Home Backup Power in the UK: Sizing a Portable Power Station (230V)
The same installer-style sizing method we use for US homes, adapted for the UK.
Step 1: size it
Use the power station size calculator and the fridge runtime calculator. As a rough guide, about 1,000 Wh covers phones, Wi-Fi and lights for a day; keeping a fridge running for a full day as well usually takes about 2,000–3,000 Wh, depending on the fridge.
Step 2: local things to check
- Watts are watts: the calculator math (watts × hours) works the same at 230 V. Just use the wattage on your UK appliance label.
- Kettles, heaters and electric showers draw 2–3 kW or more. Check the rated output (W) before you plug them in.
- Buy from the UK store or an authorised UK retailer so the warranty is valid locally.
Step 3: buy the local version
Official stores for the UK:
Model line-ups, prices and promotions differ by country, so we do not list prices here. Check the local store for current details. Some links on this site may become affiliate links; we will always disclose this.
Frequently asked questions
What size power station do I need in the UK?
List what you need to run, multiply each appliance’s watts by the hours you will use it, add them up, divide by about 0.85 for inverter losses and multiply by the days you want to cover. Our calculator does this for you. The power station also needs enough output (W) for everything that runs at once, plus the starting surge of the largest motor.
Can I use a US power station in the UK?
The UK runs at 230 V / 50 Hz with Type G (three-pin) plugs. US 120 V models are not suitable; buy the UK version, which has UK sockets and a 230 V inverter.
Are the calculators accurate outside the US?
Yes. The math (watts × hours) does not depend on voltage. The default appliance wattages are typical estimates, so replace them with the numbers on your own appliance labels.