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How Long Will a Power Station Run a Mini Split?

Mini splits draw about 600 W on average (1,000 W running, 1,200 W start-up). A 1,000 Wh power station runs one for about 1.4 h. See every popular model below, or calculate with your exact device.

Runtime by power station

Before you start: Many mini splits of 18,000 BTU and up run on 240 V and are hardwired. Check the outdoor unit's label. A 120 V model on a dedicated outlet is the easiest to back up; otherwise you need a transfer switch installed by an electrician.

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Power stationCapacity (Wh)Runtime (h)Can start it?
EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus286–✗ needs 1,200 WPrice
Jackery Explorer 300 v2288–✗ needs 1,200 WPrice
EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro768–✗ needs 1,200 WPrice
EcoFlow DELTA 31,0241.5 h✓Price
Anker SOLIX C1000X1,0561.5 h✓Price
Jackery Explorer 1000 v21,0701.5 h✓Price
BLUETTI AC1801,1521.6 h✓Price
EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max2,0482.9 h✓Price
Jackery HomePower 2000 Plus v22,0482.9 h✓Price
EcoFlow DELTA Pro3,6005.1 h✓Price
Anker SOLIX F3800 Plus3,8405.4 h✓Price

Best picks for a night of cooling or heating

Largest + add battery

Anker SOLIX F3800 Plus

  • 3,840 Wh · 6,000 W output
  • Solar input up to 3,200 W
  • 136.7 lb · expandable

Runs a mini split ≈ 5.4 h

Check price on Amazon
Alternative + add battery

EcoFlow DELTA Pro

  • 3,600 Wh · 3,600 W output
  • Solar input up to 1,600 W
  • 99 lb · expandable

Runs a mini split ≈ 5.1 h

Check price on Amazon

How we calculate it

Runtime = capacity (Wh) × 0.85 ÷ 600 W

For a night of cooling or heating you need about 5,650 Wh (4,800 Wh of energy plus inverter losses). Running other devices at the same time? Add them in the runtime calculator.

Tips to run your mini split longer

  • Inverter mini splits start softly, so they need far less surge than a window AC of the same size.
  • Once the room reaches the set temperature, a 12,000 BTU unit often drops to 300–600 W. Pre-cool or pre-heat while you still have grid power.
  • In heat-pump mode on very cold days, consumption rises sharply. Set it a few degrees lower and use blankets.

Frequently asked questions

How long will a 1000Wh power station run a mini split?

About 1.4 h, based on an average draw of 600 W and 85% inverter efficiency.

How many watts does a mini split use?

Typically about 1,000 W while running and up to 1,200 W for a moment at start-up. Averaged over time it draws about 600 W because it cycles on and off.

What size power station do I need for a night of cooling or heating?

About 5,650 Wh, more than most single units. Consider an expandable model with extra batteries, solar recharging, or a generator.

More runtime guides

By The PlanMyWatts team · Last updated 2026-11-03 · How we calculate · Product specs from manufacturers; verify before buying.