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How to size a power station
Capacity is measured in watt-hours (Wh): how much energy is stored. Output is measured in watts (W): how much it can power at once. You need enough of both.
- List what you want to run and its wattage (on the label or manual).
- Multiply each by the hours you need it. A 60 W CPAP for 8 hours is 480 Wh; a 15 W router for 24 hours is 360 Wh.
- Add about 15–20% for inverter losses.
- Check the station's continuous output covers everything running at once, and its surge rating covers startup spikes from fridges and pumps.
Typical Texas loads
| Device | Running watts (typical) | Energy per day |
|---|---|---|
| Modern refrigerator | 100–200 W cycling (startup surge higher) | 1–2 kWh |
| Wi-Fi router + modem | 10–25 W | 0.25–0.6 kWh |
| Box fan | 50–100 W | depends on hours |
| CPAP (no heated humidifier) | 30–60 W | 0.3–0.5 kWh per night |
| Window AC (small) | 500–900 W | large: plan on big batteries or a generator |
| Well pump | 750–1,500 W, high surge | varies; often needs 240 V |
Features worth paying for
- LiFePO4 battery chemistry for long life
- Pure sine wave AC output (safe for electronics and medical devices)
- Fast AC charging so you can refill during brief power windows
- Solar input with a solar charge controller (MPPT) built in
- UPS or pass-through mode for CPAPs and routers
- Expansion batteries if you may want more capacity later
- For larger units: a 240 V option or a transfer-switch kit for home circuits
Brands to compare
These four brands make most of the popular units sold in Texas. Compare current models on capacity, output, warranty and price rather than brand loyalty.
EcoFlow
Wide range from compact units to expandable whole-home systems; known for fast charging.
Partner link coming soonJackery
Popular Explorer line, simple controls, solar generator bundles with folding panels.
Partner link coming soonAnker SOLIX
Anker's power line, from portable stations to large home-backup units.
Partner link coming soonBLUETTI
Modular stations and expansion batteries, including larger 240 V capable systems.
Partner link coming soonPrefer to compare prices and reviews in one place? Browse power stations on Amazon (partner link coming soon).
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a power station indoors?
Yes. Battery power stations make no exhaust, so they are safe indoors, unlike fuel generators. Keep them ventilated, dry and away from heat sources, and follow the manufacturer's charging instructions.
What does LiFePO4 mean?
Lithium iron phosphate, a battery chemistry most current power stations use. It typically lasts thousands of charge cycles and is more thermally stable than older lithium-ion chemistries.
How many solar panels do I need to recharge one?
Roughly, divide the battery capacity by about 4 to 5 sun-hours. A 1,000 Wh station needs about 200 to 300 W of panels for a full charge on a sunny Texas day.