Quick Look: Ryobi RYi1802B6 / RYi802BT 40v Power Station

Quick Look: Ryobi RYi1802B6 / RYi802BT 40v Power Station
Big thanks to Ryobi and The Home Depot for sending me this sample to try.
Despite it's limitations, I really like the new Ryobi 40v Power Station. It really allows me extra use out of my 40v batteries. I was able to pull a full 1600w load, and this unit did not even hesitate. I had a real power outtage while testing this unit, and got to run it for real during a snow storm. I was able to easily run my pellet stove all day, and being able to swap batteries out without losing 120v power was really nice.
There is also an option to add a second Power Station to increase the capacity.
There are a couple short comings with this unit. The display is just terrible. It is a really cheap LCD display, and it only has a dummy bar to display the demand on the Station. The side buttons for the lamp, display light, and pairing button are really tough to press. I usually use a key to hit that tiny button.
You also cannot charge the batteries while using the inverter. If you plug in the charger, it switches to charge mode automatically.
The phone app is pretty nice. It gives a much better display than the built in display, and allows you to more easily operate the side buttons.
This is definitely intended for home indoor use. There is a large font recommendation on the box saying it is for indoor use. There are also warnings not to use it in direct sunlight or cold environments. It does come with a cover, which actually surprised me. The cover is the hideous Ryobi green.
Please also visit my other channel Morning Wood:
/ @youroldpalfernbark
As with any do-it-yourself project, unfamiliarity with the tools and process can be dangerous. This video should be construed as non expert, informational advice. I, will not be held responsible for any injury or damage due to the misuse or misunderstanding of any DIY project or videos. By Watching or following anything in this video, you assume all risks associated with using the experimental information or advice given, with a full understanding that you, solely, are responsible for anything that may occur as a result of putting this information into action in any way, and regardless of your interpretation of the advice.

[@FernbarkFrist]

Here is a link to the Power Station: www.homedepot.com/p/RYOBI-40-Volt-1800-Watt-Power-Station-Lithium-Battery-Inverter-Push-Start-Generator-4-Port-Charger-RYi1802B6/308738209?NCNI-5

[@anwin85alon]

pmme

[@randomlytracy2291]

Great review and demonstration. I can see this coming in handy for all types of projects and emergencies. Take care bud!

[@FernbarkFrist]

I actually used it four days ago when I lost power during the snow storm.

[@leah890]

Excellent and thorough as always. My favorite product reviewer😁 android and iPhone comparison on the app was appreciated

[@FernbarkFrist]

An even more thorough video is coming soon.

[@dubc3615]

I really like the blue tooth app on phone. Overall solid product for Ryobi I do wish that you could see wattage like you mentioned but not a deal breaker. Awesome Review.

[@FernbarkFrist]

The phone app is really handy since it is super difficult to see or operate the unit while it is on the ground.

[@shovelhead8]

It would be nice to have if the power went off when you were watching a movie. Thank you for showing it to us, Fernbark. Stay safe and stay warm

[@FernbarkFrist]

That would be cool. It was also nice to have it to run my pellet stove so I could stay warm while watching a movie! Which it did!

[@59chevt]

Another great demo thanks..

[@FernbarkFrist]

Thanks. Then you are really going to like the ten minute version when I finish it.

[@SmittyMRE]

That’s a pretty neat deal. I can see the task light being beneficial for night-elk navigation

[@FernbarkFrist]

The flashing red light especially to warn the elk of drop offs and decorative plants.

[@pacificbushcraftandfirecra6358]

Seems pretty cool... like the inverter feature.

[@FernbarkFrist]

I like the inverter feature too!

[@danielbuchanan756]

Well hopefully Ryobi puts it out soon! Been waiting a long time! Hope Ryobi can get us some 10 ah batteries to match capability with the ego nexus.

[@FernbarkFrist]

You and me both!. Larger capacity batteries would be nice.

[@ScottDLR]

Currently $800 with two 6 AH batts at Home Depot.

[@jamesnikola9686]

I like this a lot and waited a while for it to come out. I am torn between the ego nexus one and this one. The nexus is of course more expensive but is able to accept a larger total capacity of batteries and it will inherently be more efficient as it operates at a higher initial voltage. Great review, appreciate it.

[@FernbarkFrist]

Your choice will depend a lot on whether you already have one of the battery platforms, or which of their tool line you are interested in. I already have a bunch of 40v items so.... But I do like the Ego, just didn’t want another set of batteries.

[@nikjim13]

Yeah I don't have either of any right now so just the same for me getting a new kit.

[@greggoldstein8565]

Great review exactly what I was looking for... now if it will sale for a reasonable price.. under $700.

