Frequently asked questions

Why doesn’t a 1000 Wh station run a 100 W device for 10 hours?
Converting the battery’s DC power to AC loses energy as heat, and the station’s own electronics use a little. About 85% reaches the appliance, so expect roughly 8 h 30 min.
What’s the difference between Wh and W?
Watt-hours (Wh) is how much energy the battery stores, like the size of a fuel tank. Watts (W) is how fast energy is used or delivered, like the flow from the tank. You need enough of both.
Can a power station run a space heater?
Only briefly. A 1500 W heater empties a 1000 Wh station in under 40 minutes, and many stations can’t deliver 1500 W at all. An electric blanket at around 100 W keeps you warm for far longer.
How accurate are the appliance wattages?
They are typical values for planning. Real draw varies by model and setting. The appliance label or a plug-in power meter gives your exact figure, and you can type it into the calculator.
Does cold weather reduce runtime?
Yes. Lithium batteries deliver less energy in the cold, and most can’t charge below freezing. Keep the station indoors or insulated in winter.
Do you get paid for the Amazon links?
Yes. If you buy through them, this site earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. It doesn’t change the math: the calculator recommends a size, not a brand.

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