How to Use a Portable Power Station During a Power Outage

This guide is based on manufacturer specifications, published information and buyer feedback. We do not claim hands-on testing. Always follow the instructions that come with your own equipment.

A portable power station is easy to use, but a little preparation makes it much more useful when the lights go out. Here is a practical checklist.

Before an outage

1. Charge it. Keep the unit charged to full. Many makers advise storing batteries partly charged and topping up regularly, so check your manual.
2. Make a plan. List devices to power and how long. Use our runtime calculator.
3. Gather cables. Phone chargers, extension cords rated for the load and any solar cables.
4. Know where it is. Keep it in an easy-to-reach place, away from moisture and heat.

During an outage

1. Place the unit on a flat, dry, ventilated surface indoors or in a covered area. Do not cover vents.
2. Plug in the most important devices first: communication, lights, medical equipment (see below) and the router.
3. Use USB ports for small devices where possible to save energy.
4. Turn the AC output off when not in use.
5. Watch the battery level and plan recharging, with solar during the day if you have panels.

Medical equipment

If you rely on medical equipment such as a CPAP or oxygen concentrator, follow the equipment maker’s guidance and speak with your healthcare provider about backup power. We do not give medical advice.

Safety

• Never run a gas generator indoors or in an attached garage. Power stations produce no exhaust, but follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
• Do not back-feed your home through a wall outlet.
• Keep the unit away from water, heat and children.

After the outage

Recharge the unit and restock cables. Review what worked and what to change next time. For hurricane planning, see our hurricane power outage checklist.

Frequently asked questions

Can I charge my power station from my car?

Many units have a car (12V) charging input. It is slower than a wall outlet, so check the manual.

Can I use it while it is charging?

Many models support pass-through charging, but check the manual because it can affect battery life or may not be supported on all models.

Medical equipment: if you plan to run a CPAP machine or other medical equipment from a portable power station, check the device manufacturer’s guidance first and keep a backup plan. A power station is not a medical-grade or guaranteed uninterruptible power source, and this guide is not medical advice.

About the author