Anker just introduced the SOLIX S5000, a large portable battery that it says can run a home’s essentials for 48 hours during a blackout. It will go on sale on October 27 on Anker’s website and Amazon for a starting price of $2,499.99.
If a storm knocks out your power, a battery like this can keep the fridge cold and the Wi-Fi running. The regular price is $3,599.99, so the introductory price will save you $1,100.
What Anker says it can run
The S5000 stores 5,024 watt-hours of energy. In Anker’s own test, this kept a fridge, WiFi router, coffee maker, lights and a phone together for 48 hours. On its own, it has a refrigerator for up to 86 hours and a window air conditioner for up to 25 hours.
Anker credits a feature called OptiSave 2.0 for the long runtime. If you only run a few things, it wastes less power. The company claims that adds 20% more runtime and up to 21 days of standby.
It puts out 4,500 watts, with bursts up to 8,000 watts. That covers regular wall outlets and the heavier 240-volt connections used by larger appliances. It can also run compatible furnaces, well pumps, ranges and water heaters. The 240-volt output remains on while the battery is charged from a regular outlet.
If the grid suddenly drops, the S5000 switches over in 10 milliseconds to keep compatible (and essential) devices running. The company also says the battery stays below 30 decibels in specified conditions, so it shouldn’t be loud around living spaces.
Size, charging and safety
The S5000 weighs 97 pounds. Anker says this makes it 28% lighter and 45% smaller than select competing batteries of the same size. It has wheels and a telescoping handle, so you can roll it from room to room.
Charging is fast if you have the right hookup. Anker says a 4,500-watt, 240-volt source fills it from empty in as little as 99 minutes. It also accepts up to 3,000 watt solar panels. If you need more storage later, you can add batteries to reach 30 kilowatt hours.
For safety, it uses lithium iron phosphate cells, rated for up to 10,000 charge cycles. Anker estimates a service life of up to 15 years under specified conditions and backs it up with a five-year warranty. The S5000 is UL 9540 certified, a safety standard for energy storage. Anker also says it’s the first 5-kilowatt-hour portable power station to earn an A+ runtime rating from testing firm TÜV SÜD.
How to get one early
Anker is offering a bonus package worth $699 for early buyers. Sign up at AnkerSOLIX.com between October 9th and October 26th, then purchase the S5000 between October 27th and November 9th.