Lazy Daze Owners' Group

This mid week camping trip on the Mid Coast of Oregon was a chance I took testing my new
Jackery 1000 (https://www.jackery.com/collections/portable-power-stations/products/explorer-1000-portable-power-station).  My plan was to test the power draw and the practical application of a
3Qt Instat Pop (https://instantpot.com/portfolio-item/ultra/#specifications).  Over the years I have developed a taste for food.  The better it tastes the better I like it.

In any case I was happily surprised at the ease and speed of cooking using the pressure cooker.    The main power draw  was during the raise in pressure (6 min in fact).  Once the Instant Pot got to pressure the power use dropped quickly.  The Jackery has in the range of 68 Amp/Hour capacity.    After cooking it was only down 10 or so amps.    The next morning I used my homemade solar setup (100 Watt Solar with MPPT) - it took less then 2 hours to fully recharge.  BTW I was in full direct sunlight.  <smile> not normal by any means in the fall of the PNW. 

More testing will be coming in the following months.

glen

Hi Glen,
Thanks for the info on the Jackery, sounds like a great dry camping option to have— and it will power an Instant Pot!
I have the 6 qt Pot, at 1000 watts, which would be right at the max capacity, so wondering if it would work.  You have the 3 qt so less wattage, right?    I already have a Renogy solar suitcase I could use to top it off, assume it’s compatible.
 And what a great solution to a quick Keurig cup of coffee without having to fire up generator 😊
  Look forward to future updates!
Daryl

Two issues
1. The Jackery 1000 uses a Anderson type connection input.     You will need this conversion kit to connect the Renergy panels. 
INSTABOOST 10AWG Solar Panel Cable Kit (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GC8HVRC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

1a.  Jackery only allows about 140 watts of maximum charge.   Other solar generators allow a faster charge time. 


2. I used a 3 Qt Instant Pot because of power consumption.   I project at least 3 maybe 4 uses before complete discharge.   One can never predict having all the sun a person needs all the time.    I assume 50% solar coverage at any given time.  A 6 Qt Instant Pot should work fine. 

Glen, just checking to verify that I understand how this power station is charged not using portable solar panels and the Anderson connectors (which show as "unavailable" from the page linked, but maybe from another source?).

Per the information on the web page, it fully charges in 7.5 hours when connected to a generator, and in 7 hours when connected to AC. Is the claims accurate in your experience, or have you used only the solar panels and connectors to re-charge the power station?

Thanks for any information.

Glen, just checking to verify that I understand how this power station is charged not using portable solar panels and the Anderson connectors (which show as "unavailable" from the page linked, but maybe from another source?).

Per the information on the web page, it fully charges in 7.5 hours when connected to a generator, and in 7 hours when connected to AC. Is the claims accurate in your experience, or have you used only the solar panels and connectors to re-charge the power station?

Thanks for any information.

The Jackery 1000 has two inputs for recharging.   One is for the 120 AC.   Jackery uses a power brick that plugs into the AC side.  This input takes 24V at 8 or so amps.   The other input is a Anderson connection.  This is for solar panel charging.    Solar companies use different types of connectors.  MC4 is used on Renergy and Rich (the panel I use).   There are many sellers of 'conversion' connectors.  I pick this company based on wire size.  <smile> didn't want to lose any re-charge 'watts'.

Math says a fully discharged Jackery1000 will take tad over 7 hours to fully top off.   1000/140= 7.14    140 is the max charging rate.   The charge rate is limited because of the type of Lithium they use.     Other companies use different type of Lithium so they have a higher C rate (https://batteryuniversity.com/learn/article/what_is_the_c_rate).

I only have one 100 watt solar panel so I will never be able to charge at the highest C rate.    This winter I fully intend to use this setup to the max.   If all goes well we'll be camping in the desert for two to three months.  

glen

Thanks for that information, Glen. And, for the link to "C rate"; this is good information on battery charge and discharge rates that many LDers might find very useful!  :)

Thanks for all the info Glen!
  Seriously considering getting this ... at $1,000 though, Just curious what the life expectancy of the battery might be? 
Daryl

Thanks for all the info Glen!
  Seriously considering getting this ... at $1,000 though, Just curious what the life expectancy of the battery might be? 
Daryl

What ya get when buying this bad boy
1. MMPT controller
2. 46AH  Lithium Battery*
3. Pure Sign Wave Inverter
4. about 500 cycles*

*under Lithium you get to use 90% of the 46AH unlike lead acid based battery at 50%
* keeping in mind lithium batteries can be discharge to 10 % or so without harm.   After 500 cycles this battery will be at 80% so the math says I believe around 900 to 1000 cycles if used under normal conditions.  

