HighLiFePO4 may earn from qualifying purchases made through clearly identified affiliate links. Our planning tools do not collect contact details. Learn more in our disclosure.
Calculator

Battery Runtime Estimator

Estimate how battery size and load affect runtime before you overbuy or underbuild.

Interactive estimate

LiFePO4 battery runtime calculator

Enter the average load and desired operating time. The estimate allows for inverter loss and unused reserve capacity.

Estimated minimum battery capacity5,556 WhApproximately 435 Ah at 12.8V nominal

Educational estimate only. Startup surges, temperature, cable loss, battery limits, and manufacturer requirements can change final capacity. Have critical and code-sensitive systems verified by a qualified professional.

How the runtime estimate works

Required watt-hours = average watts x hours, adjusted for efficiency and reserve. Use average demand for energy sizing, then check startup surge separately when the system powers motors, pumps, compressors, microwaves, or air conditioners.

Average loadEnergy for 8 hoursExample planning context
50W400WhRouter, lighting, and small electronics
200W1,600WhMixed electronics or an efficient refrigerator average
500W4,000WhSeveral controlled backup loads
1,000W8,000WhLarger backup loads; surge must also be checked

Improve the estimate before buying

  • Measure average watts over a representative operating period when possible.
  • Check startup surge and inverter continuous-power limits separately.
  • Include all simultaneous loads, conversion losses, and a capacity reserve.
  • Account for charging that may occur from solar, an alternator, shore power, or a generator.
  • Verify battery BMS current, charger compatibility, wiring, and protection requirements.
Runtime-planning offers

Top runtime-planning picks

These offers focus on backup and portable power options where load duration and outage expectations are driving the decision.

Some offers may open Amazon search results until a stable direct product page is confirmed.

Amazon

EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max Portable Power Station

Amazon
DELTA 2 Max Portable Power Station
2048WhPortable backupExpandable

Check Amazon

Verified product page

2048WhPortable backupExpandable
Amazon

Renogy 12V 100Ah Smart LiFePO4 Battery

Amazon
12V 100Ah Smart
12V100AhBluetooth app monitoring

Check Amazon

Verified product page

12V100AhBluetooth app monitoring
Amazon

Battle Born 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Battery

Amazon
12V 100Ah
Premium RV trust12V100Ah

Check Amazon

Verified product page

Premium RV trust12V100Ah
Amazon

Renogy 200W Solar Panel Kit

Amazon
200W Solar Panel Kit
200WSolar kitPortable/RV-friendly

Check Amazon

Verified product page

200WSolar kitPortable/RV-friendly