Backup by Biolite Review: A Cool Idea

BioLite’s Backup system is a modular battery designed to keep a refrigerator running during a power cut, offering a simpler, lower-cost alternative to a whole-house battery. The reviewer found it capable and reassuring, though its usefulness is limited by the power and appliances it can support.

The Core unit stores 1,526 watt-hours and delivers up to 1,800 watts, with peak surges of 3,000 watts; an Extend unit can bring a two-battery setup to 3,072 watt-hours and, depending on the fridge, up to 60 hours of operation. Units plug into a standard 120-volt outlet and can be installed without an electrician, but each weighs about 40 pounds, and tight spaces or awkward mounting positions can make installation difficult.