How do I know if my device will work with the Goal Zero Yeti ?
First, you’ll need to determine the amount of power your device requires. This may require some research on your end, a good internet search or examining the user guide for your device should suffice.
Second, you will need to check the capacity for the individual output ports. For example, the Goal Zero Yeti’s AC port is powered by an inverter that allows for 2000W of power. This means if your device is pulling more than 2000W for an extended period of time, the Goal Zero Yeti’s inverter will shut off. Another number to watch for is the surge rating of your device as compared to that of the port. The Goal Zero Yeti inverter has an advanced surge management system that will maximize its compatibility with various devices, but there will still be items that will surge at a higher rate, and for a longer time, than the Goal Zero Yeti can manage, in which case the port will turn itself off.
Lastly, in some situations, like when running a 12V device, such as the Light-a-Life 350, directly off the 12V port, there will be minimal conversion and thus very little additional losses. In using the USB ports to charge a phone, you add a layer of conversion (12V battery in the Goal Zero Yeti is being converted to a 5V USB output), which introduces around 10% of losses. When using the inverter, there are two layers of conversion (12V to high voltage, DC to AC). The least efficient way of using the battery in the Goal Zero Yeti is to use an AC-DC adapter off the AC ports, as is the case if you use a phone wall charger to charge your phone, as it adds yet another layer of conversion in the wall adapter. So when you’re deciding on what to power from your new Goal Zero power station, do some research into your device’s watt consumption. For more quick tips and learning tools, check out www.GoalZero.com/learn.html