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The Ultimate EcoFlow Power Station and Solar Panel FAQ *Updated*
- UKSN
- Nov 22, 2024
- 11 min read
Updated: Feb 21
To help answer the most common questions received on the UK EcoFlow Facebook Group we have updated our super useful FAQ covering power stations and solar panels. Whether you’re new to portable power solutions or a seasoned user, you’ll find valuable insights here. Many customers ask similar questions regarding how EcoFlow products work, their capabilities, and how to optimise them for different setups. By gathering these frequently asked questions into one comprehensive guide, we hope to save you time and help you make informed decisions about your power and solar needs.
Most Frequently Asked Power Station & Solar Panel Questions
Are EcoFlow a Trusted Brand?
EcoFlow are a market leader, and trusted by millions across the globe. Producing battery solutions, solar panels, and a whole host of accessories, they are the go to brand for UKSN community members and come unanimously recommended by the UKSN team.
How Long Will My EcoFlow Power Station Run XYZ?
To calculate how long you can run a power station - identify the combined wattages of all the devices you want to connect, and times this by however many hours you want to operate them.
You can now divide the power stations capacity measured in Watt Hours (Wh), by the figure you just worked out.
Example: 50w (TV) X 3 (hours) = 150w
1024Wh (Power station capacity) divide 150w = 6.6 Hours
Will My EcoFlow Power Station Run a Diesel Heater?
Due to the glow plug needing between 8-10amps on start up, your power station is unlikely to run a diesel heater using the 12v cigarette port. Not all is lost! Simply buy an AC to DC converter and you can use your AC instead. Its obviously not as efficient as you will have conversion losses, but its still a far better option than a standard AC heater.
What is The Solar Input Limit For My EcoFlow Power Station?
To save you having to locate your manual we have compiled a list of specifications below! Just stay within the voltage limits highlighted and you are good to go!
River 2: 11-30V, 8A, 110W Max
River 2 Max: 11-50V, 13A, 220W Max
River 2 Pro: 11-50V, 13A, 220W Max
Delta 2: 11-60V, 15A, 500W Max
Delta 2 Max: 11-60V,15A, 500W per port (1000w Max)
Delta Pro: 11-150V, 15A, 1600W Max
PowerStream: 55V, 400w per port (800w Max)
How Does Series vs Parallel Impact My Setup?
In layman's terms, setting up solar panels in series increases the voltage, whereas parallel increases the amperage. For the best of both worlds connect panels in a combination of the two, increasing voltage and amps. Alternatively, if you are already at your power stations voltage limit, connect in parallel.
How Many Solar Panels Can I Connect to My EcoFlow <Insert Model> ?
As long as you stay within the voltage limits of your power station, you could technically connect dozens of solar panels. You really don’t need to worry about your power stations solar input wattage or amp 'limits', as these simply represent the maximum the device can utilise.
Over panelling your system can actually boost performance during poor or winter weather conditions. However, once your power station reaches its maximum solar input wattage, any excess power generation is essentially wasted. Our recommendation is to install enough solar panels to optimise energy production, regardless of the weather, without going excessively beyond what your power station can handle. Two or three times above EcoFlows 'limit' will likely maximise your setup during Winter.
Can I Mix Solar Panels?
Technically solar panels can be mixed, but we highly recommend that they aren't. Voltage and current imbalances will heavily reduce efficiency. Thankfully certain EcoFlow products have dual controllers like the Delta 2 Max. This allows the connection of two completely independent solar arrays. For example, two 220W solar panels (in parallel) can be attached to one controller, and four 110W panels (in series) to the other.
What is a Bifacial Solar Panel?
A bifacial solar panel such as the EcoFlow 220w bifacial is a type of panel that can generate electricity from sunlight on both its front and back sides. Unlike traditional solar panels, which are monofacial and only absorb light on one side, bifacial panels take advantage of reflected and diffused light hitting their rear side. This maximises performance and improves efficiency.
Top Tip: Place a white sheet or reflective survival blanket behind the solar panel to further increase power generation.
