How long will a portable power station run
The operating time of a mobile power station is affected by several factors. These include capacity, output power, and environmental conditions. Higher capacity enables greater power output, and the rated output of the connected equipment is critical in determining the overall operating time of the portable power station.
In addition, battery consumption is also accelerated when multiple devices are running at the same time or when high-power devices are used. Therefore, all the factors mentioned above must be taken into account when evaluating the overall runtime.
Let's learn how these factors affect the operating time of a portable power station and how to calculate it accurately.
Table of contents
The Basic Structure of a Portable Power Station
A portable power station is a device that can store and supply electricity for a variety of purposes. While conventional generators rely on fuel to generate electricity, portable power stations use batteries, solar panels, or other renewable sources to store energy and output it when needed.
A typical portable power station consists of a system control board, a voltage inverter, a Li-ion battery or LFP battery, and a BMS. The function of BMS is to convert direct current into alternating current through the inverter, and intelligently control current, voltage, and temperature during discharge to improve output efficiency, extend battery life, and ensure safety.
Mainly Factors Affecting the Run Time of a Portable Power Station
Several factors affect the run time of portable power stations, but the two most important ones are battery capacity and output power.
Battery Capacity
Higher capacity leads to increased energy storage, which increases the potential run time. In simple terms, if a power station has a capacity of 1,000Wh and you connect a device with a power of 100W, it can theoretically run for about 10 hours. Of course, that actual usage will result in a loss of conversion efficiency, which will slightly reduce the stated running time.
Take Anker SOLIX F3800 for an example. Its battery boasts a capacity of 3.84kWh. Plug in LEDs and light your home for 36.4 hours. If that's not enough, add up to six Anker SOLIX expansion batteries to upgrade your portable power station's capacity to 26.9kWh.
Output Power
This figure represents the maximum power output of a portable power station over a specified period. It is crucial to acknowledge that power consumption and ratings vary among different devices. For instance, a laptop typically consumes 60W, while a mobile phone uses 5W. To power both a laptop and a mobile phone for a total of 4 hours, a portable power station with a capacity of at least 260Wh (65W × 4 hours).
Other Elements Influencing the Runtime of a Portable Power Station
In addition to these two key factors above, several other considerations can influence the overall runtime.
Load Power
Load power refers to the power demand of electrical equipment. The run time of the portable power station is inversely proportional to the power of the connected equipment. The higher the power, the faster the power consumption.
For instance: to charge a mobile phone of 5W, a 500Wh power station can last about 100 hours; when running a refrigerator portable, the runtime is reduced to about 5 hours. In summary, the higher the power consumption of connected equipment, the faster the power station will be depleted.
Battery Efficiency
Generally, batteries do not convert 100% of the stored energy into output power. Under normal conditions, the energy conversion efficiency is approximately 85%. However, as the battery undergoes repeated use, its capacity and efficiency undergo a gradual decline.
Typically, a lithium-ion portable power station has a service life of three to five years. The Anker SOLIX Flex Series utilizes safer lithium iron phosphate batteries, offering a lifespan of up to 10 years, providing a better choice for users with long-term power needs.
Ambient Temperature
Battery performance is very sensitive to temperature. Low temperatures reduce chemical activity, leading to reduced output efficiency. On the contrary, the high temperature will accelerate the aging of the battery or activate the protection mechanism, which may cause the normal power output to be interrupted.
Most portable power stations operate best between 50°F and 86°F (10°C and 30°C). In extreme temperatures, the runtime will be shortened accordingly.
How to Calculate the Overall Runtime of a Portable Power Station?
As long as the device power is known, the runtime of the portable power station's operation can be calculated.
Formula and Calculation
The formula for estimating the runtime of a portable power station is as follows:
Runtime (hours) = Battery Capacity (Wh) ÷ Device Power (W)
Wh: Total storage capacity of the power station.
W: Power consumption of the connected device.
This is a theoretical calculation, and the actual result may be reduced by power loss.
Estimated Runtime of Common Devices
As an example, a standalone Anker SOLIX F3800 has 3.84kWh capacity. The chart below shows how long it can run on various devices.
|
Device
|
Microwave
|
Projector
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Fridge
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Wi-Fi Router
|
TV
|
Vacuum
|
Camera
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LED Bulb
|
|
Runtime (Hours)
|
4.3
|
24.3
|
14.9
|
40.1
|
20.1
|
2.6
|
229.2
|
36.4
|
When you need to know the operating time of a power station for a single device or multiple devices, use the power of each device and the total power of your portable power station to easily calculate it.
However, please note that while the formula is correct in theory, the actual running time will vary depending on the actual situation.
How to Extend the Runtime of Portable Power Stations?
If you want to maximize the role of portable power stations in daily life and extend their overall runtime and lifespan, it is essential to use them reasonably. Please consider the following recommendations:
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Choose Loads Appropriately: Select devices with appropriate power to avoid overloading.
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Regular Maintenance and Upkeep: Keep the battery of the power station healthy and check the status of the power station regularly.
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Avoid Overuse: Avoid repeatedly discharging the battery to 0% or charging it once the level reaches 100%.
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Limit Usage in Frigid Temperatures: Use the power station in a warm environment as much as possible to avoid the effects of cold weather.
Conclusion: Meet Your Needs with a Suitable Portable Power Station
The runtime of a portable power station is affected by a variety of factors. It is especially important to understand and consider these key elements when choosing the most appropriate portable power station. Power capacity determines how long you can use your power station, output power relates to how many devices it can power, and intended usage scenarios have a direct impact on the utility and reliability.
By considering these factors and aligning them with individual needs, you can select the most suitable portable power station to meet your requirements. Whether you are preparing for an on-the-go outdoor adventure or want to prepare your home for an unexpected power outage, a portable power station can serve as your power backup. This will ensure that you have reliable, stable, and safe power support in any situation.
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