Grant Mercer

Grant Mercer is the founding editor of Power Backup Lab. He leads the site's research process and editorial standards across backup power, portable power stations, home battery systems, and outage preparedness. The Power Backup Lab approach does not rely on marketing claims. Every recommendation is built from three sources: official manufacturer specifications, independent lab and field testing published by trusted third parties, and verified feedback from real owners who live with these products day to day. The goal is simple and practical guidance, with no hype, so readers can choose the right backup power setup for their home and budget.

Anker SOLIX C1000 Review: The Fast-Charging Champion?

July 22, 2026 by Grant Mercer

The Anker SOLIX C1000 charges to 80 percent in 43 minutes and runs 1,800W loads. Our review covers specs, runtimes, and honest downsides.

Bluetti AC180 Review: The Sweet Spot for Home Backup?

July 26, 2026July 21, 2026 by Grant Mercer

The Bluetti AC180 pairs 1,152Wh with an 1,800W inverter at a bargain street price. Our review weighs its strengths against one real tradeoff.

Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Review: Is It Worth It in 2026?

July 20, 2026 by Grant Mercer

The Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 brings LFP cells, 1,500W output, and one-hour charging. Our review covers who it fits and where it falls short.

EcoFlow River 2 Pro Review: Still the Best Budget Power Station in 2026?

July 17, 2026 by Grant Mercer

Is the EcoFlow River 2 Pro still worth it in 2026? Our research-based review covers specs, real limitations, and who should buy it.

How to Prepare Your Home for Extended Power Outages (3 to 14 Days)

July 16, 2026July 12, 2026 by Grant Mercer

Family prepared for an extended power outage

A layered plan for multi-day outages: water, food, power, heat, communication and sanitation, with a 7-day winter outage walkthrough.

How to Keep Food Safe During a Power Outage (Fridge & Freezer Guide)

July 16, 2026July 12, 2026 by Grant Mercer

Keeping food safe during a power outage

How long your fridge and freezer really stay safe, what to toss and what to keep, and how to stretch cold storage through a long outage.

Manual vs Automatic Transfer Switch: What’s the Difference and Which Do You Need?

July 16, 2026July 12, 2026 by Grant Mercer

Electrician installing a transfer switch

Manual switch, automatic switch or interlock kit: costs, code rules and which connection method fits your generator setup.

Is a Home Battery Backup Worth It Without Solar Panels?

September 5, 2026July 12, 2026 by Grant Mercer

Home battery without solar panels

A home battery works without solar. Whether it is worth it depends on three value streams, and this guide runs the real numbers.

Best Whole-House Battery Backup Systems in 2026 (Complete Guide)

July 16, 2026July 12, 2026 by Grant Mercer

The best whole-house battery systems compared: Tesla, Enphase, Franklin and more, with honest sizing advice for real homes.

How Much Does a Home Battery Backup System Cost? (With and Without Solar)

July 16, 2026July 12, 2026 by Grant Mercer

Home battery backup system cost quote

Installed prices, the 30 percent federal tax credit, incentives and a 10-year cost comparison against a standby generator.