When grid power fails as a result of a computer crash, inclement weather or brownout, what do you want to run and for how long? Illustrations below are for example only - your devices and usage may vary.
Example #1 SUNRNR operating on one full summer day, off the grid ...
EnergyStar Refrigerator 50W/hr (avg) 24 hr. = 1200W Ceiling Fan, high speed 75W/hr 10 hr. = 750W Lights (6 "60W" LED) 15W/hr 3 hr. = 54W Stove- electric 800W/hr 1 hr. = 800W Computer/Radio/TV 50 W/hr 1 hr = 50W 2854W A fully charged SUNRNR stores 2940W/hr ideally (12V x 245 amp/hr battery), so it is up to the job. However, we need to account for nominal equipment impedance factors which may affect full charge100% of the time. Therefore, with just one solar panel (rated @135W/hr) and 7 hours of sun (or wind) after the storm, you gain roughly another 1000W in your power bank to spare. If you add a Power Module and 3 additional panels, you have plenty of power to meet your needs.
Example #2 Next, same as above, but now the dead of winter... Lower fridge requirements to 30W/hr because of colder temps, change fan to heater at 600W/hr for 10 hours (720 + 6000 + 45 + 50 = 6815W)
This will require the addition of a Power Module and 2 extra panels in the sun for 5.5 winter hours (2000 + ~1430) for a total power generation of 6860W. (Base unit generates 3430W + Power Module's 3430W.) Still better than the gallons of gas burned, if you can get gas, and the units can be inside with no noise!
Example #3 Lastly, localized outages, one night of storm cleanup, power tools in Kansas ... Electric Chain Saw 1200 W/hr 1.5 hr. total run time = 1800W 2 LED SpotLights 10 W/hr 10 hr. = 100W
One SUNRNR! Ready to recharge the next day.
A SUNRNR will provide 2000+ W/hr plus up to 270W/hr for every hour two solar panels are in sun or, plus up to 400W/hr for every hour wind turbine is in wind. You can add that much electricity again for every Power Module added to the system and there is no limit to the number of modules you can add since they are connected in parallel to the base unit.
Keep in mind, a SUNRNR'S battery energy storage is 2000+ W/hr, not to be confused with its inverter electrical output of 3500W continuous and 7000W surge. The inverter number says it is capable of providing power for a high-load appliance like a 4000W large power tool, while the battery number relates to how long it will run it.
The SUNRNR's absorbed glass matt battery is rated to last 5 years. However, if the battery is abused it will not last that long. Metrosolarmatics and the manufacturer cannot be held liable or responsible for an abused battery. Proper care includes ensuring it is charged once every couple of months, even if your generator is not used on a regular basis. Abuse includes dropping, shorting, overloading, leaving battery uncharged for prolonged periods, continually drawing power from the battery without charge, or leaving the inverter switched on while the unit is unattended. The standard 1 year warranty for the SUNRNR covers defects and workmanship. See tips on caring for your solar lights and equipment in the FAQs section.
To determine the load your appliances will put on a SUNRNR go to our Watts Calculator Worksheet. For those currently on the grid, figure out what appliances you want to take off-grid and thereby save a bunch of money on your utility bill.
This is one of a growing number of solar devices that use the term "solar generator" although a SUNRNR may be recharged by other sources including micro-hydro and battery charger. We are frequently asked how our units are different or even better than others. The following is an attempt to offer a fair comparison to other products and our SPECIFICATIONS page is a useful reference when doing your own. For a more comprehensive assessment, you may also wish to visit Solar Stik where they admirably list links to other solar generator styles, sizes, systems, etc. and provide several educational pages discussing the benefits of solar over gas generators. Check it out!!
Buyer Beware If it is difficult to document specifications or numbers seem too good to be true, beware. Two most notable bottom lines are inverter watt capability (what equipment you can run) and battery watt-hours stored (how long you can run it). Portability Several products have great portability, nicely designed for a handcart. However, with today's rechargeable battery/energy storage technology, power available is directly proportional to weight, which means if it's really easy to move, it probably won't run much for long. Some are terrific trailer-hauled versions - again, application. Inverter The SUNRNR is designed so that the inverter can ask the battery to start a 7000W load, handle it, and run it after starting, at 3500W continuous. This is power tool, microwave, welder, compressor, air conditioner, washing machine territory. (See the Energy watts/amps Guide BACK TO TOP) In comparison, 1800W (continuous) is the most offered by others- good power for computers, lights, fans, and smaller appliances. Battery/Energy Storage The AGM (absorbed glass mat) battery we use is rated at 245 amp-hours ideally (245 amp-hr x 12 V DC = 2940 W/hr), realistically 2000+W/hr stored. Other generators range from 50-200 amp-hours (400-1600 Whr realistically). SUNRNR offers the best value in $/kWhr (see below). Cost per kWhr Based on cost per kWhr stored, a SUNRNR averages $1.67 while others range from $2.80 to $4.50. Options
Solar/wind turbine/microhydro chargeable- increases versatility and flexibility
Power module- unlimited numbers can be connected to increase battery storage and power generation
Lithium-Ion battery option- lightweight, 20 year rechargeable life