(Video) How to Power a Mobile Clinic

The first and easiest step is to plug your mobile unit into shore power. You can simply connect it to an outlet on the side of a building. This is great for urban mobile clinics that are always near power. Of course, make sure you have permission before running your mobile clinic off the building’s electricity. To do this, locate the receptacle on the outside of the mobile unit, use an extension cord rated for up to 15 amps and suitable for outdoor use, and plug it into both the unit and the building’s power source.

If you’re buying a generator separately, there are some things you need to know. Choose one with at least 1800 watts of output for a basic mobile unit. Pick a generator that’s easy to move around and quiet enough to keep the environment comfortable for patients. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and plug the generator into the shore power connection on the side of your unit. If you purchase through AVAN Mobility, starting your generator is simple: turn the switch on, put the choke on, start it up, and then set your dial to “generator.”

Solar panels keep your unit powered without needing to plug in. This gives your team flexibility, as many clinics use more than one option—shore power when parked, solar panels to extend the day, and a generator for backup when off-grid. No matter where your team goes, solar ensures your mobile unit continues running while also reducing reliance on outside power sources.