Westinghouse iGen160s Portable Power Station

If I’ve learned anything from the last few hurricane seasons, preparation is the key. 

However, as prepared as I am with hurricane supplies like water, non-perishable foods, and flashlight batteries, my only downfall is that I do not own a full-house generator. You see, a generator is a big purchase and having to work it with gasoline is not in my comfort zone. However, as we’ve personally experienced, not having a back-up power system in the event of a power loss, is a disadvantage. 

Well not this year. I recently purchased a Westinghouse iGen160s Portable Power Station for $129.87 at Home Depot. It’s one of the less expensive models but it’s a start. 

Keeping Our Mobile Devices Charged is the Goal 

While many homeowners worry about keeping the refrigerator and televisions powered up, that is never my concern. Typically, we have multiple days to a week to prepare for a hurricane, so I immediately stop buying perishable food and begin cooking the perishable foods we do have. That frees up freezer space so that I can load up on bagged ice to place in coolers, should the power fail. 

So, why did I feel the need to purchase the Westinghouse iGen160s Portable Power Station? I bought it to keep our mobile phones charged during a power loss. That way, we can stay in constant communication with family, receive emergency-related news from local authorities, and get help if needed. In addition to acting as a power station, this device also works as a power inverter, reading light, and flashlight. 

Note: The power inverter feature converts DC power from a battery to AC power for various appliances. 

Portable Generator Without Fuel, Fumes, or Noise 

Like I mentioned, I bought this portable generator to charge our mobile devices, but it also charges lights, small battery chargers, and other small electronics. Don’t let this small device fool you. It’s portable so you can carry it where you need it. But it’s also a rugged piece of equipment from the Westinghouse brand, the company responsible for providing power to America for more than 100 years. 

Best of all, the Westinghouse iGen160s Portable Power Station is engineered without an engine so it provides clean power, a versatile silent power source that is maintenance-free. My neighbors have a gas generator, and it is LOUD! Even worse, due to non-use after the power came back, the neighbors are now having issues with their very expensive generator because of the unused fuel that remained in the tank. Apparently, when gas generators are done being used, the user is required to remove the remaining fuel. 

Features of the Westinghouse iGen160s Portable Power Station 

Offering 100 running watts and 150 peak watts, this power station is not only great for indoor use in the event of power outages, but it’s also designed for outdoor activities like sports tailgating, camping, or other outdoor events where you require a power supply. The convenient reading light and flashlight add versatility. 

Even better, it offers solar panel capability, meaning that it’s designed to work in unison with any solar panel that has a DC13V-25V/2A Max port.  

Features include: 

:: Ideal for indoor and outdoor use 
:: Compact – measures 7″ H x  8.14″ L x 3.77″ D 
:: Lightweight – only 3.75 lbs. 
:: Fits in vehicle storage compartment, closet, or garage 
:: Easy to read LCD display 
:: Access flashlight and reading lamp features with a push of a button 
:: Built-in handle for easy carrying or hang from a hook 
:: Control panel offers two household outlets and four USB ports, including a USB-C and QualComm Quick Charge 3.0 port for faster charging  
:: 150 peak watts/100 running watts 
:: 2-year limited warranty 
:: Model – iGen160s 
:: Color – Blue 

Charge Up to 9 Devices at One Time 

Of course, you need to stay on top of charging the Westinghouse iGen160s Portable Power Station. That way, it’s fully charged if and when you need it most. As I mentioned, hurricanes don’t form overnight so there is typically ample time to prepare. However, any local area can experience an unexpected power loss. We have been diligent in charging our power station so it’s ready for use. 

The Westinghouse iGen160s Portable Power Station offers 3 convenient charging methods: 

>> Plug it into a home outlet 
>> Plug it into an automobile port 
>> Connect it to solar panels (sold separately) 

The thought of charging up to nine devices is a huge blessing for our family. And the Westinghouse 150-Watt Lithium-Ion Portable Power Station pre-preparation is easy. Simply charge the power station using the included wall charger or car charger. It should fully charge in approximately six hours.  

The optional solar panel charger is something that we are currently looking into to accommodate long-term power outages. The Westinghouse 60-Watt Portable Solar Panel works with this iGen160s power station, allowing the sunshine to charge the power station. 

As for safety, rest assured, this Westinghouse power station features low voltage protection, short circuit protection, and overload protection that protects the battery and connected devices. 

It Will Power Your Individual Devices, Not the Entire House 

I can exist without watching television or using my computer during a power outage, but my anxiety goes through the roof watching my cell phone battery lose power, especially during an emergency. Now, having the Westinghouse iGen160s Portable Power Station in the house will give my family more peace of mind during future hurricane seasons. 

In the meantime, we have taken our power station to sporting events, the beach, picnics, and long car rides. We used it to charge our mobile devices, a laptop, and a small battery powered fan. It’s nice to know that the convenient, lightweight size will allow us to grab the power station when faced with unexpected emergencies or potential evacuation situations. 

This Westinghouse iGen160s Portable Power Station does what it needs to do. It’s quiet and safe.And – best yet – in an emergency situation, it keeps my cell phone working and me connected.