[@FernbarkFrist]

I really wish I knew what the price will be. I've seen sites that predict $699, but I have no idea how accurate that is.

[@jknewb6276]

This is pretty cool I think this could be useful for long RC events!?

[@FernbarkFrist]

Definitely! I think you could recharge your RC batteries many times with one of these. And phones and other items.

[@dfloyd888]

I hope it goes for sale soon. It and its little brother with the 20 volt batteries will be quite useful.

[@FernbarkFrist]

I can't even find any information about it on the Home Depot site. Hoping they release it soon.

[@jasmynguo4823]

Your videos are creative and inspiring, so I want to send some products to you for review

[@FernbarkFrist]

Please do!

[@danielholovacko5984]

2 quick questions - did you say you were able to swap out a battery while you were using the inverter ? Also, any plans on updating the video with a sample of watts used and runtime ?

[@FernbarkFrist]

You can swap out batteries while running. You have to be a little careful, because you need to make sure the batteries left plugged in can handle the load. But I did a hot swap while running my pellet stove, and it didn't blink. I do plan to do a longer video, but run times will greatly very based on the batteries used. It is pretty straight forward math though. If you have four 216wh batteries, that is 852wh. If I am running my 80w pellet stove, I should get about ten hours of run time. Run times will vary depending on how load the power station with batteries.

[@tracyphillips3325]

That would be a great power station to have. Before you said how much the batteries cost, I was going to guess around $500 with two batteries. I like Ryobi products. Great review and demonstration.

[@FernbarkFrist]

I would guess closer to $700 with the batteries. Still a good deal, especially if you compare it to other power stations.

[@henrysantiago5997]

Its $800 with two batteries

[@FernbarkFrist]

@@henrysantiago5997 Where did you get that information? $800 with two batteries isn't too bad compared to the competition.

[@RiPCORD100]

It's 799 on home depot site but sold out

[@Glocktard]

Thanks for the video. I’ve waited a long time for Ryobi to release this and I almost bought this last night,, but. It’s $799.99 With only two 6amp batteries. slowest recharging ability of those batteries with that little charger. So.. Ryobi lower the price a lot or include more powerful 7.5amp batteries and design it with the rapid recharger you sell.

[@FernbarkFrist]

It charges at the same speed as their regular charger, but seems longer cause four batteries. They have a 240w charger but I have not tried it yet. If it charged all four at the same time at 80w, that would be great.

[@davesdiversions8078]

That's a pretty impressive Power Station. I am curious what the cost will be since my family is in the market for some type of emergency power supply. Thanks for the review.

[@FernbarkFrist]

Good question! There isn't much information about it, but I am looking forward to it hitting the stores so I can try out the parallel feature.

[@maddeusdoggeus1]

If you’re looking for emergency backup then something from Jackery or Bluetti would give you So much more bang for your buck plus the ability to charge it with solar panels in “Emergencies” that last more than say a couple hours which is what this thing will do and then be Kaput.

[@JohnDrivesAnything]

I got into the entry level solar powerstations recently. Im surprised this doesn't tell you how many watts your running or how much watts your taking in when you're charging it.

[@FernbarkFrist]

It is a huge bummer. Really pisses me off actually. The display is pretty much crap. If I didn't already have a bunch of these batteries, I would find this almost useless.

[@jasonbroom7147]

Did you ever buy a 2nd one to try out the parallel function? Does that allow split-phase power at 1,800 or does it just double the run-time of the existing solution?

[@FernbarkFrist]

I did buy a second one and I already owned the connector. It allows you to up the amperage, but not the voltage. You can run 30 amps at 120v, but you cannot run 240v loads. It does allow you to double the run time if you are running a load that one unit could do by itself. Hope this helps

[@jasonbroom7147]

@@FernbarkFrist - Yep, that's very good to know...thanks! :)

[@mr.happydays9645]

Ryobi says you can parallel it with the gas inverter generators as well

[@jfraz6246]

I wonder if you can charge it via portable solar. Interested to see the price

[@FernbarkFrist]

You can charge with solar only if you have the solar hooked to a different charge controller and inverter. There aren't any provisions to charge it other than with the included charger.

[@kelvinkuwik4395]

The Ryboi multiport 18v and 40v battery chargers only charge the batteries one at a time (sequentially), but the Ryobi web site indicates that this unit will charge all 4 batteries simultaneously (rather than sequentially as mentioned in this video). Otherwise, good review!

[@FernbarkFrist]

The site is incorrect. I have charged batteries a couple times and it does it in sequence. The manual also states it charges in sequence. You can read it on the Ryobi site.

[@kelvinkuwik4395]

@@FernbarkFrist I got into that same discussion in one of the Ryobi Facebook groups, and it appears I am outnumbered as one of the people in that group mentioned that the Owner's manual for that tool says it is sequential charging as well!

