What size power station do I need?
Add what you want to run, how many, and for how many hours. Wattages are typical values from published generator-maker charts; use your appliance's label if you have it.
| Item | Qty | Running W | Starting W | Hours | Wh |
|---|
How we calculate: Wh needed = sum of running watts x quantity x hours. Recommended capacity = Wh needed / 0.8, a 20% buffer for inverter losses and the charge you shouldn't run to zero. Inverter output = everything running at once x 1.2 headroom. Surge = everything running at once + the single biggest extra starting load. These are estimates for planning, not a guarantee.
Models that fit
Portable power station spec table
Click a column header to sort. Blank = not stated by the manufacturer. Prices are the manufacturer's standalone price on Nov 9, 2026.
| Model | Capacity (Wh) | Output (W) | Surge (W) | Chemistry | Weight (lb) | Price (USD) | Wh per $ | Source | Buy |
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Buy links are placeholders (marked "PLACEHOLDER") until affiliate programs approve the site.
FAQ
How many watt-hours do I need to run a refrigerator?
Honda's wattage guide lists an Energy Star refrigerator at about 192 running watts and 1,200 starting watts. Because the compressor cycles, actual daily use is usually well below 192 W x 24 h; the kWh/year figure on your EnergyGuide label divided by 365 gives a better daily number. The inverter has to handle the 1,200 W start-up surge.
Why do you add 20% to the watt-hours?
Power stations lose some energy converting battery DC to household AC, and you shouldn't plan on draining the battery to zero. Dividing by 0.8 is our planning buffer, not a manufacturer figure. Check a model's own runtime claims where it publishes them.
What is the difference between running watts and surge watts?
Running (continuous) watts are what a device draws once it is going. Motors and compressors, like fridges, sump pumps and furnace blowers, briefly draw several times more to start. The power station's surge or peak rating has to cover that start-up spike.
Can a power station run my furnace or sump pump?
Often yes, if the inverter and surge ratings cover it, but many furnace blowers and some sump pumps are hard-wired. Connecting a hard-wired load needs a transfer switch, inlet box or panel installed by a licensed electrician. We don't give wiring advice.