Are you frustrated that your Goal Zero Yeti 150 isn’t powering up, charging, or holding a charge? It’s incredibly disheartening when your portable power station fails, especially when you rely on it for camping, emergencies, or outdoor adventures. Fortunately, many Yeti 150 issues have simple fixes you can implement right away. A quick reset often solves the problem, but if that doesn’t work, don’t worry!
This comprehensive guide will walk you through a variety of troubleshooting steps, from basic checks to more advanced solutions, to get your Yeti 150 back up and running. We’ll cover common causes, detailed fixes, preventative maintenance, and when it’s time to call in the professionals. By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to resolve most issues and keep your Yeti 150 ready for your next power need.
Common Causes of Goal Zero Yeti 150 Issues
Several factors can cause problems with your Yeti 150. Here’s a breakdown of the most common:
- Low Battery: The most obvious culprit. The Yeti may appear “dead” if the battery is completely drained.
- Faulty Charger: The included charger, or a third-party charger, might be malfunctioning.
- Incorrect Charging: Using an incompatible charger or attempting to charge in extreme temperatures.
- Overload: Connecting devices that draw more power than the Yeti 150 can handle.
- Internal Error: Rare, but sometimes the Yeti 150’s internal system experiences a glitch.
- Dirty Ports: Dust or debris can interfere with the connection in the charging or output ports.
How to Fix Goal Zero Yeti 150 Problems
Here are several methods to fix your Yeti 150, ranging from simple to more complex:
Method 1: Basic Reset & Power Cycle
This is the first thing to try for almost any Yeti 150 issue.
Diagnosing the Issue
If the Yeti isn’t responding at all or is displaying an error, a reset is a good starting point.
Fix Steps
- Power Off: Press and hold the power button for 3-5 seconds to completely shut down the Yeti 150.
- Disconnect: Unplug the charger and all connected devices.
- Wait: Let the Yeti sit unplugged for 15-30 minutes. This allows any residual charge to dissipate.
- Reconnect & Power On: Plug in the charger and press the power button.
Testing
Observe if the Yeti powers on and begins charging.
Method 2: Check the Charger & Charging Cable
A faulty charger or cable is a common problem.
Diagnosing the Issue
If the Yeti isn’t charging, suspect the charger or cable first.
Fix Steps
- Inspect the Cable: Look for any visible damage to the charging cable, such as frays or bends. Try a different, known-good cable if possible.
- Test the Charger: If you have a multimeter, check the charger’s output voltage to ensure it’s within the specified range (typically 12V-24V).
- Try a Different Outlet: Rule out a faulty wall outlet by testing a different one.
- Use the Original Charger: The Yeti 150 is designed to work best with its included charger. Avoid using generic or low-quality chargers.
Testing
Monitor the Yeti’s charging indicator light to see if it illuminates when connected to a known-good charger and outlet.
Method 3: Address Overload Issues
The Yeti 150 has a limited output capacity.
Diagnosing the Issue
If the Yeti shuts down unexpectedly when connected to devices, overload is likely the cause.
Fix Steps
- Calculate Wattage: Determine the total wattage of all devices connected to the Yeti 150.
- Reduce Load: Disconnect some devices to lower the total wattage below the Yeti 150’s continuous output rating (100W). The surge rating is 150W, but prolonged use above 100W can cause issues.
- Prioritize Essential Devices: Only connect the devices you absolutely need.
Testing
Reconnect devices one by one, observing the Yeti’s behavior. If it remains stable with a reduced load, you’ve identified an overload issue.
Method 4: Resetting the Yeti’s BMS (Battery Management System)
This is a more advanced step reserved for persistent issues.
Diagnosing the Issue
If the Yeti displays unusual behavior, like rapidly draining or not recognizing a full charge, a BMS reset might be necessary. Important: This process can be risky if not performed correctly. Proceed with caution.
Fix Steps
- Fully Discharge: Allow the Yeti 150 to completely discharge until it shuts down on its own.
- Connect to Charger: Immediately connect the Yeti to its charger.
- Monitor: Let it charge continuously for at least 24 hours. This can help recalibrate the BMS.
Testing
Check if the charging behavior has normalized. The Yeti should now accurately display the battery level and charge correctly.
Prevention Tips and Maintenance Advice
To keep your Yeti 150 running smoothly:
- Store Properly: Store the Yeti in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Regular Charging: Charge the Yeti every 3-6 months, even if not in use, to prevent the battery from fully discharging.
- Clean the Ports: Use a dry cloth or compressed air to remove dust and debris from the charging and output ports.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Do not charge or discharge the Yeti in temperatures below freezing or above 104°F (40°C).
- Use Compatible Accessories: Only use Goal Zero-approved accessories and chargers.
Pro Tips for Goal Zero Yeti 150 Owners
- Battery Health: Lithium-ion batteries have a limited lifespan. Avoid fully discharging the Yeti frequently, as this can shorten its lifespan.
- Firmware Updates: Check the Goal Zero website for firmware updates, which can improve performance and address bugs.
- Long-Term Storage: When storing the Yeti for extended periods, charge it to around 60-80% capacity.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can damage the battery and other components.
- Understand Wattage: Always check the wattage requirements of your devices before connecting them to the Yeti.
- Monitor Temperature: If the Yeti feels excessively hot during use, disconnect all devices and let it cool down.
Professional Help
Here are signs that indicate it’s time to contact Goal Zero support or a qualified repair technician:
- Physical Damage: If the Yeti has been dropped or sustained physical damage.
- Swollen Battery: A swollen battery is a serious safety hazard. Discontinue use immediately and contact Goal Zero.
- Persistent Errors: If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the Yeti continues to malfunction.
- No Charging: If the Yeti refuses to charge even with a known-good charger and outlet.
Typical Cost Ranges for Repair: Repair costs vary depending on the issue and the technician. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200+ for repairs.
Warranty Considerations: The Goal Zero Yeti 150 typically comes with a 2-year warranty. Check your warranty documentation for specific coverage details.
FAQ
Q: Why won’t my Yeti 150 turn on?
A: First, try the basic reset (power cycle) described in Method 1. If that doesn’t work, ensure the battery isn’t completely drained and that the charger is functioning correctly.
Q: How long does it take to charge a Yeti 150?
A: With the included AC adapter, it takes approximately 6-8 hours to fully charge a completely discharged Yeti 150. Solar charging times vary depending on the solar panel wattage and sunlight conditions.
Q: Can I use a different charger than the one that came with the Yeti 150?
A: While you can use a third-party charger, it’s best to use the original Goal Zero charger to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. If you must use another charger, ensure it meets the Yeti’s voltage and amperage requirements.
Q: What does the “low battery” light mean?
A: The low battery light indicates that the Yeti’s battery level is critically low and needs to be recharged soon.
Q: My Yeti 150 is getting hot. Is this normal?
A: Some warmth is normal during charging and discharging. However, if the Yeti is excessively hot to the touch, disconnect all devices and let it cool down.
Get Your Goal Zero Yeti 150 Working Again
You’ve now explored a wide range of troubleshooting solutions for your Goal Zero Yeti 150. From simple resets to more advanced BMS recalibration, you’re equipped to handle most common issues. Remember to prioritize safety, follow the steps carefully, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed.
Have you successfully fixed your Yeti 150? Share your experience in the comments below to help other readers! What specific issue were you facing, and which solution worked for you?