[@FernbarkFrist]

@@kelvinkuwik4395 Also, my real life experience shows that to be the case. I demonstrated it in my original cut of this video, but my sponsor requires the video to be under five minutes, so I could not show everything.

[@wt9653]

Good thing I bought Ego. 3000 watt peak/2000 watt continuous. I paid 799.00 with two 7.5ah batteries. Its now solar chargeable and 10ah batteries are also available.

[@wt9653]

@@stephenvieira4309 What? Go and read the specs on Ego Nexus 3000w. It's pure sinewave.Just the Ego 150w is modified.. Most premium, like Jackery, Bluetti, Milwaukee, and others are all pure sinewave. Just the older Dewalt is still modified.

[@stephenvieira4309]

@@wt9653 I stand corrected.

[@davidurdahl6656]

Now they need to make a 18v version of this.

[@cujoedaman]

I agree, someone at Ryobi wasn't thinking clearly when they made this, more people will have 18v batteries

[@davidurdahl6656]

@@cujoedaman Yup. This dude here on the tubes hacked an 18v 6 bay "super charger" into a power station, but thats too much work for me. I have like 15 batteries, mostly 4 volt, I could put them to really good use if there was one of these for them.

[@cujoedaman]

@@davidurdahl6656 lol, yeah, I already seen that one, I just wanted to see what this was about :D

[@davidurdahl6656]

@@cujoedaman same.

[@coryulrich6489]

They did, it takes one battery and isn't good.

[@rh3309]

It was huge mistake in my opinion not making this compatible with the 18v one plus system, especially with all the free tool with purchase of a battery kit deals they have been running for the last 3 years. I have over 30 of their 18v batteries and would buy this in a second if it was 18v compatible.

[@FernbarkFrist]

Hopefully they will come up with a cool adapter that lets you plug two 18's together to get the needed voltage.

[@rh3309]

@@FernbarkFrist Yeah that would be the right way to go

[@thelooksmaxingchannel4806]

If you load it up with 7.5 amp hour batteries can it run a 15 amp table saw?

[@FernbarkFrist]

You would probably need to link two of them together to be able to do that.

[@gunmetlx7917]

Do you think this would run a 1/2 HP sump pump?

[@FernbarkFrist]

It will run anything that uses less than 1600 watts, and doesn't have a surge of over 3000 watts.

[@DanielGomez-cf6vk]

I bought the rapid Charger for those batteries

[@FernbarkFrist]

Not a bad idea. That sequential charger takes all day if the batteries are totally drained.

[@DanielGomez-cf6vk]

@@FernbarkFrist couldn’t agree more

[@chrisanderson8553]

will the 7.5 amp battery fit? doesnt look like it

[@FernbarkFrist]

Yes. It will fit.

[@skywarrior28]

What do you think would be better? The gas powered Bluetooth 2,300 Starting Watt ONE+ 18-Volt Electric Start Gasoline Powered Digital Inverter Generator or this?

[@FernbarkFrist]

Really depends on your needs. The gas model will run longer on a full tank than four six amp batteries will work with a full electrical load. The gas is noisier and needs to run outside. The 40v is quiet and can run inside.

[@skywarrior28]

​@@FernbarkFrist Do you have any more run time stats on your personal use? I was kind of thinking the same thing. It is nice to be able to power it on the inside. That is a huge advantage for ease of use. I have a collection of Ryobi and I will continue to expand on it. So its nice that it comes with 2 40V batteries and can double as a centralized charger for the batteries. I use them for my push mower and I have a 300W power inverter. But once this thing goes out, it goes out. And how long does it take to charge? A gas generator will keep going and going provided you have gas. The ryobi 2300W electrical start generator will run as long as you have gas. So if you have 5 gallons of gas nearby it gets you about a days worth. I am from North Texas. As you know we had issues with all the above last week. Haha! I might get both. I'll have the extra wattage and the mobility in the house without having to string out extension cords everywhere. We have a 5000 sq/ft house. Great video by the way.

[@hannahc.342]

How did you get it? It’s not available anywhere.

[@FernbarkFrist]

I am lucky enough to be able to try out some products before they hit the stores.

[@jamesnikola9686]

@@FernbarkFrist Seed program, lucky guy right there

[@judyl.761]

@@FernbarkFrist , Does that mean your reviews are biased?

[@FernbarkFrist]

@@judyl.761 No. I noted a number of things I don't like about this unit. I would not buy this unless you have a bunch of these batteries already, or were going to invest in a bunch of Ryobi 40v outdoor equipment.

[@carrottop3454]

It would be nice if they come up with a way to charge it from solar. Ego already did.

