Backup power: which do I need?
Sources awaiting check
Work it out for your home
Worked example
For phones and a rechargeable torch; then phones, the broadband router and a CPAP machine:
- Phones and a torch: a charged power bank is usually enough.
- Router and CPAP: these run from a mains socket, so a power bank won't do. Talk to your CPAP supplier first, then compare power stations on Ferncharge.
Source: gov.uk Prepare, awaiting check; Priority Services Register, awaiting check
If you only need to keep phones charged, a charged power bank is usually enough. If you'd want to keep something going that plugs into a mains socket, such as the broadband router, a fridge or medical equipment, you'll need something bigger.
How it works
This tool sorts what you tick into two groups: things that charge from a USB socket, and things that need a mains socket. That's all it does. We don't work out sizes or how long a battery would last: our sister site Ferncharge compares portable power stations and checks that for you.
FAQs
Can I plug a power station into my home's wiring?
No. Never connect a generator or power station to your home wiring yourself. That needs a qualified electrician with the right switchgear.
What about medical equipment?
Talk to your equipment supplier first. They can tell you what backup is safe for your device. Join the Priority Services Register too.
Read the guide: Backup power for power cuts
More tools
- Your home in a power cut: household planTell us who lives with you and how your home is heated, and get a plan for what stops working, what to do in the first hour and first day, who to call and what to keep in the cupboard.
- What stops working in a power cutTick what your home has, from the boiler to the landline, and see what stops in a power cut, what may keep going and what to do about each.
- Who to call in a power cutPick where you live and get the number to call, a link to find your local network operator, and where to report a cut or check for updates.
Sources
- gov.uk Prepare emergency kit list (gov.uk Prepare), awaiting check
- Who the Priority Services Register is for (Priority Services Register), awaiting check