Articles tagged basics
Related backup power guides grouped under this topic.
How Our Calculator Picks Your Recommendation
A transparent look at the exact steps PowerLasts uses to size your backup power, so you can trust the recommendation or double-check the maths yourself.
LiFePO4 vs Lithium-Ion vs Lead-Acid: Battery Types Explained
The three main battery types in backup power, compared on lifespan, safety, weight, cost, and real-world performance.
Your Power Strip Is Probably Not a Surge Protector
Most people think their power strip protects their electronics. It probably doesn't. Here's the difference and why it matters.
Watts vs VA: How Many Watts Is a UPS?
Convert 600VA, 700VA, 1000VA, 1200VA, 1500VA and 2000VA to watts, understand power factor, and size a UPS without guessing.
What Are Watt-Hours? Wh, Watts and Battery Runtime
A watt-hour is one watt used for one hour. Learn Wh vs W, convert mAh and Ah to Wh, and see what a 1000Wh battery can really run.
What Is Startup Surge? Why Your Power Station Needs Extra Watts
Some devices need a burst of extra power to start up. Here's what startup surge means, which devices have it, and why it matters for backup power sizing.
You Only Get Half the Battery (Here's Why)
That 1000Wh battery doesn't actually give you 1000Wh. Depth of discharge, inverter losses, and battery chemistry quietly steal your runtime.