3 Disadvantages Of Solar Generators

While solar generators have their advantages over other types, they are not without their negatives. This is why its important to review the available generator options to choose from before making your decision. So, here are some disadvantages of solar generators.

1. They Can Be Expensive

While solar generators are no more expensive than other types of generators, they can cost a decent sized chunk of change. The cost of a solar generator is roughly $1 per watt-hour (Wh) of battery storage. The average price of a solar generator ends up being between $500-1000, depending on a number of factors.

Larger and more powerful solar generators can be very expensive and out of the price range of some homeowners. At this point it might be worth considering a smaller model or a gas generator. Aside from upfront cost, solar generators also require maintenence, including solar panel cleaning and replacing the battery.

However, regardless of the upfront cost, having a working solar generator you can depend on to power your appliances when you need it can be worth it. Solar generators can be used to provide power for your home or business in the event of a power outage. Solar generators can also be used to provide power for your RV or boat. This can make them a worthwhile investment.

2. They Have Low Battery Output

Small solar generators may not provide enough battery output to supply the power you need. If you find that yours is too small when there is an emergency, you could be in for a rude awakening. If you live in an area with frequent power outages, it is important to have a solar generator that can supply enough power for your needs.

Large solar generators can provide you with plenty of backup power when you need it most. If you have a lot of electronics that need to be powered up during an emergency, a large solar generator will be able to handle it.

3. They Depend On The Sun Shining

Solar Panel

Being that solar generators charge through solar panels, they are dependent on the sun shining to recharge. This can make them unreliable generators in certain climates. When you absolutely need backup power, a solar generator may not be able to provide it.

Solar panels only collect energy during the day in and work best in clear weather. If the sky is cloudy, solar panels can still collect energy, but only indirectly. This means if you use a solar generator in regions that tend to get cloudy or rainy, you may be unhappy with its performance.

Solar generators can be a great investment if you live in an area with lots of sun and clear skies. If you don’t, you may want to consider another option for your power needs.

To Close

If you live in a sunny climate that tends to have only short periods of grid failure, then a solar generator may be your best choice. If not, then you might want to consider purchasing a gasoline or diesel generator for home power backup instead. There a plenty of options out there that can fit your home’s energy needs.

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Nick Klamecki, Author
About Nick Klamecki, Author

Nick Klamecki is a certified Fire and Workplace Safety expert with 15 years experience in product research and testing. He has a degree from U.C. Davis, is an active outdoorsman and spent years ensuring the safety of special needs children. Nick researches and tests workplace, industrial and safety products and provides advice on their safe use. Learn more about Nick here or connect with him on LinkedIn | Medium