So yes $1000 is a tad hard of the wallet but .......

glen

Good to know ... say if it’s charged once a week, 52 weeks a year, that would be several years, in theory at least— not bad!

ok, Glen, you convinced me!   I ordered it on Amazon, will get here before I leave for a week of dry camping at Morro Bay over Thanksgiving.  Looking forward to having that extra energy option when not hooked up, which I do a lot of.  (especially keeping all the tech gadgets charged when working from the road)  1,000 watt pure sine wave inverter, yay!
Daryl
  Hope to see you again in Quartzite :-)

Just a reminder for those looking to purchase a portable power station. You may be able to get a discount/ rebate through your local utility company. For instance:

Southern California Edison (https://marketplace.sce.com/portable-power-stations/)

ok, Glen, you convinced me!  I ordered it on Amazon, will get here before I leave for a week of dry camping at Morro Bay over Thanksgiving.  Looking forward to having that extra energy option when not hooked up, which I do a lot of.  (especially keeping all the tech gadgets charged when working from the road)  1,000 watt pure sine wave inverter, yay!

After worrying so much two weeks ago about having enough battery to complete your workday, having a reserve power supply, with enough reserve capacity to get through a day's use is a good solution.
Consider installing a few solar panels so you don't need to run the generator to charge the house battery and your new Jackery..

Larry

Hey Larry,
Yes, solar panels on the roof would be perfect complement to the Jackery so will have to maybe start looking into that!😊
  In the meantime, I do have a Renogy portable solar suitcase (also bought the adapter cable to connect MC4 to the Jackery’s Anderson input).   Also while driving, I can plug it into the cab’s cig lighter.   And of course when I have elect hookups, will be charging it then too.   And if it runs out of juice, really no big deal — I don’t NEED it, just a little extra convenience & backup.
   I’ll be able to make a K cup coffee without running the generator at Morro Bay, yay! ☕️
   (Added bonus: since I’ll be using it directly for work as a backup generator, it’s a business equipment deduction! 😉)

A primer on portable power stations from CR:

5 Things to Know About Portable Power Stations - Consumer Reports (https://www.consumerreports.org/portable-power-stations/portable-power-stations-things-to-know-battery-inverter-generators/)

Thanks Greg!

Update on first test use of my new Jackery 1000— it’s great & going to be a game-changer for me when dry camping!
  I ran my 6 qt Instant Pot (rated @1000 watts) pressure cooking for 6 minutes (a typical meal run time) and the display on the Jackery never needed to output above 900 watts, stayed around 850-880 range, then dropped down to 3 watts after pressure had built for most of the remaining cook time.  Total battery percentage used was about 10%.
  Next I made a K Cup of coffee, drawing about 700+ watts for couple minutes, down another 5%.
  Started at 100% fully charged battery, I had charged my electric razor, iPad, made a “meal” in Instant Pot, and a cup of K pod coffee and have 84% battery remaining on the Jackery. 
  Nice I can also use the toaster, my small 5-cup coffee pot, charge computers, etc., .... wow, I like this gadget!
I got the adapters for my portable  Renogy solar panels, which won’t charge it fast by any means but will help a little topping it off I think..  And I like you can plug it into 12 v port while driving to charge also.  (And of course when you elect hookups, just plug it into AC]
  Thanks again, Glen, for your post about this!
Daryl. 

Daryl,

These small lithium battery packs can add a lot of convienance to RV living. One thing I enjoy about our solar upgrade is the ability to use my burr grinder for my morning coffee.

Hand grinding beans for a cup used to take about four minutes. Now the task takes less than a minute. Sooo nice.

I’ve asked Santa for a Toaster Oven for Christmas.🎅🏻 Is that too much to ask for?

Kent

Ditto on the usefulness of these small solar generators! I have a Goal Zero 1000(GZ) that I purchased a couple years ago @ Costco that I use all the time for charging electronics, running small appliances, etc.  The GZ is significantly heavier @  43 lbs., than the  Jackery @ 22  lbs.  The GZ is also larger. As a result, the GZ is definitely not as easy to move around and position for convenient use as the Jackery. This led me explore stationary options so I could use some kitchen appliances via the standard 110v receptacle in my kitchen area. What I do is use a 30 amp to 15 amp dog bone to connect my coach 30 amp inlet to one of the 110v outlets on my GZ. This way, I have  power to the 110 outlets inside my coach to run my small coffeemaker, etc. I can also run my microwave if I reduce the power setting to 70% so I don't exceed the maximum allowable amp draw on the GZ 110v outlets (12.5 amps). The GZ is located under my dinette table against the outside wall so it is at all times stationary and out of the way. I do have to pay attention to the fact that the GZ power flows through the house power supply/converter which draws approximately 120 watts of continuous power so when I do not need the coach outlets I just turn the inverter off on my GZ if I am not using the other 11Ov outlet for some other purpose. If I am using that outlet then I just turn off the main on the house power supply/converter unit. I also use 200w Renogy portable panels for charging. Thank you for all the great info. on the Insta Pot. I may make a purchase:)

Interesting setup!   Never considered that the whole rig could be plugged in to the inverter, then be able to use all the outlets & micro (at lower power setting)     I’m going to try a small, 600 watt micro, no bells, whistles, displays or clock, just simple & small to use for quick reheats with the Jackery.  Amazon.com: Commercial Chef CHM660B Countertop Small Microwave Oven, 0.6... (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BGTO1WC/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_s7lSFbKPM7A6M)
  
Daryl

When choosing a microwave oven, bear in mind that the rated power is in output watts, but the input power is generally about one and a half times that. In other words, a "600 W" microwave will typically require 900 W of power.