How Do I Maximise Solar Efficiency In The UK?
There are numerous ways to maximise efficiency including:
Angling the solar panel 30 to 40 degrees from the horizontal
Rotating the panel throughout the day ensuring it is always facing the sun
Keep solar panels clean and grime free
Avoid shading solar panels at all costs
Does Cold Weather Impact Solar Panels And Charging Rate?
Cold Weather plays havoc with batteries/power stations in general causing slow charging speed (if at all), depleting capacity, and so much more. The cold temperatures additionally cause an increase in voltage that can cause damage to your power station when charging via solar. In fact, for every degree Celsius below 25°C, voltage typically rises by about 0.4%.
How Long Will It Take To Charge My PowerStation Via Solar?
To work out how long it will theoretically take to charge your power station via solar panels, simply divide the power stations capacity in Watt Hours, by your solar panels combined wattage.
Example
1024Wh (Power station capacity) divide 400w (Combined Solar Panel Wattage) = 2.56 Hours
Obviously charging times will vary depending on a endless factors. Take into account weather, seasonal variations, UV strength, and even maximum charging limitations.
What Solar Panels Are Compatible With my EcoFlow Power Station?
As long as the following requirements are met, the solar panel will be compatible with your EcoFlow power station:
The Voc (open circuit voltage) of the solar panel is below the power stations maximum solar input voltage
The solar panel uses MC4 connectors
The solar panel has no built in charge controller
What Cables Will I Need to Connect Solar Panels to my EcoFlowPower Station?
Unless you are buying official EcoFlow portable solar panels you will need to purchase an XT60/i to MC4 cable. EcoFlow rigid panels, EcoFlow flexible panels, and other third party solar panels do not include this cable as standard. Also note that an XT60 to MC4 cable is no longer included with the purchase of any EcoFlow power station. This has been the case since The River/Delta 2 series.
In short, if you want the cable included with your solar panel, buy a portable model from EcoFlow! Alternatively click the button below and buy the cable today.
What is the Difference Between an XT60 and an XT60i Cable
Although they look very similar the XT60i has a ground pin. This tells the power station you have a solar panel connected and not a 12v car charger. This automatically unlocks the charging speed and can additionally reduce sparks when working with high voltages.
The Solar Panel Cable Isn't Long Enough, What Cable do I Need?
If the solar panel lead is to short, you can purchase extension cables. EcoFlow sell a 3M MC4 cable which is more than enough for most applications. You can even join multiple together if required.
I Want to Connect Two or More Solar Panels In Parallel, What Cable do I Need?
If you want to connect multiple solar panels together allowing you to overpanel or increase the available amps you need a Y splitter cable. The kit comes as a set, allowing you to connect the two positive ends, and the two negative ends of each panel together.
My Power Stations Battery Percentage Isn't Correct Due to XYZ
Many of us experienced a power stations battery management (BMS) system become out of sync, but fear not, its an easy fix! BMS systems are super complex and work out capacity using voltage. Its not an exact science, and many things can throw it out of kilter.
To rectify the issue its usually a case of repeatedly depleting the power station, then recharging to 100%. Your BMS should automatically recalibrate itself and capacity will be restored.
Can I Connect Two Power Stations Together For Charging?
Connecting two power stations together for charging is possible and very easy to do. They wont interface in any smart meaningful way like a dedicated EcoFlow Extra Battery, and its relatively inefficient, but you can connect one to the other and charge via the AC cord, 12v car charger or a third party XT60 to USB C port (on models that support bidirectional charging).
Can I Charge my Power Station With a Petrol/Diesel Generator?
Power stations can be charged using a generator as long as its a model with a pure sine-wave output. We personally recommend opting for an EcoFlow Generator with a Delta series power station because it efficiently charges using a DC connection. This avoids the conversion losses of a standard generator. An EcoFlow generator can additionally be set to turn on automatically when a Delta is low on power, making it the perfect backup solution.
