FAQs

Does ROCKSOLAR Offer Free Shipping?

We offer free standard shipping across the USA mainland, and Canada. We also offer free expedited charge shipping. We will ship within two business days once we receive the order, and customers can expect their shipment within 2-7 days. All products are shipped by ground, as battery products can not be shipped by air.

What About a Warranty Period?

Limited Warranty

ROCKSOLAR LLC. provides a non-transferable warranty to the purchaser of ROCKSOLAR products purchased from an authorized ROCKSOLAR reseller. ROCKSOLAR LLC. warrants to the original consumer purchaser that the ROCKSOLAR product will be free from defects in workmanship and material under normal consumer use during the applicable warranty period identified in the 'Warranty Period' section below, subject to the exclusions set forth below. This warranty statement sets forth ROCKSOLAR's total and exclusive warranty obligation. We will not assume nor authorize any person to assume any other liability for the sale of our products.

Warranty Period

The warranty period is 12 months. In each case, the warranty period is measured starting on the date of purchase by the original consumer purchaser. The sales receipt from the first consumer purchase, or other reasonable documentary proof, is required in order to establish the start date of the warranty period.

Remedy

ROCKSOLAR's entire liability and your exclusive remedy for any ROCKSOLAR product that is not operating in accordance with its published technical specifications are at ROCKSOLAR's discretion: replace the product at ROCKSOLAR's expense. This warranty obligation is conditioned upon the hardware being returned to the original place of purchase or another place as directed by ROCKSOLAR, with the original sales receipt attached. You may be required to pay shipping and handling charges, as well as any applicable tariffs, duties, taxes, or other fees. ROCKSOLAR may, at its discretion, provide new or refurbished products.

Limited to Original Consumer Buyer

The warranty on ROCKSOLAR's product is limited to the original consumer purchaser and to any subsequent owner.

Limitation of Liability

ROCKSOLAR shall not be liable for any special, incidental, indirect, or consequential damages whatsoever, including, but not limited to loss of profits, revenue, or data (whether direct or indirect) or commercial loss for breach of any express or implied warranty on your product even if ROCKSOLAR has been advised previously of the possibility of such damages. Some local laws do not allow the exclusion or limitation of special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, so this limitation or exclusion may not apply in your jurisdiction.

Exclusions

The warranty does not cover failures resulting from incorrect handling, product modifications, installation, conversion or additions, supplements, operation, natural elements (weather), excessive or deficient energy supply, chemicals, the effect of solid bodies, or deliberate damage. If the Warrantor determines that the problem with the ROCKSOLAR product(s) is not due to a manufacturing defect in the Warrantor's workmanship or materials, or otherwise does not qualify for warranty repair, then the Purchaser will be responsible for all costs incurred by the Warrantor necessary to repair, replace and transport the ROCKSOLAR product(s). ROCKSOLAR's warranty does not apply to the battery cell unless the battery cell is fully charged by you within seven days after you purchase the product and at least every three months thereafter.

How to Receive Service

To obtain warranty service, contact our customer service team at services@rocksolars.com

What is a portable power station?

A portable power station is a rechargeable battery-powered device that provides electrical power for various electronic devices and small appliances without the need for a wall outlet. Unlike traditional gas-powered generators, portable power stations operate quietly and without emissions, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

How do portable power stations differ from traditional generators?

A Portable power stations store energy in internal batteries and provide power without combustion, resulting in silent operation and zero emissions. In contrast, traditional generators burn fossil fuels to generate electricity, producing noise and exhaust fumes, which can limit their use indoors or in enclosed spaces.

What devices can a portable power station run?

Portable power stations can power a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, fans, lights, and small appliances like mini-fridges or CPAP machines. The specific devices a power station can support depend on its capacity and output specifications.

How long can the power station run my device?

The runtime of a portable power station depends on its capacity (measured in watt-hours) and the power consumption of the connected device. For example, a 500Wh power station can theoretically run a 50W device for approximately 10 hours (500Wh ÷ 50W = 10 hours). Actual runtimes may vary based on efficiency and other factors.

What is solar energy?

Solar energy is the radiant light and heat from the sun that can be harnessed using various technologies, such as photovoltaic (PV) panels, to generate electricity. This renewable energy source is abundant and sustainable, providing an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels.

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels consist of photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then transforms this DC electricity into alternating current (AC), which can be used to power homes and appliances.

Do solar panels only work on warm and sunny days?

No, solar panels do not require warm weather to function. They operate based on sunlight, not heat, and can generate electricity on cloudy days, though their efficiency may be reduced. Solar panels are designed to work in various climates, including cold and overcast conditions.

How long do solar panels last?

ROCKSOLAR solar panels are built to be durable and long-lasting. Typically, solar panels have a lifespan of 25 to 35 years, with manufacturers often providing warranties within this range. Over time, panels may experience slight efficiency reductions, but they continue to produce electricity for many years.

What maintenance is required for solar panels?

Solar panels require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning to remove dust and debris ensures optimal performance. Periodic inspections to check for any damage or shading issues are also recommended. Following the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines will help maintain efficiency and extend the system's lifespan.

How does an off-grid solar system work?

