Can a Solar Generator Power a Space Heater?

There is a lot of debate about whether or not solar generators can power space heaters. Some people say that it’s impossible, while others claim that it’s a great way to save on energy costs. So, which is it? Can solar generators really power space heaters?

The short answer is yes – the right solar generator can easily power a space heater for up to 10 hours/day. However, there are a few things you need to consider before using a solar generator to power your space heater.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss what size solar generator for a space heater and how much money can you save doing so.

What Size Solar Generator To Run a Space Heater?

When it comes to choosing solar generators for space heaters, there are 4 main factors you need to consider:

1. The Rated Wattage Of Your Space Heater

This is the most important factor to consider when sizing a solar generator for your space heater.

Make sure you choose a solar generator that has a higher wattage than the rated wattage of your space heater.

To calculate this, simply divide the operating wattage of the space heater by the power factor (0.85).

For example, if your space heater has a rating of 1000 watts, you’ll need a solar generator with at least a 1200 watt rating (1000/0.85).

Also, if you wish to power more than one appliance at once or even a whole home, make sure to add up the wattage of all appliances you wish to run simultaneously.

For instance, if you wish to power a 1000W heater, a 500W refrigerator, and a 50W laptop charger, then you must opt for a solar generator with at least a 1850W rating (1000+500+50/0.85).

2. The Surge Wattage Of the Space Heater

In addition to the rated wattage, you also need to consider the surge wattage of your space heater.

Surge wattage is the amount of power required to start up some appliances like air conditioners and space heaters.

Most space heaters have a higher surge wattage when they’re first turned on. For example, a 1500W space heater will typically have a 3000W surge wattage.

Therefore, you’ll need to choose a solar generator with a higher surge wattage than the rated wattage of your space heater.

3. The Generator’s Capacity

The next thing you need to consider is the generator’s capacity. The capacity is how much power can the solar generator store to power your heater.

You’ll want to choose a generator with enough capacity to run your space heater for as much as you wish.

For instance, if you wish to run a 1000W space heater for 5 hours/day, then you need 5,000Wh of energy.

Adding 20% to this number will give you some extra power in case of cloudy days or other unexpected events. So, a solar generator with a capacity of 6000Wh would be the best option for you.

However, if you only need to run your space heater for a few hours/day, then a smaller generator may work just fine.

Remember that the larger the generator, the more expensive it will be.

So, only choose a generator with as much capacity as you need to power your space heater.

4. The Size Of The Solar Panel

Finally, you’ll need to consider the size of the solar panel. The solar panel is what powers the generator with sunlight.

The larger the solar panel, the more power it can produce and the faster it will recharge the generator’s battery. Therefore, you’ll need to choose a solar panel that can produce enough power to run your space heater.

Assuming you need a solar system that generates 6,000Wh/day and you get 4 hours of peak sunlight per day, then the best solar panel size to power the space heater would be 1500W or five 300W solar panels. Don’t worry, solar generators come with built-in charge controllers to protect the battery from overcharging.

How Much Money Can Powering a Space Heater With a Solar Generator Save Me?

Assuming you are powering a 1000W heater for 5 hours/day, you are using around 5kWh/day. If the electricity costs $0.12/kWh, then you are spending $0.60/day or $18/month on powering the space heater alone.

The average solar generator can last for up to 25 years with proper maintenance and it can pay for itself within 10 years.

This means that you get up to 15 years of free electricity, which is about $3240!

Not to mention, you’ll be doing your part to save the environment by using renewable energy!

So, if you’re looking for a way to power your space heater without breaking the bank, then solar is the way to go!