My Smart Generators Screen is Blank After a Failed Update. How do I Fix it?
If your EcoFlow Smart Generator's screen is blank and it's beeping constantly after a failed update, don’t worry—this can be resolved. Simply attempt the update again via the EcoFlow app. When the app detects the generator in 'recovery mode', it will present you with an option to perform an offline update. Follow the instructions to complete the process, and this should restore your generator to normal operation.
What Petrol Should I Use With My Petrol Generator/EcoFlow Smart Generator?
If using a Petrol generator regularly, any standard petrol will work just fine. If you plan on using for backup purposes and may not use your generator for months or years at a time, we highly recommend running it on Aspen 4. This innovative fuel has a very long shelf life and wont gum up the generators internals.
Why is my Power Station Battery Percentage Dropping Even Though Nothing is Charging?
Power stations contain complex electronics that use power. The screen, bluetooth, Wifi, Inverter, and BMS (battery monitoring system), all use power if the unit is switched on. To minimise depleting the battery when on standby, ensure that the AC Inverter, 12V, and USB ports are switched off. If you are not currently using the power station, ensure its fully turned off by holding the power button until the screen says 'Off'. Just be aware that you may need to disconnect any connected devices that are inputting power before it will actually shut down completely.
My Power Station Wont Turn Off, Whats Wrong?
If you are holding the power button, but the power station wont turn off, its usually because its either charging or discharging. Ensure all devices are disconnected (Including solar panels) and try again!
Why Does My Power Stations Display Look Broken After Removing The Protective Sticker?
First off, dont panic! This is 100% expected behaviour. The screen is simply affected by the static electricity caused by removing the screen protector. It will rectify itself automatically within 30 minutes.
Can I Turn my Power Station on Remotely?
If your power station is completely turned off, and shows as offline on the app, it can easily be switched on remotely using a smart plug (available to purchase separately). Simply insert your power stations charging cable into the smart plug and connect to a standard AC wall socket. Once the smart plug is activated, it will switch your unit on to charge. You can now remotely control your power station as normal using the EcoFlow App.
How do I Add EcoFlow to Home Assistant?
If you use Home Assistant and have decided you want to integrate your EcoFlow devices into your smart home (or van) then our Friends at Conversion Virgins have you covered! In fact, they have created a video tutorial that details the whole process!
If you haven't yet started your Home Assistant journey, they even offer a free tutorial that will walk you through the necessary steps of installing Home Assistant on your PC.
I Have Replaced my WiFi Router, What is the Easiest Way To Update my EcoFlow Devices?
To avoid having to manually update all of your devices including power stations, smart plugs and personal devices such as phones and tablets - simply change the SSID and password of your new router to match that of your old one. Its something so simple, that everyone completely overlooks!
What Mobile Phone Will Work With The EcoFlow Rapid Power Bank?
The EcoFlow Rapid is designed to work seamlessly with any MagSafe-compatible iPhone, from the iPhone 12 through to the latest iPhone 16 Pro Max, allowing for easy magnetic attachment and wireless charging. For Android users, or any other device that charges via USB-C, the EcoFlow Rapid is still fully compatible—while it won’t magnetically stick to the back of the phone, you can simply use the built-in USB-C cable for fast and reliable charging.
What EcoFlow Power Station Should I Buy?
When selecting a power station its important to consider certain factors. These include
Battery Capacity: Higher Wh means more energy storage.
Output Wattage: Ensure the power station can handle the peak wattage of your devices.
Portability: Weight and size matter, especially for outdoor use.
Charging Options: Look for flexibility in charging via solar panels, car adapters, or mains electricity.
EcoFlow River 3 Power Station Line Up (Pre-Order)
River 3/River 3 UPS
Battery Capacity: 245Wh
Inverter AC Output: 300W
Ideal For: solo camping or low power applications.
River 3 Plus (Coming Soon)
Battery Capacity: 286Wh
Inverter AC Output: 600W
Ideal For: Short family camping trips, or low power applications.
