Power and light

Power and light when the grid goes down

by Joe Miller

Start with flashlights and batteries, add a power bank and a battery power station, and if you need it, a generator or solar.

Power, from simple to seriousFlashlightsHeadlamps andlanterns, LEDPower banksCharge phones andradiosPower stationA big battery forlights, fans, CPAPGeneratorFridge, freezer,well pumpSolarRecharges everysunny day
Each step costs more and does more.
What a portable generator can run (approximate running watts)Refrigeratorabout 700 W (more to start)Chest freezerabout 500 WWell pump (1/2 hp)about 1,000 W (2,000+ to start)Furnace fanabout 700 WWindow ACabout 1,200 WLights and phone chargersabout 200 WMicrowaveabout 1,000 W
Add up what you'll run at once; motors need 2 to 3 times their running watts to start.
Generator safetyDoDon'tRun it outside, at least 20 feet from doors andwindowsPoint the exhaust away from the houseUse heavy outdoor extension cords, or a transferswitch put in by an electricianStore gasoline with stabilizer and rotate itLet it cool before refuelingNever in a garage, basement or porch, even with thedoor openNever plug it into a wall outlet ("backfeeding" cankill line workers)Never run it in the rain without a cover made for itNever store gas in the houseNever run it while you sleep without a CO alarm inside
Most generator deaths are carbon monoxide.
Light that lastsLED headlampHands free; one perpersonLED lanternLights a whole roomLithium AA20-year shelf lifeSolar lightsGarden lights inside atnightCandlesLast resort: fire riskOne light for every person, and spare batteries for every light.
Light keeps people calm.
Full off-grid solar systems explained at solarcritical.com, and homemade batteries and battery care at makebattery.com.
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Sources

Checked November 11, 2026.