An off-grid solar system operates independently from the utility grid, generating electricity through solar panels that convert sunlight into direct current (DC). This DC energy is stored in batteries for later use. When electricity is needed, an inverter transforms the stored DC power into alternating current (AC), suitable for powering household appliances and devices.

Do I need batteries in my off-grid power system?

Yes, batteries are essential in an off-grid power system. They store excess solar energy generated during daylight hours, ensuring a continuous power supply during nighttime or periods of low sunlight. Without batteries, there would be no means to store energy for use when solar generation is insufficient.

Can I expand my off-grid system in the future?

Yes, off-grid systems are often designed with scalability in mind. You can add additional solar panels, batteries, or other components to increase capacity as your energy needs grow. It's advisable to plan for potential expansion during the initial system design to ensure compatibility and cost-effectiveness.

How much can I save by going off-grid with solar?

The savings from transitioning to an off-grid solar system vary based on factors such as initial setup costs, local energy prices, and individual energy consumption. While the upfront investment can be significant, over time, many users experience reduced or eliminated monthly energy bills, leading to substantial long-term savings.

What appliances can I run on an off-grid solar system?

The appliances you can run depend on the capacity of your off-grid solar system. Properly sized systems can support common household appliances such as refrigerators, lights, televisions, and computers. High-energy-consuming devices like air conditioners or electric heaters may require larger systems or alternative energy solutions.

What are solar water pumps?

Solar water pumps are devices that utilize solar energy to pump water, eliminating the need for grid electricity or fuel-powered generators. They are particularly beneficial in remote areas where access to conventional power sources is limited, providing a sustainable and cost-effective solution for irrigation, livestock watering, and domestic water supply.

What is the difference between submersible and centrifugal solar water pumps?

Submersible solar water pumps are designed to operate underwater, making them ideal for deep wells or boreholes. They are placed directly into the water source and can efficiently pump water from significant depths. Centrifugal solar water pumps, on the other hand, are surface-mounted and are suitable for shallow water sources. They use centrifugal force to move water and are typically used for applications where the water source is close to the surface.

Do I need batteries in my solar water pumping system?

Batteries are not always necessary in solar water pumping systems. Many systems are designed to operate directly from solar panels during daylight hours, storing water in tanks for use when sunlight is unavailable. However, incorporating batteries can provide the advantage of operating the pump during cloudy days or at night, ensuring a continuous water supply.

Can solar water pumps operate during cloudy days or at night?

Solar water pumps primarily operate during sunlight hours. On cloudy days, their performance may decrease due to reduced solar irradiance. At night, without sunlight, they do not function unless the system includes battery storage to provide power during these periods.

What is a grid-tie solar inverter?

A grid-tie solar inverter is a device that converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC), which is synchronized with the utility grid's voltage and frequency. This allows the solar energy system to supply power to a home or business and feed excess energy back into the grid.

How does a grid-tie inverter work?

Grid-tie inverters continuously monitor the voltage and frequency of the utility grid and adjust their output to match it precisely. They convert the DC power from solar panels into AC power that aligns in phase and frequency with the grid, enabling seamless integration and efficient energy transfer.

Will a grid-tie inverter work during a power outage?

No, grid-tie inverters are designed to shut down automatically during a power outage to prevent "islanding," which could endanger utility workers repairing the grid. Therefore, they do not provide power during outages unless combined with a battery backup system and a suitable inverter designed for off-grid operation.

Do grid-tie inverters require maintenance?

Grid-tie inverters are generally low-maintenance devices. However, it's recommended to have periodic inspections to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Keeping the inverter clean and ensuring adequate ventilation can help maintain efficiency.

What are Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries?

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4 or LFP) batteries are a specific type of lithium-ion battery that use iron phosphate as the cathode material. Known for their stable chemistry and durability, they provide a safer, longer-lasting alternative to many other battery types, making them popular in various applications, from electric vehicles to solar energy storage systems.

How long do LiFePO4 batteries last?

LiFePO4 batteries can often provide 2,000 to 5,000 charge-discharge cycles or more, depending on usage and maintenance conditions. In practical terms, this can translate to 5–10 years of service life under regular use. Some high-quality LiFePO4 batteries, when well-maintained, can continue to perform efficiently beyond these ranges.

Are LiFePO4 batteries suitable for deep-cycle applications like solar, marine, or RV systems?

LiFePO4 batteries are an excellent choice for deep-cycle applications thanks to their high cycle life, consistent voltage output, and depth-of-discharge capabilities. They also have fast charging characteristics, making them well-suited for renewable energy systems, marine applications, and recreational vehicles where reliability and longevity are essential.

How do I properly charge a LiFePO4 battery?

LiFePO4 batteries are an excellent choice for deep-cycle applications thanks to their high cycle life, consistent voltage output, and depth-of-discharge capabilities. They also have fast charging characteristics, making them well-suited for renewable energy systems, marine applications, and recreational vehicles where reliability and longevity are essential.

Are LiFePO4 batteries safe?

es. LiFePO4 chemistry is considered one of the safest lithium-ion battery options available. These batteries have a lower risk of thermal runaway, meaning they are less prone to overheating or catching fire. Proper use, charging, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines further enhance their safety profile.