Also, at least with all the microwave ovens I've seen, setting it to half power does not mean it uses half as many watts. Rather, it means it uses full power for half the time, switching its magnetron on and off at intervals. In other words, you can't run a 1,000 W-rated (1,500 watts actual draw) microwave on half power and expect it to use only 750 watts. It will use 1,500 watts and switch its output on and off for an average of half power.

Update on first test use of my new Jackery 1000— it’s great & going to be a game-changer for me when dry camping!
  I ran my 6 qt Instant Pot (rated @1000 watts) pressure cooking for 6 minutes (a typical meal run time) and the display on the Jackery never needed to output above 900 watts, stayed around 850-880 range, then dropped down to 3 watts after pressure had built for most of the remaining cook time.  Total battery percentage used was about 10%.
  Next I made a K Cup of coffee, drawing about 700+ watts for couple minutes, down another 5%.
  Started at 100% fully charged battery, I had charged my electric razor, iPad, made a “meal” in Instant Pot, and a cup of K pod coffee and have 84% battery remaining on the Jackery. 
  Nice I can also use the toaster, my small 5-cup coffee pot, charge computers, etc., .... wow, I like this gadget!
I got the adapters for my portable  Renogy solar panels, which won’t charge it fast by any means but will help a little topping it off I think..  And I like you can plug it into 12 v port while driving to charge also.  (And of course when you elect hookups, just plug it into AC]

Might have to invest in one of these portable power stations.  Just got notified by our utility company that we may lose power in the next 1-4 hours (PSPS).
Greg- living the California dream.

Now is a great time to get one..
 15% off the Jackery 1000 and the solar panels. 
I just happened to check amazon earlier today and saw the $150 discount as part of Jackerys anniversary sale, today through Wed only!     Had I known about the upcoming sale, I would have waited, damn! 🤦‍♀️
Daryl

Hi Darryl,

Just wanted to confirm Andy's guidance when it comes to microwave power usage. His comments got me to thinking so I connected my solar generator today and actually watched the wattage readings on the generator display in real time  as I used my small 700 watt Sharp at both full and reduced power.  At full power the unit was drawing a continuous 1025 watts. At reduced power (70%) it cycled between the full 1025 watts and 695 watts during the timer period. Hopefully your 600 watt unit will keep you within  the Jackery inverter spec's(1000 watt?). 
P.S. Don't forget to unplug the generator charger from  the 110av wall outlet before you try this setup. If you don't the generator will begin to charge itself!  (Yup, been there, done that :D 

Hope this setup works for you Darryl and kudos to Andy for the best of technical advice as usual.

Matt

When choosing a microwave oven, bear in mind that the rated power is in output watts, but the input power is generally about one and a half times that. In other words, a "600 W" microwave will typically require 900 W of power.

Thanks for that info Andy! 
Yeah, I read that too in some of the Amazon review about this 600 w drawing closer to 900, but worked fine with a 1000 inverter, like the Jackery has— roughly the same draw as the Instant Pot (6 qt)
Daryl

P.S. Don't forget to unplug the generator charger from  the 110av wall outlet before you try this setup. If you don't the generator will begin to charge itself!  (Yup, been there, done that :D 
Hope this setup works for you Darryl and kudos to Andy for the best of technical advice as usual.

Thanks for the tip, Matt!
    Great info as always on the forum! 👍
Daryl

"worked fine with a 1000 inverter"

I'm guessing that the Jackery 1000 model, although rated for 1,000 watts continuous output, can handle a higher draw for a short time.

2000 W surge it claims.

"worked fine with a 1000 inverter"

I'm guessing that the Jackery 1000 model, although rated for 1,000 watts continuous output, can handle a higher draw for a short time.

Yes, as keith wrote, It has 2000 surge capacity, although when I was testing it out, the Jackery never output over 900 w.  I’m curious to see how much the 600 w micro will draw when it arrives tomorrow!
Daryl

I'm betting you will come in somewhere between 850 and 950  so hoping  you should be good. The only other variable that I can think of that may have an effect is the rated amps for that outlet on the Jackery. For example,  I have a couple plug in power tools that run well within the wattage spec's of my GZ 1000 (1500w continuous, 3000w surge)  but will not work because they are rated at 15 amps which trips the 12.5 amp circuit breaker that is built into the outlets. This too, I learned the hard way, and as a result always try to check the amp rating on any tool or appliance I plug into the outlets. Unfortunately, this information is not always easy to find. I looked at the Jackery spec's and did not find this info. listed. Perhaps I missed it or a call to Jackery tech support or another forum member's knowledge would be a source for this info.

Matt

According to Jackery 1000 spec sheet the 110 output is 110v 9.09A 1000W continuous 2000W surge peak


glen

Isn't it  a bit misleading when both Goal Zero and Jackery advertise a surge level on their inverters that the installed circuit breakers can't handle or is there  some type of brief override in surge range?