[@FernbarkFrist]

There are several flaws to the way this devise operates. Hard to believe it in a product in this price range.

[@TFSGEO]

Thanks for this video! That thumb interference would be quite annoying if you had large hands and were wearing gloves.

[@FernbarkFrist]

Yes. They are hard to press, and the bottom of the unit is slick, so the unit will slide while trying to press the buttons.

[@rafaelmolina123]

It should be also compatible for solar charging

[@FernbarkFrist]

That would be nice. It should be at this price point.

[@rh3309]

Is this in stock yet?

[@FernbarkFrist]

Yes. Did you use the link at the top?

[@user.A9]

pure sine or modified?

[@FernbarkFrist]

Pure sine. But it is noisy.

[@DanielGomez-cf6vk]

Is this out yet

[@FernbarkFrist]

Not that I am aware of. Hopefully soon.

[@RiPCORD100]

Sold out 799

[@FernbarkFrist]

Thanks!

[@williamallen5369]

Back in stock now. I'd like to see this offered as a stand only unit for about $399~ or some where close.

[@robslagle]

is there a place to connect it to a solar charge controller?

[@FernbarkFrist]

No, the only way to recharge batteries is to plug in the 120v charger, or pull the batteries out and charge them off the unit.

[@robslagle]

@@FernbarkFrist if your solar generator had a 120v plug I guess you could charge it that way.

[@FernbarkFrist]

That is how I run my solar system. I don't really have anything that takes a direct line from a solar panel. So, in this case, I would use the pile of chargers I have from my tools and charge the batteries during the day with those, and be all set at night with the Power Station.

[@carllubrin8518]

Here in oz it’s 900 :( with no battery

[@FernbarkFrist]

Bummer.

[@carllubrin8518]

@@FernbarkFrist that’s why I pick ryobi tho the other brands are in the 500-1k mark

[@truckermre]

What’s the weight of this? I’m sure you’ll give me shit for not watching... which I didn’t...

[@FernbarkFrist]

I wouldn't give you shit for not watching. Retention statistics indicate that no one watches. I would, however, give you grief about being too big a p*ss to drive over the Rockies.

[@tracyphillips3325]

@@FernbarkFrist your retention statistics are a little bit off, I know at least two that watch, from start to finish

[@Bwanar1]

Not near enough capacity. At it's running load, it will only last 30 minutes with 4 batteries. These things have a long way to come to compare to a generator.

[@flyingtentacle7631]

if you use it for occasional power outages, 30 minutes is longer than I've ever used my gas generator. I usually just sit in the dark when the power goes out because hooking up the generator and running a cord into the house is a pain. These battery units just sit in the house and power a small light, router or a laptop, maybe 100 watts in total and let you keep working like normal until the power is back. For frequent worksite usage, yea, obviously a gas generator will outperform this.

[@Bwanar1]

@@flyingtentacle7631 Ours are much longer, we also need to run a lot more. We have gone several days without power.

[@FernbarkFrist]

It is good for running the fridge at night, then charge it up with a gas generator during the day when the noise of the generator isn't such an issue.

[@Bwanar1]

@@FernbarkFrist Yes Sir. I use mine a lot, just not going to replace a generator anytime soon, for my use anyway. On a similar note, I use mine often for running fans during the night without the noise of the generator. Or running the outside kit. frig on a trip, while traveling.

[@grindychum]

This unit does not supply pass thru charging.

[@FernbarkFrist]

Correct

[@dedsert9653]

huge rip off if you're looking for battery powered backup.

[@niceguy60]

Those lithium batteries are expensive and proprietary, 7 years from now they will be discontinue and hard to find. Lithium batteries by their nature are highly problematic in the medium run and will act up even with light use and proper care. It's cheaper and more reliable long run to just use a inverter with deep cycle battery.

[@FernbarkFrist]

It's pretty hard to run my lawn mower, hedge trimmer, and weed whip with a deep cycle battery. I run my vacation property on solar power. I am not so sure you are correct on the cheaper and more reliable statement either. If you don't like Lithium batteries, did you come to this video just to be a dick?

[@niceguy60]

@@FernbarkFrist I was watching inverter vids and yours came up. I am not following your logic with deep cycle battery, the one I use is 100ah with a 2000w pure sine wave inverter. Long term when the deep cycle battery goes bad it is easily replaced as opposed to a proprietary battery pack.

[@FernbarkFrist]

Thanks for watching my vid. These Ryobi battery packs have been around for years, and Ryobi just launched a new line of products for this battery form factor. I am not worried about the proprietary packs going away any time soon. But yes, if you are starting from zero, this would not be my first choice. If you have a bunch of these batteries that you use for lawn care, then this is a nice option to have for camping, tailgating, or short power outages.

[@anwin85alon]

pmme