Overview
Just a few short years ago, the only solution for off-the-grid power was a gas-powered generator. Usually loud, smelly, and of course completely reliant on gasoline.
Then as luck would have it, innovation in the world of smartphones gave rise to the portable power station.
Smartphones need portable power so battery banks started to hit the market, usually capable of powering a device 2x or 3x before running out of power.
Then larger battery banks appeared, the term portable power station was coined and today we have a quiet and effective source for off-grid power.
To be clear, I've reviewed my fair share of power stations, however, this recent addition to the inventory was quite impressive.
The FFpower P2001 boasts a 2000Wh(Watt Hour) capacity, which is a unit of measurement for power over a period of time (an hour).
Translated to real-world use, my iPhone uses 5W(AMP*VOLTS) when recharging.
Now to get the total time in Wh (watt-hours) for a full recharge we use this formula Wh = W * Runtime.
In this case, one recharge will consume 5Wh in one hour, leaving the battery well above 99% capacity.
This power station provides 200hrs of light from a bulb that draws 10W when plugged in. The equation can be flipped to solve for X. Capacity / Watts = Runtime Hours (2000 / 10 = 200)
These impressive numbers are thanks to the innovative Lithium Iron Phosphate battery (LiFePO4), also called LFP battery.
A LiFePO4 is a reversible electricity storage system. The battery has the ability to be charged (storage) with electricity when connected to a power source.
Conversely, it can be discharged (release of electricity) when a power load is applied IE plugging in the coffee maker and brewing coffee.
Beyond a massive energy storage capacity, the P2001 has a cycle life 4x longer than that of other lithium-ion batteries.
It’s also the safest lithium battery type on the market, safer than lithium-ion and other battery types.
And last but not least, LiFePO4 batteries can not only reach 3,000-5,000 cycles or more… They can reach 100% depth of discharge (DOD). Why does that matter? Because that means, with LiFePO4 (unlike other batteries) you don’t have to worry about over-discharging your battery.
Also, you can use it for a longer period of time as a result. In fact, you can use a quality LiFePO4 battery for many years longer than other battery types.
This battery is rated at 3,500 cycles. That’s roughly 10 years at 70% discharge. Beyond the impressive lifespan, the LiFePO4 is incombustible. Not going to explode, unless maybe it's thrown into a volcano.
Here are a few highlights of this power station
- Charge efficiency: a LiFePO4 battery will reach full charge in 2 hours or less.
- Self-discharge rate when not in use: Only 2% per month. Meaning the battery retains its charge amazingly well.
- Runtime is much higher than lead-acid batteries or lithium batteries.
- Consistent power: The same amount of amperage even below 50% battery life.
And one of the biggest bonuses, no maintenance is needed. No parts to service or replace. 100% self-contained energy storage solution.
Features
The P2001 can be considered the core of an effective and powerful off-grid solution. I see it as my own custom grid, disconnected from the physical grid 100% but still able to power all my devices.
The total capacity is 16 devices, the P2001 handles anything from a GoPro to a Refrigerator.
Inside the station, a bidirectional inverter board replaced the traditional bulky inverters, which not only reduces the weight but also optimizes the charging time.
Weighing in at just 48lbs the P2001 can reach 1100W AC charging power and a full charge in less than 2 hours.
When exposed to direct sunlight and wired to solar panels, the unit can reach 500W charging power, reaching a full charge in an average of 5 hours. It is compatible with any standard solar panels on the market. I use the Ecoflow 85W Solar Panel and found it to be an easy connection.
The P2001 can also be plugged into a vehicle outlet, but at much less charging power, generally taking 8 hours to fully charge.
This power station can also be used as a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply).
As long as the unit is connected to an A/C outlet, when there is a sudden home power failure, the station will automatically switch to UPS Power Supply within 10ms.
This works for all connected devices under a draw of 1100W which is basically anything from laptops to freezers or TVs.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
The P2001 provides a clear and easy-to-read display and an option to adjust the brightness. A flashlight rounds out the features, apart from mentioning there is a large storage container on the top for power cords.
Summary
The massive power station easily ran all my devices from cameras to scopes, a beard trimmer, and more. No issues and not a single failure to start or operate. The P2001 is the definition of reliable, providing power on the go on-demand 24/7.
It ran from a 99% charge down to 10% over the course of two weeks. My only regret is not having a deep freezer to plugin but maybe next time.
Overall I'm confident that when paired with solar panels this unit could easily power all vital devices for a month with no issue and of course longer depending on device usage and available sunlight.
Considering it can power anything, imagine using this power station to extend the range on an electric car or to power mission-critical communication gear at an LP/OP.
The uses are endless for this unit. In my case, later this year I'll be using this station to power mission essential gear while I'm off-grid back in Tennessee.
I'm confident this unit will be more than up to the challenge.
Grab your P2001 Power Station at this link.
See you in the field,
Blitz
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