Goal Zero’s new Yeti 1500 power station charges faster and has more juice to keep you powered up, no matter where you are.In the realm of portable power stations, the Yeti 1500 from Goal Zero is a game-changer. This power station, a successor to the previous model, comes with a plethora of ports that are standard for its class. However, it’s the addition of the 140-W USB port that sets it apart, offering a new and highly beneficial feature for users.
The Yeti 1500 truly outshines its competitors with its 12-V charging options. Among these is a high-power 12-V port capable of a 30 amp output. This is a significant feature, especially for those who own vans or overlanding vehicles. It means that the Yeti 1500 can be directly connected to your house power 12-V distribution panel, making it an integral part of your vehicle’s power system.
In addition to this, the Yeti 1500 also offers standard Anderson connector outputs and a cigarette-lighter-style outlet. These features make it a versatile power station, capable of meeting a wide range of power needs.
Charging the Yeti 1500 is a breeze, with three different methods available. The first is through AC wall power, which can charge at up to 1,800 watts. This means you can go from zero to full charge in just over an hour. If you’re at a campground, where the power supply may not be able to handle the full draw, there’s a switch to reduce the charge to 1,500 W.
The second charging method is through solar panels. The Yeti 1500 can be hooked up to a maximum of 900 watts of solar panels. It comes with both 8-mm inputs and HPP inputs for Goal Zero solar panels. However, you’re not limited to using Goal Zero panels. With the right adapters, you can use just about any solar panel, as long as you stick within the charging limits.
The third charging method is through the rear charging panel, which is also where you’ll find the ground lug for semi-permanent installs in a vehicle or off-grid tiny home.
One of the standout features of the Yeti 1500 is the Yeti app from Goal Zero. This app allows you to control the system from your phone, even from the other side of the world if your battery is connected to your Wi-Fi. The app provides basic battery status, current power draw, charge profile options, and some charge and discharge history information.
For many years, I’ve relied on the Yeti 1500 as a supplemental power source. It’s powered everything from power tools to space heaters to full-size refrigerators. It’s also served as a backup for my RV when I needed to work on the built-in system. Throughout all this time, it’s never let me down.
In my experience, the Yeti 1500 strikes the perfect balance between portability and power. It’s heavy, but the dual handles make it easy to carry. I’ve also tested the 1000X and the 500X models, which, while lighter and smaller, lack some of the features that make the 1500 great.
In conclusion, the Yeti 1500 is a versatile, reliable, and powerful portable power station. Whether you’re on a camping trip, living off-grid, or simply need a backup power source, the Yeti 1500 is a worthy investment. Its range of features, ease of use, and robust performance make it a standout in its class.
