I'm setting up my truck camper to operate on Makita 18v batteries, which I can recharge while driving. However, I'm concerned about natural disasters like hurricanes and ice storms here in Texas. I don't want to rely on my truck to charge small batteries, so I'm looking for a compact solar solution to power things like cell phones, flashlights, and backup battery packs for emergencies. I'd prefer to buy a reliable off-the-shelf product or build one myself that lasts for years, not just a few cycles, like some cheaper options I've seen. Any recommendations?
3 Answers
Sorry to hear about the natural disasters hitting Texas! I would recommend looking into options like the EcoFlow Delta Pro, which offers about 3.6 kWh of power and can be charged via solar. Other brands like Anker, Jackery, and Bluetti also have solid models that can handle a good amount of power and are easy to use. They all provide some good charging output for devices like phones and flashlights.
For a straightforward approach, brands like Anker, Bluetti, and Jackery are offering warranties around 3-5 years now. For a more DIY setup, you could look at using a Victron 75/15 solar charge controller, a 200W solar panel, a LiFePO4 battery, and a small inverter. If you're just looking to charge USB devices, a 30W rated folding solar panel that outputs about 18W can recharge 10,000 mAh battery packs in a few hours for around $30-$40. While it might not last a decade, it's a budget-friendly option to consider.
The trick with longevity is a bit tricky. Most all-in-one solar stations are designed for shorter use periods. If you want something more durable, consider building a system with individual components. You could use a 12V or 24V setup with interchangeable parts. This way, if one component fails, you can easily replace it without losing the whole system. It's worth thinking about whether you want a simple, all-in-one solution or something more robust that can be easily repaired.