Hi Matt;  Surge is a relative thing. The circuit breakers generally have a medium delay. Depending on the amount of extra current that is over their rating. A 5% overload may not trip at all. 20% overload may give you 5 minutes leeway. 30% you might get 1 minute. It is a heat build up in the breaker. After the five minutes overload when it does trip, you may not be able to reset it for 10 minutes. If you do, and persist with the overload, it may go off in two minutes, and not reset (not be able to reset it) for 25 minutes.
   The electronic surge from 1000 Watts to 2000 Watts can be rated for real short durations. Such as when a motor is first started, your surge rating may only be good for a few seconds. Enough to start a motor but not to run it at an overload current. It might be a function of how hot the controlling electronics get, or are allowed to be before the system shuts down. Cold weather can prolong the surge rating, Shorter times in hot weather.
   It can also be inconsistent timewise, and repeated use at the limits may shorten the life of some components.   RonB

Hey Ron,

Thanks for the succinct and highly informative info. on the topic of inverter surge.  Much appreciated. Matt

New Solar Generator Takes Portable Power To The Next Level (https://rvlife.com/new-solar-generator/)

Another Jackery review from The Camper Report.

Chris

Just a note: that "review" was sponsored by Jackery. (And hey, check out that photo of their solar panel--it's charging a phone and a tablet while lying face down! Pretty cool trick. ;-)

I agree with the article's subhead that reads, "Stay off-grid longer in your camper van." These powerpacks are great for that application. For a fully outfitted class C, they don't make as much sense. But maybe if you take long excursions in your toad, one of the smaller models would be handy? Just remember that lithium batteries hate to be too hot, so don't leave it in the car on a hot day, any more than you would leave your phone or tablet.

Yes, as keith wrote, It has 2000 surge capacity, although when I was testing it out, the Jackery never output over 900 w.  I’m curious to see how much the 600 w micro will draw when it arrives tomorrow!
Daryl

I ran microwave in my 2006 RK with the Jackery 1000 a couple of days ago.  The display indicated 1500 watts.  Seemed a little high.  I assumed the original microwave in my rig was at most 1200 watts.  It ran for about 20 seconds and then I turned it off.  Not going to use that option going forward.  I stuck the Jackery under the rear seat and wired in an outlet to plug stuff inside.  It's a cheap way to get 1000 watt inverter into the rig.  Works pretty good. 

"I ran microwave in my 2006 RK with the Jackery 1000 a couple of days ago.  The display indicated 1500 watts.  Seemed a little high."

Bear in mind that the power consumption of a microwave oven is typically about 50% more than its rated power output--the number on the shipping box. So a "1,000 watt" microwave is likely to draw 1,500 watts in use. Similarly, Daryl's 600 W unit will probably draw about 900 W.

"It's a cheap way to get 1000 watt inverter into the rig."

Since a 1,000 W pure sine wave inverter (https://www.amazon.com/s?k=1000w+inverter+pure+sine+wave&crid=163GDNRZZVT81&sprefix=1000+w+inverter%2Caps%2C303&ref=nb_sb_ss_sc_3_15) sells for $150-$200, while a Jackery 1000 powerpack sells for $999, it doesn't look cheap on the face of it. However, the Jackery 1000 doesn't require a connection to your house batteries, with the necessary heavy-duty wiring, fusing, etc. So it is a way to get a 1,000 W inverter without either doing that work yourself or paying to have it done. :-)

I'm a happy user of the Jackery 1000. 

But ...  today I would not buy it.   The technology is dated.  The newer 1500 and 2000 are a better buy.   Higher amp/hours and faster charge times.  Also longer lasting. 

As an aside Jackery pays for reviews on amazon.   I know 'casue they 'paid' me.  

glen 

I'm a happy user of the Jackery 1000. 

But ...  today I would not buy it.   The technology is dated.  The newer 1500 and 2000 are a better buy.   Higher amp/hours and faster charge times.  Also longer lasting. 

As an aside Jackery pays for reviews on amazon.   I know 'casue they 'paid' me.  

glen 

Yep, just took a look at the new Jackery 1500.  That is a whopping price too - $2700

Bob

"It's a cheap way to get 1000 watt inverter into the rig."

Since a 1,000 W pure sine wave inverter (https://www.amazon.com/s?k=1000w+inverter+pure+sine+wave&crid=163GDNRZZVT81&sprefix=1000+w+inverter%2Caps%2C303&ref=nb_sb_ss_sc_3_15) sells for $150-$200, while a Jackery 1000 powerpack sells for $999, it doesn't look cheap on the face of it. However, the Jackery 1000 doesn't require a connection to your house batteries, with the necessary heavy-duty wiring, fusing, etc. So it is a way to get a 1,000 W inverter without either doing that work yourself or paying to have it done. :-)

True.  I was thinking more convenience than price.  I thought of getting an inverter and wiring it in to the rig's system.  That wouldn't have been too difficult.  I still might do that in the future.  My current solar would have to be expanded to account for the additional battery draw/use(its only 200watts and two T105s).  However, the Jackery has a couple of advantages I like, namely its portability and the fact that it doesn't draw on the rig's batteries.  It's light enough to move around the campsite where needed and when it needs topping off just plug in the solar panel. It fits under the dinette seat out of site.  The one negative is I have to run an extension power strip when using. 

