Introduction:
During a blackout, your refrigerator is the first casualty. The FDA states that food becomes unsafe after just 4 hours without power.
If you bought a 1000Wh portable power station (like the Anker Solix C1000 or EcoFlow Delta 2), you need to know exactly how long it will keep your food cold. Is it 5 hours? Or 2 days?
The answer depends on the “Inverter Tax” and your fridge’s age. Here is the math.
1. The “Cheat Sheet” Runtime Table
Based on a standard 1000Wh battery (assuming 85% inverter efficiency).
| Fridge Type | Average Watts (Running) | Estimated Runtime | Can it last overnight? |
| Full-Size (Modern) | 40W – 60W | 14 – 18 Hours | ✅ Yes |
| Full-Size (Old/Dirty Coils) | 100W – 150W | 6 – 8 Hours | ⚠️ Maybe |
| Mini Fridge (Dorm Style) | 30W – 50W | 17 – 25 Hours | ✅ Yes |
| 12V Car Fridge (Portable) | 10W – 15W | 50+ Hours | ✅ Easily |
Note: These numbers assume the fridge cycles on and off (duty cycle). If you leave the door open, the compressor runs 100% of the time, cutting these numbers in half.
2. The “Starting Watt” Danger Zone
Your battery might have enough capacity (Wh) to run the fridge, but does it have enough power (W) to start it?
Every time your fridge compressor kicks on, it requires a massive surge of electricity called “Starting Watts” (usually 1200W – 2000W) for a split second.
- The Rule: Ensure your Power Station has a Surge Output of at least 2000W.
- Good News: Most 1000Wh units like the EcoFlow Delta 2 (2700W Surge) can handle this easily. Smaller 300Wh units will trip and shut off immediately.
3. How to Extend Runtime (The “4-Hour” Strategy)
You don’t need to run the generator 24/7. To make your battery last 2-3 days:
- Run for 1 hour. Cool the fridge down to 34°F.
- Unplug for 3 hours. The insulation will keep food safe.
- Repeat.This method allows a 1000Wh battery to survive a multi-day outage.
4. What to Buy?
- For Fast Recharging: If you plan to recharge via a gas generator or brief windows of grid power, get the Anker Solix C1000. It recharges in 58 minutes, meaning you can top it up quickly while the fridge is “coasting.”
- For Solar: If you have solar panels, the EcoFlow Delta 2 allows for custom automation to prioritize solar charging.
