FAQ
Short answers on watts, runtime, LiFePO4, flying with a power station, and how this site works.
What can I use this site for? Compare portable power stations by capacity, output, weight, and price per watt-hour. Use the calculator to size a unit from the appliances you want to run.
How can I support this project? We take part in affiliate programs. If you buy through a link on this site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What is the difference between running watts and surge watts? Running watts are what the inverter can supply continuously. Surge watts are a short burst (usually a few seconds) to start motors and compressors.
How long will a power station run my devices? A simple estimate is: Runtime (hours) = Battery capacity (Wh) × 0.85 ÷ Device watts. The 0.85 factor covers typical inverter and discharge losses. Real runtime depends on temperature, battery age, and load.
Can I run a refrigerator with a power station? Many household fridges draw about 100–200 W while running and 800–1500 W at startup. You typically need enough surge headroom for that spike, plus enough watt-hours for the hours it will cycle. Check your fridge nameplate, then use the calculator.
What is LiFePO4? LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) is a lithium battery chemistry used in many power stations. It is known for long cycle life and a high thermal-runaway threshold compared with NMC.
Why does charging slow down after about 80%? Most lithium packs switch from fast constant-current charging to a slower constant-voltage stage near the top. That protects the cells. You can usually still charge to 100%. For storage, 50–80% is gentler on the battery.
Can I leave my power station plugged in? Usually yes. A battery management system should stop charging at 100%. Units with UPS or EPS keep powering connected devices if wall power fails — they use the battery, they do not run with a dead pack.
How much does a power station weigh? Weight tracks capacity. Rough ranges: under 500 Wh often about 5–15 lb; 500–1500 Wh about 15–35 lb; over 1500 Wh often 35 lb or more. Check the listing.
Can I take a power station on a plane? TSA and most airlines treat spare lithium batteries by watt-hours. Up to 100 Wh is typically allowed in carry-on. 101–160 Wh usually needs airline approval. Over 160 Wh is generally not allowed. Most power stations are over 160 Wh, so they usually cannot fly. Confirm with your airline.
Can I charge with solar while using the station? Yes if the unit supports pass-through charging. Many do. Check the spec sheet — some limit solar input or AC output during pass-through.
How should I store a power station? Keep it dry, away from extreme heat or cold, and around 50–80% charge if it will sit for months. Recharge every few months so the pack does not sit empty.