Independent planning tools for calmer outage prepClear assumptions. Your numbers stay in your browser.
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Free planning calculator

How long could your battery last?

Choose the devices you need, set the battery details, and get a runtime estimate you can adjust. Your entries stay in this browser.

Build your outage load

Start with the appliances and electronics you plan to power at the same time.

Wh
W
Usable battery × inverter efficiency An editable planning assumption; use product-specific figures if available.
50%77%100%
Common device examples Illustrative average watts only. Check labels, manuals, or a plug-in power meter.
How to use this estimate

Three checks before you choose a power station.

1. Check the device’s real demand

Common appliance wattages are examples, not universal specifications. Refrigerator demand varies by model and operating conditions, and its compressor needs extra power when starting. Use a measured average where you can, and check the battery’s surge rating.

2. Match both capacity and output

Watt-hours describe energy capacity; watts describe how much power can be delivered at once. A battery can have enough energy for a long runtime but still lack the AC output or surge capacity to start a motor.

3. Plan for safe use

Follow the power station maker’s charging, temperature, ventilation and storage instructions. If using a fuel generator, never operate it indoors or in an enclosed space. Read CDC carbon monoxide guidance and the generator manual.

Method in one line: runtime (hours) = battery watt-hours × combined usable/efficiency factor ÷ selected average watts. This simplified model assumes a steady load.

For a deeper explanation, read our portable power station sizing guide and how we estimate.