Bob

Sorry, $2700 does include a couple of solar panels.

Right, you're paying for convenience... and portability, if you need that. For some, it may be worth it.

About those Jackery solar panels: as I've mentioned elsewhere, they are not waterproof. You'll need to bring them inside at night, when leaving the rig, and anytime rain or snow are possible. Also, they cost $299 for each 100 watt panel. For about the same money, you can buy three 100 W Renogy panels (https://www.amazon.com/Renogy-Monocrystalline-Solar-Compact-Design/dp/B07GF5JY35/ref=sr_1_20?dchild=1&keywords=renogy+200+watt&qid=1617469728&sr=8-20)... or for convenience, a folding 200 W "solar suitcase." (https://www.amazon.com/Renogy-200-Watt-Monocrystalline-Controller/dp/B07RFQVB9M/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=renogy+200+watt&qid=1617469728&sr=8-4) Either one is completely weatherproof.

In short, if buying one of the Jackery powerpacks, it's best to get your solar panels elsewhere.

Sorry, $2700 does include a couple of solar panels.

A  portable power pack can be useful for outside use or for a backup to an important device. Daryl sometimes works out of his LD and need a backup battery for his computer system, he bought a Jackery after a close call at Morro Bay when his house battery was low and he had an afternoon job that operated in real-time, a power failure would have been devastating and resulted in loss of income and reputation, he is a perfect candidate for a Jackery
If you are handy, $2700 will buy two Battle-born lithium batteries and several 100-watt panels and provide your LD with a more powerful 12-volt system.
How a portable lithium power pack will be used determines if it is worth the expense.

Larry

If anyone is interested in a thorough, detailed independent test of the various battery types and chemistry, I recommend this:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iy3hga_P5YY

Steve

p.s. I also found the heated Battleborn batteries of interest...

I look on the Jackery (or Goal Zero, or any equal unit) as a giant portable battery and inverter rolled into one that requires no installation, and can change venues in a flash.  As is often the case in almost any instance in life, the intended use is dependent upon the lifestyle and needs of the owner.

In our Lazy Daze, its purpose would be as a back up for gloomy days, or to provide overnight electricity for my husband's CPAP machine if a Lazy Daze electrical outlet was not conveniently located, or I didn't have, or couldn't use for some reason, an extension cord.  Its portability for outside use is also remarkable.

In the past, we have run the generator to top off the battery bank for the evening's use, when it would have been convenient to just use a Jackery, and then let the panels fill the bank in the morning.

In our Pleasure-Way, we have an extremely puny battery system with no solar, but there is a 2800 Onan to recharge said tiny battery.  The use of a generator does not appeal to us.  I'm looking at a Jackery system, sans panels, to augment this system, mostly for CPAP use.

Our particular camping style is not to boondock in the wild for months on end, so recharging a Jackery at a campground on an overnight stay would fit right into our already-established routine.  We like to be in civilization at least once a week to do laundry, get a good shower, dump garbage, empty/fill tanks, cook with electricity for the coming week, and of course, refill portable battery banks!

On travel days, the Jackery can be plugged into the vehicle for charging. 

As with most things in life, a relaxed attitude, lots of planning, and determined execution can go a long way to making life on the road pretty darned pleasant.  I look at the trade offs of the cost of an item as it pertains to making my life less miserable/more fun.  I call it "what equals what", and that's how I determine the value of an item, notwithstanding only its purchase price.

I did a short calculation about the cost of FREE delivery from Walmart at a C-note a year.  That works out to the cost of gasoline for our Dodge Grand Caravan for me to drive to a Walmart approximately five miles away (RT = ten miles) once a week (<$2. per week for the subscription). 

Seems like an excellent trade off to me as regards my time, cost of fuel, wear and tear on my vehicle, possibilities of parking lot scrapes on the car, or, in these days, being caught in an unpleasant incident of some sort, only to find that some items are not in stock, and another trip is required to complete the acquisition of my intended purchases!

I'm guessing that a like scenario could be established for using (or not) a Jackery, or for using (or not) their solar panels, or the ones from a different supplier.  Only the user can establish the pertinent criteria for optimization and value between the purchase price and how much grief it keeps away from one's everyday living/happiness opportunities.

   Virtual hugs,

   Judie  <-- Sierra Vista, Arizona
   Adventures of Dorrie Anne | Photographing the West (http://dorrieanne.wordpress.com)

   Today:  Celebration Breakfast
            **********************

 

 

"it would have been convenient to just use a Jackery, and then let the panels fill the bank in the morning."

Jackery says that their 1000 model takes 14 hours to charge from a 12V outlet (whether driving or letting solar panels do the work). It's not going to happen in the morning. In fact, a day with 14 hours of power-producing sunshine is pretty hard to come by, outside of the June 21st summer solstice.

