A generator can offer backup power when you are facing a power outage and need electricity to run your home. Today, it has become fairly common to use solar-powered portable generators for they are the best of their kind. Their presence provides peace of mind, and they can act as lifesavers during a prolonged power outage amidst harsh weather conditions. Even though a solar generator is easy to use, it will not last long if you do not maintain it properly. It may even malfunction, and you may get hurt. Hence, before buying a portable solar generator, learn how to use them safely. There are various things to be careful of to avoid any problem with the machine. Check out some of them below.
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Install a Transfer Switch
If you have bought a generator, contact an electrician and ask the professional to install a transfer switch at your home. You can then connect the portable device to the switch and power the electric circuits in your house. An electrician usually installs a transfer switch next to the electrical panel. It lets you power the plugs that are already present in the place. The switch can also power a well-pump or furnace connected to your house’s circuits. Additionally, a transfer switch aids power management. Keep this safety tip in mind for better results.
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Avoid Plugging a Generator Directly into a Wall Outlet
Plugging a generator into a wall outlet can lead to problems. Such an action can send power back down the utility lines. This phenomenon is known as back-feed, which can severely harm your machine. A fire may start as a result, and it could even electrocute professionals who are working to bring power back on the lines. A transfer switch is the safest way to isolate your house’s circuits from the power lines.
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Check Out the Manual Thoroughly and Understand the Basics
It will not be difficult to operate a solar generator if you understand the basics. Various solar-powered generators are available in the market, like, EcoFlow DELTA + 110W Solar Panel. Understand the specifics of your particular machine and go through the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s instructions before starting to operate it right away.
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Charge its Battery
After getting a solar generator for the first time, charge up the battery, but, it is not the case with all the devices. Some models come with a battery level of 0%, and after unboxing, the user needs to charge them up.
For Lithium-ion batteries, charge it closer to 70% to extend the battery life. A lot of users store their machines with a 65-80% charge and check them every 2-3 months to see if they require a bit more of a charge. It is a good practice and keeps the batteries fine, but if you use the generator frequently, begin recharging it as soon as it gets around 20% remaining capacity. You should not drain a lithium-ion battery fully.
If you are charging through solar panels, use a panel rated within the power station’s input range. If you get a solar generator system (including both panel and power station) from the same manufacturer in a kit, then it is okay. If you use third-party panels, review their specifications first. When you feel satisfied, only then charge your portable solar generator.
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Use only Recommended Charging Accessories
A portable solar-powered generator comes with its charging accessories. It is the case both for AC and DC, but if it is not, the recommended charging accessories are mentioned. Always stick to them if you want a safe unit that will last years.
Ensure that you use the chargers (both DC and AC) that your generator came with. This way, you will follow the producer’s recommendations and will not face any warranty issues. If you have to use a charger other than the recommended one, pick only compatible and suitable models. Visit 3rd party marketplaces or buy directly from the manufacturer’s site. If neither of these work, get an OEM product from another region. Carefully check the ratings before buying and ensure that they match the ratings of the original accessory.
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Do Not Expose the Machine to Dust
The circuits of your solar generator and dust particles do not go well together. You may not feel or see this effect soon, but later, the dust can harden into something formidable. It may then ruin your generator and disrupt its smooth running.
Avoid this, and do not keep the machine in a dust-infested area. If you have no other choice, utilise a hairdryer and clean the dust through the device’s air vents. Repeat this before using the machine next time. While storing a generator, ensure the place is dustproof. You can take additional measures like wrapping the device in dust-resistant leather to protect it.
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Practice Power Management
You must practice power management. Even if there are enough watts to operate your electrical system, you should not run everything simultaneously. Use what you need at a time and then turn devices on one at a time. Remember that a few items need extra power when you first turn them on. You do not want to produce power spikes or surges. Power management is an excellent and proven way to protect a portable solar generator. It ensures that they remain functional for a long time and does not cause any such problem.
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Do Not Handle the Generator Casually
Accidents happen by chance, but sometimes, what many people call an accident is simply an act of carelessness or stupidity. For example, many people handle or transport a generator in a drunken state. Any damage that follows because of such a risky action is not an accident, but the direct outcome of sheer stupidity.
Your generator can fall, which will damage it badly and may even reduce its lifespan. Do not take these machines casually. Once it falls your woes will begin, and you have to face a lot of trouble later.
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