh battery capacity. If you’re looking to keep your house powered during outages or need a reliable source of power for your adventurous lifestyle, this solar generator is your new best friend.
What we like about the Yeti 3000X is its versatility. We were able to power various devices, such as power tools, fridges, and e-bikes with ease. With multiple USB ports and a pure sine 2000W (3500W surge) AC inverter, you can run almost anything with this machine.
The Goal Zero Yeti 3000X also scores high on durability and safety. Its heavy-duty anodized aluminum enclosure houses a reliable tier 1 lithium battery cell, ensuring no toxic fumes or gas emissions. Plus, it’s got quiet operation – a huge perk!
Another amazing feature we experienced was solar rechargeability. When paired with a Goal Zero solar panel, you can transform the Yeti 3000X into a solar generator. With the 600W MPPT charge controller, solar input increases by up to 30 percent, turning your power station into an eco-friendly, indefinite power source.
Keep in mind, this solar generator is quite heavy, weighing in at 78 pounds, so it might not be the best option for everyone. Additionally, the Yeti Home Integration Kit doesn’t come included with the generator, which is a bummer considering the price point. However, its benefits and reliability far outweigh these drawbacks.
So, should you grab a Goal Zero Yeti 3000X Portable Power Station? We say, if dependable and versatile power is what you’re after, and you’re ready to invest in a high-quality solar generator, the Yeti 3000X is an outstanding choice.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Solar Generator
When looking for a whole house solar generator, it’s crucial to consider specific features. We’re here to help with that!
Capacity: How much power can it store? Check the watt-hours (Wh) to ensure it meets your needs.
Output: What’s the maximum power output? Examine the watts (W) to verify it can handle your appliances.
Charge time: How fast does it recharge? Shorter charge times mean you’ll be up and running quicker.
Portability: Do you need to move it around? Think about weight and size for easy transport.
Expandability: Can you add more solar panels or batteries later? This offers flexibility as your power needs grow.
By considering these key features, you’re well on your way to finding the perfect whole house solar generator for you. Happy hunting!
Buying Guide
When choosing a whole house solar generator, we gotta keep a few things in mind. Let’s break down the essentials.
Capacity
First and foremost, capacity is key. How much power do we need? List our appliances and tally up their wattage.
- Fridge: 150-400 watts
- TV: 50-400 watts
- Laptop: 50-100 watts
Make sure to choose a generator that can handle our power needs.
Battery Type
There are different battery types available. The two popular ones are lead-acid and lithium-ion.
- Lead-acid: Cheaper but heavier
- Lithium-ion: Lighter but pricier
It’s a trade-off between weight and wallet.
Installation and Maintenance
Do we want a DIY solution or professional installation? Some systems are easier to set up than others. Consider factors like warranty, support, and additional maintenance costs.
A solar pro
: Easier but costly
DIY enthusiast
: Fun but time-consuming
Inverter
The inverter is the heart of our solar system. It converts DC to AC power for our home. Pick a model that matches our system size and has a good efficiency.
Don’t skimp on this vital component!
By considering these factors, we’ll put ourselves in a great position to choose the best solar generator for our home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I size a solar system for my whole house?
First, we need to calculate your home’s energy usage. Grab your electricity bill and find the monthly kilowatt-hours (kWh) consumed. Next, divide that number by 30 to get daily usage. Now, we’ll use factors like your location and the efficiency of the solar panels to determine the needed system size. When in doubt, consult a solar professional.
What will a whole house solar system cost?
The cost depends on several factors like system size, location, and additional equipment. On average, a residential solar system can cost between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Keep in mind, government programs and financing options are available to make solar more affordable.
Can I run my house on solar power alone?
Yes, you can, but it depends on your home’s energy consumption and solar system size. With a well-designed solar system and battery storage, you can power your entire house. In some cases, connecting to the grid offers extra security during low-sunlight situations.
What happens to excess power from my solar system?
If your solar system generates more power than your house needs, the excess energy can be sent back to the grid. Many utilities use a process called net metering, which credits your account for any excess energy you produce. With net metering, you can offset future bills or even get paid for your surplus power.
How long will a whole house solar system last?
A high-quality solar system can last up to 25-30 years. Solar panels tend to lose efficiency over time, usually around 0.5% per year. Even after the first 25 years, your solar panels may still work at around 80% efficiency. Regular maintenance helps extend your system’s lifespan.
Does rain or snow affect my solar power system?
Rain helps in cleaning your solar panels, ensuring optimal performance. However, rain reduces the amount of sunlight reaching the panels, which might lower energy production. As for snow, it can block sunlight if it accumulates on your panels. But fear not, snow melts quickly, so your solar system will be back in action in no time.