Solar Panel Shading Math: How Much Power is Lost?
Solar panel shading can reduce your solar power output by 10% to 90% depending on the shading pattern and panel configuration. Partial shading affects entire panel strings due to bypass…
-
-
How to Chain Solar Panels Together for More Power
To chain solar panels together for more power, you connect them in series (increasing voltage) or parallel (increasing current) using MC4 connectors and proper gauge wire. Series wiring adds up…
-
Ergonomics: Handles vs. Wheels for Power Stations
Power station handles work best for short distances and quick moves, while wheels are better for long distances and heavy loads over 30 pounds. Your choice between handles vs. wheels…
-
How to Troubleshoot & Fix a Dead Power Station
A dead power station can often be fixed by checking the battery connection, trying a different charging cable, or performing a hard reset by holding the power button for 10-15…
-
Solar Input Ratings: How Much Solar Can You Add?
Your portable power station’s solar input rating tells you the maximum solar watts it can accept, typically ranging from 100W to 2000W depending on your model. Most power stations can…
-
mAh vs. Wh: How to Calculate Battery Capacity
mAh measures current capacity over time, while Wh measures total energy storage – multiply mAh by voltage and divide by 1000 to convert between them. Understanding battery capacity helps you…
-
What is THD? Inverter Clean Power Explained
THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) measures how much an inverter’s AC power output deviates from a perfect sine wave, with lower percentages meaning cleaner power for your devices. Clean power from…
-
How Much Power Does a Mini Fridge Use? (Watts)
A mini fridge typically uses between 55-85 watts when running, with compact 1.7 cubic foot models using around 55-70 watts and larger 4.4 cubic foot units consuming 70-85 watts. Most…
-
Lead Acid vs. Lithium Power Stations: Which is Best?
Lithium power stations outperform lead acid models in weight, lifespan, and efficiency, but cost significantly more upfront. Lead acid power stations offer budget-friendly entry into portable power, while lithium stations…
-
Depth of Discharge (DoD): Battery Health Explained
Depth of Discharge (DoD) measures how much battery capacity you’ve used compared to the total capacity, expressed as a percentage. A 50% DoD means you’ve used half your battery’s stored…
