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Surviving Power Outages in Mexico: A Remote Worker’s Guide

If you're new to Mexico and working remotely, here's one thing you're going to learn fast:


The power grid isn't always your friend.


Here in Mérida, where I live, it's not unusual to lose electricity once a week, sometimes for just a few minutes, other times for a few days. And with the city growing faster than its power infrastructure, this reality isn’t going away anytime soon.


Now, if you're just watching Netflix, that might be a minor inconvenience. But if you’re in the middle of a client call or racing toward a work deadline, an outage can cost you more than comfort, it can cost you money.


Let me walk you through how I keep my internet, computer, and core comforts running no matter what the grid decides to do. I’ll break it down into three levels of protection, explain how I use zones in my home to prioritize power, and share exactly what gear I use here in Mexico.



First, What Do You Actually Need to Keep Running?

Before you go buying any gear, you’ve got to get clear on your priorities. For most remote workers, that starts with:

  • Internet connection

  • Computer or laptop

  • A reliable light source


If you’re teaching, streaming, or doing Zoom calls at night, lighting is non-negotiable. And if you're living anywhere hot and humid (hello, Mérida), then keeping air moving is right up there with keeping the Wi-Fi on. That usually means one or two fans.


After that, most folks want to keep the fridge running so their food doesn’t spoil and let’s be honest, no one wants warm beer during a blackout.



Not All Outages Are Equal

The power might flicker for just 10 seconds… or go out for 10 hours. So your strategy needs to scale depending on how long you’re in the dark.


Level 1 – Short Outages (Under 30 Minutes)

This is the most common kind. Power dips for a few seconds or minutes, then snaps back. No big deal unless you lose your Zoom call or crash your unsaved project.


That’s why a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) or what folks here call a “no break”—is your best friend. It’ll keep your internet and computer alive long enough to ride out the blip or shut down gracefully if needed.


🧰 What I use: A Barracuda UPS (~$100 USD)



Level 2 – Medium Outages (30 Minutes to 6 Hours)

This is where things get real. A UPS can’t carry you through this. You’ll need more muscle, enter the Solar Power Station.


Why Solar Power Stations?

Modern stations use LiFePO₄ batteries, which are safer and longer-lasting than the older lithium-ion ones. You can charge them via solar panels, a wall outlet, or even your car’s DC plug.


Many come with pass-through charging, which means they work like a UPS: they power your gear while charging, and instantly take over when the power drops.


My unit handles up to 1,500W and expands to 3,000W with an extra battery.



How Long Will It Run?

With just my office gear (internet + computer + one fan), I draw about 100 watts. That gives me 11 hours of runtime.


But if the outage stretches on? Now you’re into Level 3 territory.


Level 3 – Long Outages (6+ Hours)

When the power's out for more than 6 hours, especially overnight or during a storm, you’ll want a backup that can handle bigger loads and recharge your power station.


That’s where a gas-powered inverter generator comes in.


Why Not Just Use a Generator from the Start?

Great question. Generators are powerful but they’re loud, dirty, and come with serious risks:

  • Carbon monoxide is deadly. You can’t run these indoors or even near open windows.

  • Fuel isn’t always available. During hurricanes or major outages, gas stations often lose power too.

  • Old gas goes bad. Storing fuel too long can damage your generator or become a fire hazard.


So I save the generator for when I truly need it like recharging my solar power station or keeping the fridge cold for the long haul.


🧰 What I use: A second-hand 2,000W inverter generator (~$800+ new, depending on brand)


My Backup Power Strategy: Levels + Zones

I break my system into levels of response and zones around my home, so I always know what gets powered and when.


🔋 The Levels

  • Level 1: Short outages – just the office (UPS)

  • Level 2: Up to 6 hours – office + kitchen (solar station)

  • Level 3: 6+ hours – rotate zones as needed, use generator to recharge solar and power fridge/fans


🏠 The Zones

Zone

Devices

Watts

Priority

Office

Internet, computer, monitor

~93W

🔥 Top priority

Kitchen

Refrigerator, networking gear

~200W

✅ Essential

Bedroom

Fans, chargers, emergency lights

~120W

💨 Comfort

Living Room

TV, fans

~200W

💤 Optional

Patio

TV, Deco M5, fans

~260W

🚫 Lowest

By breaking things into zones, I can rotate devices based on runtime, comfort, and what’s absolutely necessary rather than trying to power everything at once.



Want to Build Your Own Power Plan?

Here’s how to start, step by step:


Step 1 – Identify Your Essentials

What do you really need? For most folks, it's internet, lighting, a fridge, and fans.


Step 2 – Collect Power Ratings

Take pictures of the power labels on every device you want to use. I ran the numbers through AI to estimate real-world usage.


Step 3 – Group Into Zones

Group devices by room or function. This helps you prioritize and manage runtime when you're on limited power.


Step 4 – Get the Gear

Buy the right tools for your actual needs. Skip the A/C unless you’re ready to wire into your home (that’s a whole separate project).


What It Cost Me

Let’s talk real numbers:


A solid starter setup can run you around $1,600. You can find most of this gear here in Mexico, but if you're driving down from the States, you might save a bit by buying there, just be mindful of what you can legally import.


Final Tips from the Field

  • Use proper extension cords. I use 12 AWG heavy-duty cables to run power safely from the generator outside.

  • Separate outlets from cable reels. Home Depot was charging over $200 USD for a combo. I got my setup cheaper by buying the parts separately on Amazon.

  • Test your system ahead of time. Don’t wait until the lights go out to learn how your gear works.


Wrapping Up

That’s my full power outage plan, from quick blips to days-long blackouts.


Got questions about building your own system? Curious about the brands I use? Leave a comment below or send me a message. I’d love to hear what you’re working with.


And if you’re living in Mexico or planning a move soon, make sure your power plan is part of your relocation checklist. This isn’t just about staying online, it’s about protecting your time, income, and peace of mind.


Dream. Plan. Live.



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