Measure the average, not just the label
A refrigerator’s compressor doesn’t run constantly — it cycles on to pull the temperature down, then shuts off. The fraction of time it runs changes with the appliance and conditions. For runtime, use its average draw over a representative period.
The sizing tool uses the examples below. “Avg while cycling” multiplies running watts by the assumed fraction of time the compressor is on. Use a representative meter reading for your own fridge if you have one.
| Appliance | Running draw | Startup surge | Avg while cycling | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (full-size) | 180 W | 1,200 W | ~63 W | 2026-07-06 |
| Chest freezer | 100 W | 700 W | ~30 W | 2026-07-06 |
The runtime math, on real stations
Estimated AC runtime is AC-delivered watt-hours divided by average AC draw. Conversion losses are already included in AC-delivered energy. Using each model’s measured or estimated figure and the ~63 W fridge preset average above, here is the estimated runtime for that preset.
| Model | AC-delivered capacity | Est. fridge runtime |
|---|---|---|
| EcoFlow DELTA 3 | 870 Wh | ~14 hr |
| Anker SOLIX C1000 Gen 2 | 870 Wh | ~14 hr |
| Bluetti Elite 200 v2 | 2,074 Wh | ~33 hr |
| Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 | 1,725 Wh | ~27 hr |
Treat the rounded figures as estimates. Room temperature, door openings and operating modes can change average draw. For a number tuned to your fridge and how many hours or days you need to cover, run the sizing tool, with your own inputs.
Check compressor startup separately
A compressor can need more power to start than to run. Check the fridge’s startup requirement against the station’s surge rating and supported duration. More stored energy cannot make up for insufficient output.
Check before relying on it
- Delivered capacity covers your measured demand and backup duration
- Sourced surge rating and duration fit the compressor's startup
- Output and connection follow the appliance and station manuals
- Other simultaneous loads are included in the budget
Reasons to revisit the plan
- A general preset is being treated as your fridge's measured draw
- Startup requirements or surge duration are unknown
- Conversion losses are applied twice to delivered energy
- The battery budget leaves out other loads or reserve
The models above are drawn from our best power stations for home backup list — every one ranked on sourced capacity and output, with claimed and verified readings kept distinct.
Frequently asked questions
- How long will a power station run a refrigerator?
- Estimate runtime by dividing AC-delivered watt-hours by the fridge’s average input watts. The table below uses a sourced device preset and model-specific delivered capacity. Replace the preset with representative energy use for your fridge; ambient heat, door openings and operating modes can change the result.
- What size power station do I need for a fridge during an outage?
- Multiply your fridge’s average draw by the backup hours you need, add other simultaneous loads and reserve, then compare that demand with delivered capacity. Check the fridge’s startup requirements against the station’s sourced surge rating and duration. No single capacity or inverter rating fits every refrigerator.
- Why does a fridge need a startup check?
- A compressor may briefly need more power at startup than during normal running. A running-watts match does not establish that it will start. Check the appliance’s requirements and the station’s supported surge rating and duration.
- Can I run a chest freezer on a power station too?
- Check the freezer’s average energy use, startup requirement and supported electrical connection. The same energy calculation applies, but a freezer’s draw and startup behavior must not be assumed from a refrigerator preset.
- Does opening the fridge door change battery runtime?
- Door openings and room temperature can change compressor operation and average energy use. Use measurements representative of your conditions. Battery runtime also does not establish food safety; consult the linked outage checklist for FDA temperature guidance.