"In our Pleasure-Way, we have an extremely puny battery system with no solar, but there is a 2800 Onan to recharge said tiny battery. The use of a generator does not appeal to us. I'm looking at a Jackery system, sans panels, to augment this system, mostly for CPAP use."

That could work, as long as you charge it up (7 hours when plugged into 120 VAC) before leaving home. But with no solar panels, you'd have to drive for 14 hours to fully charge it, and I know you don't like long driving days.

""it would have been convenient to just use a Jackery, and then let the panels fill the bank in the morning."

Jackery says that their 1000 model takes 14 hours to charge from a 12V outlet (whether driving or letting solar panels do the work). It's not going to happen in the morning. In fact, a day with 14 hours of power-producing sunshine is pretty hard to come by, outside of the June 21st summer solstice.

        <<<I should have made it clearer that I meant the 400-watts of solar panels on the roof of our Lazy Daze would be recharging the Lazy Daze batteries during the day.>>>

"In our Pleasure-Way, we have an extremely puny battery system with no solar, but there is a 2800 Onan to recharge said tiny battery. The use of a generator does not appeal to us. I'm looking at a Jackery system, sans panels, to augment this system, mostly for CPAP use."

That could work, as long as you charge it up (7 hours when plugged into 120 VAC) before leaving home. But with no solar panels, you'd have to drive for 14 hours to fully charge it, and I know you don't like long driving days. "

       <<<I'm looking at a Jackery solely as a back-up apparatus and/or convenient access to electricity, topping it off at every opportunity, not as a sole source that is depleted daily.>>>


   Virtual hugs,

   Judie

I have a Goal Zero Yeti 1000 and on occasion I charge it via one of the coach  12 volt outlets when I am running the generator. I don't know what the Jackery spec's are for its charger(s) but mine pushes 135 watts through the outlet which isn't too bad. It is also very important that you disconnect the charger from the outlet after turning the generator off because the 12 volt charger will continue to happily draw power from the house batteries to charge the solar generator batteries. Yup, I ran those house batteries down pretty darn good, but only once:)

I just saw that Jackery are making a 2000 wh capacity power station with a 2200W AC inverter, which they say can be charged in 3 hours with 4 x 200 watt portable solar panels they also make.  The power station is small and comparatively light, and the panels fold down to 21 x 24 inches, so they would fit in my storage compartments on the TK.  (I think)  It’s expensive, but portable, so if you change RV’s you can take it with you easily.  Does anyone have any opinion if this is game changer to an expensive solar install? The panels look really sturdy would appear to be hard to blow over.  I have hesitated to add solar to my roof as I have been told by the factory not to drill holes. ( I know everyone does and it is ok, so I might). The other benefit is that you would not have to park in the hot sun. Portable Power Station, Power Outdoors - Jackery (http://www.jackery.com).  I am not sure if you could just connect it to the shore power socket with an adaptor or not.

WOW ($ 4,299.00) that seems like a lot of money for portable power, just saying  ::)

I just saw that Jackery are making a 2000 wh capacity power station with a 2200W AC inverter, which they say can be charged in 3 hours with 4 x 200 watt portable solar panels they also make.  The power station is small and comparatively light, and the panels fold down to 21 x 24 inches, so they would fit in my storage compartments on the TK.  (I think)  It’s expensive, but portable, so if you change RV’s you can take it with you easily.  Does anyone have any opinion if this is game changer to an expensive solar install? The panels look really sturdy would appear to be hard to blow over.  I have hesitated to add solar to my roof as I have been told by the factory not to drill holes. ( I know everyone does and it is ok, so I might). The other benefit is that you would not have to park in the hot sun. Portable Power Station, Power Outdoors - Jackery (http://www.jackery.com).  I am not sure if you could just connect it to the shore power socket with an adaptor or not.

Merged with the Jackery generator thread.

Chris

WOW ($ 4,299.00) that seems like a lot of money for portable power, just saying  ::)

Yes it is, but then I was quoted nearly $5000 by AM Solar for an install.  Two 170 solar panels and 1200 inverter.  That was in 2018. And it is difficult to take it with you.  The new 200 w solar panels are waterproof .
This technology is moving so rapidly, I may just wait till I retire and go full time in a couple of years.

I have frequently plugged my  Goal Zero(GZ) 1000 into the shore line receptable via a 30A to 120V cord. This gives me the option of using my 4 cup coffee maker and/or 700 watt microwave during the early morning hours when generator use is typically restricted and/or I just don't want to disturb mother nature and/or the neighbors. I think it is a nice option to have. Your Jackery would probably also work for similar or other purpose(s) when connected this way. Just don't exceed whatever the amp draw maximum is for your inverter. The one big inefficiency when connected in this way is that the power drawn from the generator does travel through the converter so there is some power loss in this process and I was surprised at how much. The power meter on my GZ shows a continuous 110 watt power draw when plugged into the shore line regardless of whether I have any of the previously mentioned appliances turned on. As a workaround,  I can either turn the inverter off on the generator or manually turn the main converter power switch off when I am finished.  I just like having a variety of flexible ways to generate and utilize energy. A moderate sized solar generator(1000-2000w)  with 200 or so watts of panels that can be placed strategically has been a  good investment for me. I should mention that the layout of a  2004 IB is efficient for the type of setup described i.e., the dinette and windows are in close proximity to the outside shore plug, the generator fits under the dinette with plenty of foot room to spare and is readily accessible to switch the inverter on/off, there is a 12 volt wall receptacle located on the outside wall under the dinette for charging, and the main control panel power switch is behind an easy to access panel on the front of sink cabinet which is directly across from the dinette.