River 3 Max (Coming Soon)
Battery Capacity: 572Wh
Inverter AC Output: 600W
Ideal For: weekend + family camping trips, and low power applications.
River 3 Max Plus (Coming Soon)
Battery Capacity: 858Wh
Inverter AC Output: 600W
Ideal For: weekend + family camping trips, and low power applications.
EcoFlow River 2 Power Station Line Up
River 2
Battery Capacity: 256Wh
Inverter AC Output: 300W
Ideal For: solo camping or low power applications.
River 2 Max
Battery Capacity: 512Wh
Inverter AC Output: 500W
Ideal For: Short family camping trips, or low power applications.
River 2 Pro
Battery Capacity: 768Wh
Inverter AC Output: 800W
Ideal For: weekend+ family camping trips, and low to medium power applications.
EcoFlow Delta 2 Power Station Line Up
Delta 2
Battery Capacity: 1024Wh
Inverter AC Output: 1800W
Ideal For: Large family camps, short home/office emergency backup, and medium to high power applications.
Delta 2 Max
Battery Capacity: 2048Wh
Inverter AC Output: 2400W
Ideal For: Extended camps, motorhomes, camper vans, general home/office emergency backup, and most high power applications including microwaves, fridges etc.
Delta Pro
Battery Capacity: 3600Wh
Inverter AC Output: 3600W
Ideal For: Complete home/office emergency backup, and even the most demanding high power applications.
Want to learn more about EcoFlow power stations and accessories? Click the button below!
What is The Difference Between the River 3 and River 2?
The EcoFlow River 3 has various upgrades including:
More compact design
Improved efficiency and cooling thanks to GaN technology
Quieter (30db vs 45db)
Upgraded 100W USB C port (FYI its no longer Bi-Directional)
Improved 126w 10a 12V output
10/20s UPS (River 3 version dependent)
For more information read our recent River 3 Review!
Im Still Not Sure What EcoFlow Model to Choose
If you require assistance selecting the perfect model, accessories, or setup - We are happy to talk you through the entire line-up and act as your personal shopper. Just drop us a message and we will be in touch.
In exchange for this 1-1 service we kindly ask that you support us by using the EcoFlow affiliate links provided. There is absolutely no additional cost to you, but makes the world of difference to us!
How Do I Unlock Extra Discount on EcoFlow Products?
To make these cutting-edge power solutions even more accessible, we're delighted to offer an exclusive 5% discount.
Simply use code EFUKGS5 at checkout and embark on your next adventure with EcoFlow's Delta or River series power stations.
I Have a Question That the FAQ Hasn't Answered, Whats Next?
If you still have questions we recommend a tiered approach.
Read your manual - It will likely answer any questions you have.
Head Over to the NEW Ecoflow UK Owners Group and use the search functionality to see if the question has been asked before. If it hasn't - feel free to ask away. If you believe the issue might be a fault, please ensure you include relevant details such as: model, SOC (State of Charge), temperature, firmware number, and a detailed account of the Issue including steps you have tried to rectify the problem so far.
Contact EcoFlow Support for further assistance. We highly recommend dropping them an email via support.eu@ecoflow.com. To speed things up include: your full name, shipping address, postcode, phone number, serial number, purchase channel, order number, and order date.
FAQ Conclusion
We hope this FAQ has answered your questions about EcoFlow power stations and solar panels, making it easier to choose the right setup for your needs. We’ll continue to update this list as new questions and products come up, so be sure to check back regularly for the latest information. If you have a question that hasn’t been covered or want further clarification, feel free to leave a comment below, and we’ll make sure to add it to the guide!
Exclusive Gift Package Including 10% Off
Have you signed up to the EcoFlow community yet? Use our link to unlock an exclusive gift package containing:
- 10% discount voucher (via email)
- £500 benefits package (via email)
- 1000 EcoCredits which can be exchanged for vouchers or physical merchandise*
- Automatically entered into the EcoFlow monthly raffle!
Grab an extra 5% off using our affiliate link and discount code at checkout.
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