What’s Your Go-To Backup Power Solution?

[CrimsonWren145]

After being without power for almost a week during the last big ice storm, I realized my little gas generator just wasn’t cutting it. Between fuel storage concerns and the noise, it didn’t feel sustainable long-term. I’ve been looking into solar generators and battery banks lately (thinking Goal Zero or Bluetti?), but I’m not sure they’re practical for running essentials like a fridge or a medical

 

[StarlitNavigator]

Solar generators really are a game changer for peace and quiet, and you don’t have to worry about fuel going bad or storing dangerous cans in the garage. I went with a mid-range Bluetti plus a couple big panels, and it keeps my fridge, CPAP, and a few small lights running for 2-3 days if I’m careful. Cloudy stretches can make recharging tricky, though. Anyone else found a good workaround for limited sun in winter?

 

[GarnetDusk]

Been using solar with a deep cycle battery bank—works fine for basics, but winter sun can be rough. Anyone tried supplementing with a pedal or hand crank generator during cloudy stretches?

 

[OrbitJazz21]

Tried a hand crank once—honestly, it’s barely enough for a radio, let alone a fridge. Anyone had luck pairing wind turbines with solar for those cloudy days?

 

[AquaFern1028]

Cloudy days and long winter weeks really do put a damper on solar setups. I ran into the same frustration a couple years back—just when you need backup most, the panels aren’t pulling enough juice. Ended up switching things up by adding a second battery (lithium iron phosphate, lighter and more cycles) and a modest

 

[BlueMarigold]

Hand cranks are just too slow for anything bigger than a flashlight, honestly. Maybe a small wind turbine could help—has anyone had issues with noise or maintenance on those?

 

[PrepperLinda65]

Wind’s great when it’s steady, but I’ve found small turbines can be noisy and fussy in storms. Has anyone managed to keep them running smoothly through winter freezes?