Though it happens rarely, a power outage can put a very substantial crimp into your home’s livability, and/or business’s operations. A backup power source, such as the Generac GB1000 Portable Power Station, could save you from the frustration, inconvenience, lost productivity, and even potential health risks associated with lack of power. Generac specializes in backup power generators and portable power stations. While there are several portable power station brands out there, Generac is considered a leader in this market. They offer a wide range of portable electricity, and also heat-generator products for the residential and commercial user. Do you need a portable power source? Is this the right one for you? Let’s take a look.
Generac GB1000 Overview
Portable, rechargeable power sources have come a long way. The Generac GB1000 (Model #G0080250) is no exception. It is fairly compact at 14.1L x 10.2W x 12H (in.) and weighs 29 lbs. The Lithium-Ion NMC battery has a 1086Wh capacity. It can be recharged in multiple ways and has a wide variety of output receptacles for electronics, appliances, and equipment.
Generac GB1000 Features
The GB1000 Model #G0080250 features the following:
- 4.7″ multi-color display
- USB-A (X2), and 2 USB-C ports (X2)
- NEMA 1-15R AC receptacles (X3)
- 15W wireless charging for compatible devices
- Parallel ports (X2)
- 120VAC / 13.3A, 1600W/3200W surge
- Lightweight, yet robust construction
- Suitable for indoor (emission-free) and outdoor use
- Lithium-ion NMC battery
- Effective temperature range for charging: 32 F to 104 F
- Effective temperature range for discharge: -4 F to 104 F
- Three-year warranty, featuring:
- 1-year limited parts and labor
- 3-year limited parts (if end user is a non-commercial consumer)
Given the variety of lighting conditions one may encounter indoors and out, a quality display can be make-or-break. The Generac GB1000 has a bright, large 4.7″ multi-color display. You can easily view and monitor charge level, remaining runtime, and other important information. The display can also be turned off.
Output options are ample. This model features a 12V car port, two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, two parallel ports, and three standard NEMA 1-15R AC receptacles. And I really like that you can turn off the AC or DC power when not needed.
The top of the Generac GB1000 has a 15W wireless charging pad.
Another notable feature on the Generac GB1000 Portable Power Station is the inverter. For those who may be unfamiliar, an inverter essentially matches generator output to meet electrical load requirements over time. This is important as different devices powered by a generator will demand different amounts of power, and so, will deplete a generator’s electrical storage capacity at different rates. Generators without the inverter feature essentially run on “high gear” all the time to make sure even heavy-duty equipment is not starved for electricity. The inverter add-on feature senses the electrical load needed and adjusts the power station’s output accordingly. When not in use to power high-load equipment, the Generac GB1000 will demonstrate that the difference in efficiency and storage capacity adds up.
Side charging ports give spatial versatility and allow users to position the portable power station for optimal accessibility.
Weighing in at about 30lbs., it has a large ergonomic handle to make it easy to grab and carry.
The Generac GB1000 features a convenient storage pouch for wires, cables, and other accessories you may want to bring along.
The GB1000 can be recharged in several ways. Here is what Generac offers on their website: “Recharge from 0-80% in 2.1 hours from a wall outlet (GB1000). Also supports input from solar, car, and generator. Combine charging methods for even faster recharge times.”
Though it is not a unique capability to be able to charge a device through solar power, it is certainly convenient. As you might imagine, outdoor activities such as camping or hunting could be enhanced significantly if you didn’t have to worry about rationing the charge you stored at home. So an investment in compatible solar panels could be worth it. Solar panels are sold separately, but the GB1000 has a built-in MPPT controller so no additional controller accessory is needed.
When considering a portable power source it is also important to know the limitations. Operation and/or storage at very high/low temperatures may affect performance. As mentioned earlier, the Generac GB1000 Portable Power Station functions best between -4 F and 104 F. A Minnesota arctic blast or a Death Valley heat dome could overwhelm the device.
Generac GB1000 Price
This power station can be purchased for $999.00 on Amazon. This is competitively priced compared to comparable models. Charging-compatible solar panels, charge enhancers, extra wiring, cables, and other accessories will cost extra. And not every accessory or enhancement will be necessary for the average homeowner.
Generac GB1000 Final Thoughts
This model is easy to work with and offers a variety of features, ports, settings, and possible accessories. There are so many features I really like. Fast Solar Charging, the wireless charging pad, 1086Wh capacity, the wide variety of output receptacles, and multiple recharging options, to name a few. And I think one of the single greatest advantages offered by a battery-powered portable power source compared to their gas-powered cousins is that you can safely run them indoors. I feel the Generac GB1000 is well-built, well-designed, and easy to use. So if you are in the market for a portable power station, this is definitely one to consider.
