How long Base powers your home
Calculate your outage protection time
How long different home backup systems last
Their runtime depends on the fuel tank and load, typically lasting 6–12 hours per refill. They’re good for short outages, but require manual setup, fuel storage, and regular maintenance.
They can run indefinitely as long as fuel is available, but come with high installation costs ($12,000–$20,000) and ongoing maintenance. They’re best for homes that lose power frequently and for long periods.
Runtime depends on system size and usage:
- 25 kWh battery: ~8–24 hours of backup
- 50 kWh battery: ~15–48 hours of backup
Unlike generators, they need no fuel or maintenance. When paired with solar, backup time can extend even longer — sometimes indefinitely during daylight hours.
In these systems, the generator or solar panels recharge the battery during long outages, allowing power to cycle continuously.
Portable units, standby generators, and batteries all work differently. Generators need fuel and maintenance. Base gives you quiet, automatic backup without the hassle.
Ask about maintenance schedules, warranty coverage, and repair fees. Standby generators often require regular servicing and fuel; batteries like Base run quietly and need almost no upkeep, and all maintenance is covered under one simple membership.
Think about what you want powered during an outage: a few essentials or your whole home. Whole-home batteries provide instant, quiet backup without refueling or manual setup.
Learn more about Base, home backup, and power outage preparedness
This guide covers everything you need to know about how your Base battery operates, protects your home, and supports the power grid
This guide breaks down the real causes of power disruptions, the types you’re most likely to experience, and the biggest misconceptions about the grid.
This article breaks down essential winter storm preparation tips for everyone, with specific guidance for Base members and those without backup power.