Matt

Our AM Solar install wasn’t cheap but then quality made in America gear never is. The system is neatly tucked away with power to spare and will last a decade at full reserve guaranteed and most likely decades to come.

Add the sizeable Federal Income Tax credits to the overall cost of the system and AM Solar’s stellar craftsmanship and systems knowledge and the overall costs of installation are a moot point.

You get what you pay for. For me it’s peace of mind, and a system I will never have to upgrade.

Feels just fine to me.

Kent

Kent, you got an income tax credit on your RV solar install?

Our AM Solar install wasn’t cheap but then quality made in America gear never is. The system is neatly tucked away with power to spare and will last a decade at full reserve guaranteed and most likely decades to come.

Add the sizeable Federal Income Tax credits to the overall cost of the system and AM Solar’s stellar craftsmanship and systems knowledge and the overall costs of installation are a moot point.

You get what you pay for. For me it’s peace of mind, and a system I will never have to upgrade.

Feels just fine to me.

Kent

I agree, thanks for the input.  My LD is 2001. Maybe if I buy a new one one day.

I have frequently plugged my  Goal Zero(GZ) 1000 into the shore line receptable via a 30A to 120V cord. This gives me the option of using my 4 cup coffee maker and/or 700 watt microwave during the early morning hours when generator use is typically restricted and/or I just don't want to disturb mother nature and/or the neighbors. I think it is a nice option to have. Your Jackery would probably also work for similar or other purpose(s) when connected this way. Just don't exceed whatever the amp draw maximum is for your inverter. The one big inefficiency when connected in this way is that the power drawn from the generator does travel through the converter so there is some power loss in this process and I was surprised at how much. The power meter on my GZ shows a continuous 110 watt power draw when plugged into the shore line regardless of whether I have any of the previously mentioned appliances turned on. As a workaround,  I can either turn the inverter off on the generator or manually turn the main converter power switch off when I am finished.  I just like having a variety of flexible ways to generate and utilize energy. A moderate sized solar generator(1000-2000w)  with 200 or so watts of panels that can be placed strategically has been a  good investment for me. I should mention that the layout of a  2004 IB is efficient for the type of setup described i.e., the dinette and windows are in close proximity to the outside shore plug, the generator fits under the dinette with plenty of foot room to spare and is readily accessible to switch the inverter on/off, there is a 12 volt wall receptacle located on the outside wall under the dinette for charging, and the main control panel power switch is behind an easy to access panel on the front of sink cabinet which is directly across from the dinette.

Matt

Great information, thank you!

Gotta say, $4300 seems rather steep for a coffee maker.  We typically get a month out of a tank of propane during our off-grid adventures. 

That's running the fridge, heating water for coffee, occasional use of Wave heater, etc, and the fill-up tends to be 8-9 gallons.  It's hard to beat propane for anything requiring heat, even with 640W of solar and lithium batteries.

Steve

"Gotta say, $4300 seems rather steep for a coffee maker.  We typically get a month out of a tank of propane during our off grid adventures Steve"

But Steve TK, that kind of comment will reopen the "brewing coffee" discussion. 😀Some of the electrical engineer wannabes can engineer multi solar panel systems with inverters, battery chargers, sun tracker systems then purchase redundant back up systems and not know how to heat water to pour over a cone filter with ground coffee in it. Still, I do enjoy reading about their experiments.

Steve K.

I've always liked Jackery products, and I own a couple of their small (cell-phone-sized) USB powerpacks. Recently I bought a Jackery Explorer 240 power station, and it led to an unhappy customer support experience.

One of my criteria for choosing the 240 was that Jackery's spec sheet (see screenshot below) said it had a USB-C PD port capable of putting out 20 V at 3 A. This would let me charge my MacBook, among other things. I ordered the 240 through Walmart, who passed on the order to Jackery, who shipped the product.

When I got it, I found that it had two USB-A (5V, 2.4A) ports but no USB-C port. Jackery's advertised specs were wrong. Since Walmart was just the middleman in this "sold and shipped by Jackery" transaction, I called up Jackery and explained that because of their mistake, I had been mislead into buying a product that didn't do what was promised.

The support representative confirmed that the spec sheet was indeed mistaken. But after a long period on hold while she consulted with her supervisor and "the team," she told me that they couldn't do anything for me. She said I'd have to go back to Walmart, ask for a refund, and then order a different model. I pointed out that the mistake was Jackery's fault, not Walmart's, so shouldn't they take responsibility? Nope, Jackery refused.

I ended up ordering a Jackery 300 Plus, because it has what I want, including a USB-C PD port, and (mainly) it's on sale at $50 off through tomorrow, making it only a little more expensive than the 240. Perhaps I should have switched brands, but the 300 Plus fit my needs exactly, so...

As for this 240, I suppose I ought to return it to Walmart, although since I no longer have the packaging (shame on me), that will probably turn into a hassle.

If I were a manufacturer and promised something in my spec sheet that I wasn't going to deliver, I'd offer the customer a prompt refund at the very least, if not the opportunity to upgrade to a better model. It's unfortunate that Jackery doesn't care enough to do either.

By the way, I learned while researching this that manufacturers of these power stations/"solar generators" are in the process of switching from lithium ion to LiFePO4 battery technology.

Most Jackery models, for example--including the Explorer 240 that I initially bought, and its big brother the Explorer 300--use lithium ion batteries. But newer models such as the 300 Plus that I ordered to replace it use LiFePO4 batteries. These have several advantages: faster charging (2 hours on 120 VAC vs. 5.5 hours for the Explorer 240), much longer lifespans (4,000 full charge cycles, vs. 500 for the Explorer 240)... and a much-reduced risk of fire.

In short, when shopping for a power station, it's worth paying close attention to the battery type, and looking for LiFePO4. On the other hand, if you're on a tight budget, you may be able to find a bargain as the older-tech lithium ion types are being discontinued. Just be sure you know what you're getting.

Hi Andy. I’m not very versed in USB technology but are these the ports you are referring to?

As for this 240, I suppose I ought to return it to Walmart, although since I no longer have the packaging (shame on me), that will probably turn into a hassle.

I suggest you return it to Walmart. Since you bought it from them - not Jackery - and it doesn't perform as promised, they should (very likely will, I think) accept the return "as is". It's up to them to deal with Jackery according to their mutual agreements. Don't try to guess about the Walmart/Jackery relationship. They are both big boys and know this sort of thing (and worse) will happen.

Well, yes, your Yeti 3000 has both types. Here's the difference (and I'm only going to talk about power here, not data):

USB-A: the original USB port, USB-A is rectangular, and plugs can only fit in one orientation. Electrically, USB-A can deliver a maximum of about 2.5 amps, and only at 5 volts. As a power source, a USB-A port is suitable for charging small devices such as phones and tablets.

USB-C: a more recent development, USB-C is oval, and plugs can fit either way. Electrically, there are several varieties of USB-C, but the one found on better power stations is designated "PD" (for "Power Delivery") and can deliver up to 20 volts, as well as lower voltages for phones and tablets. Thus, USB-C PD ports can be used to charge many laptop computers, which typically require 16-18 V, as well as the usual phones and tablets.

"I suggest you return it to Walmart."

That would be good advice, Eric, except for the fact that I threw away the packaging a week ago. Living in a 19' trailer, I don't have room for empty cartons, so I tend to ditch them just as soon as I know the contents are working properly. I think Walmart would hassle me over a return "not in original packaging," and having already wasted a morning arguing with Jackery, I don't feel like going up against Walmart.

Incidentally, another lesson I learned from this experience is not to buy from Walmart when they are merely acting as a conduit for a third-party seller. If I'd researched just a bit, I'd've seen that the Jackery 240 was available from Amazon for about the same price. And experience tells me that Amazon--even when acting as a conduit for a third party--will back me up if I have a problem.

When I bought a portable 120V power supply my research led me to the Bluetti LiFePO4 products, mainly because they said (in their documentation) that the model I wanted (EB70) could be discharged and charged at the same time. I hooked it up that way, and it worked as documented.

Re: Andy's tale of woe with Walmart (and Jackery), I learned a while back to order some items directly from the manufacturer. I usually do this on high-cost or more-complicated items. That way the manufacturer has a record of your purchase, and they are less inclined to hassle you on returns or warranty issues. Sometimes you pay only a bit more for the piece of mind. As for "original packaging," I have an attic full of it that I have to muck out now and then- a luxury that Andy doesn't have!

Mark H.

Re: Andy's tale of woe with Walmart (and Jackery), I learned a while back to order some items directly from the manufacturer. I usually do this on high-cost or more-complicated items. .... As for "original packaging,"...
Mark H.

If it's large, I tend to buy from a place that offers easy returns without insisting on original packing. Recently, that was a lawnmower  from Costco, and a snow blower from Walmart. Amazon is also very good: usually, all I need to do is take the item to UPS, no packaging at all.

I think if you bring in the item without packaging, you will get in store credit at Walmart.   I am not 100% sure but worth a try. If you bring in the receipt they may refund your money.

All this talk and just now found this thread.
I use a lion energy safari-me xp. I added a transfer switch and plug. This way I can plug in the solar generator and power the 120v side of rv. I added 490w panel to roof on an exo frame. I can add 1 more panel if I want. This allows us to charge solar generator in rv.
I have several solar generators from small to 1200w besides the lion energy.
My next addition might be another fixed mppt controller and 24v 200ah lipo4 battery. By doing this I can use the safari me xp in conjunction with added battery. In theory I can run the ac about 6hrs with not counting the charge from panel.