As the usage of solar energy is increasing, there are plenty of benefits to installing solar battery backup systems for homes. Firstly, home battery storage systems can store excess solar energy, which can be used at night or during power outages and emergencies.
With home battery storage systems, one can reduce their dependence on the power grid and also save money on electricity bills. Not only that, solar battery systems increase energy security and home value. Let’s explore the best home battery backup systems and learn how to choose the best solar battery backup system for home.
How to Choose the Right Home Solar System
In the current market, there are plenty of battery home storage models, making it difficult for people to choose from. That is why we have listed some of the vital factors that one should pay attention to when choosing the best solar battery backup system for the home.
Battery Capacity
One needs to consider the capacity of the battery because it determines how much energy the battery can store and how long it can supply power to homes during outages. It is best to calculate daily energy use and peak usage.
Home storage energy systems range from 5kWh to 60kWh, and it is recommended to buy a battery backup system that features at least 10kWh. Mark sure to opt for a solar battery system with a higher battery capacity for higher energy needs and if one wants to power their home for a long period during outages.
Type of Solar Battery
There are 4 different types of solar batteries, which are: lead-acid and lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, and flow batteries. Lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries are commonly used solar batteries. Lead-acid batteries are highly affordable but have lower lifespan and lower capacity. Lithium-ion batteries are known for their high efficiency and long lifespan but are expensive.
Lifespan
Lifespan indicates how long the solar battery can last before it needs to be replaced. Depending on the type of battery technology, the lifespan of the batteries will vary. It is best to opt for solar batteries that operate at least 10,000 cycles and have an average 10-year lifespan.
Round-Trip Efficiency
When the energy is stored in the battery and is converted from DC to AC, a significant amount of power is lost. Round-trip efficiency is the power that is lost during charging and discharging. As it impacts the usable stored energy, it is recommended to go for a battery with higher round-trip efficiency.
Cost
Solar battery systems for homes are available at various price points. The price of these energy systems varies greatly based on several factors like battery type, capacity of the battery, brand, design complexity, and many more. It is best not to choose a home battery system solely based on the price.
BLJ Solar All-in-one Battery Energy Storage System
Key Specifications:
- Battery Capacity: 4.8 kWh
- Rated Power: 5000W
- Battery Type: LiFePO4
- Weight: 77 kg
- Dimensions: 380 x 380 x 750 mm
This is an all-in-one energy storage system with a compact design and a decent 4.8 kWh capacity. The battery life cycle is ≥6000, and the discharge temperature is -20 degrees Celsius to 60 degrees Celsius. It has an IP21 enclosure, an easy-to-use LCD interface, and multiple ports. One can install this battery system easily and control it via a remote app.
Pros:
- Good battery capacity and life cycles
- Reliable LiFePO4 batteries
- Simple and quick installation
- Compact, sleek, and lightweight design
Cons:
- Not recommended for high energy needs
Tesla Powerwall
Key Specifications:
- Battery Capacity: 13.5 kWh
- Depth of Discharge: 100%
- Power Continuous: 5 kW
- Weight: 251.3 lbs
- Dimensions: 45.3 x 29.6 x 5.75 inches
Here comes one of the leading solar home battery systems with lithium-ion batteries and 13.5 power capacity. The battery system features 90% round-trip efficiency and 100% depth of discharge. It has an IP67 enclosure, can be mounted to the wall or floor, and homeowners can stack up to 10 Powerwalls.
Pros:
- Good battery storage capacity
- 10-year warranty
- Highly scalable and affordable
- Good operating temperature of -4 degrees Fahrenheit to 122 degrees Fahrenheit
Cons:
- Communication and high installation cost issues
LG Chem Lithium Ion Home Battery
Key Specifications:
- Battery Capacity: 9.6 kWh
- Power Peak: 7 kW
- Power Continuous: 5 kW
- Weight: 246 lbs
- Dimensions: 32.1 x 19.8 x 11.6 inches
LG Chem’s solar battery with 9.6 kWh usable capacity is one of the best home energy systems with 90% round-trip efficiency. It comes with two modules and has an IP55 enclosure, making it ideal for outdoor and indoor installation. The operating temperature range of this battery is -50 degrees Fahrenheit to +122 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pros:
- Floor-standing and wall-mounted installation options
- Lightweight battery system
- Shows compatibility with numerous inverters
- 10-year warranty
Cons:
- The modularity is limited
Enphase IQ Battery 10
Key Specifications:
- Battery Capacity: 10.08 kWh
- Power Rating: 3.84 kVA
- Peak Output Power: 5.7 kVA
- Weight: 341 lbs
- Dimensions: 319 × 1070 × 664 mm
Enphase IQ Battery 10 is an AC battery system that contains LFP batteries that are known for their safety and longevity. Despite its compact size, the AC and DC round-trip efficiency of this home battery is 89% and 96%. It comes with 3 storage units and 12 microinverters and offers remote control via the Enphase app.
Pros:
- Simple plug-and-play installation
- Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry
- Good round-trip efficiency
- 10-year limited warranty
Cons:
- Less power output
SONNEN 12 kWh EcoLinx Smart Battery Storage System
Key Specifications:
- Battery Capacity: 12 kWh
- Cell Discharge: 2.0 kWh with 100% DoD
- Max Power: 100ms – 17 KVA
- Weight: 724 lbs
- Dimensions: 26 x 84 x 19 inches
The SONNEN solar battery has 12 kWh and offers 8 kWh of continuous power. It has lithium-iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries that guarantee at least 15,000 charge cycles and have a 15-year lifespan. The inverter efficiency of this AC-coupled battery is 95.0% peak and the operating temperature is 41 degrees Fahrenheit to 113 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pros:
- LiFePO4 battery technology
- MOSFET and Fuse protection
- UL listed components
- Good round-trip efficiency
Cons:
- Expensive
Conclusion
Solar battery backup systems for homes can power your homes instantly at night or in case of power cuts or emergencies. With these energy systems, homeowners can be energy-independent up to an extent, cut down their power bills, and reduce reliance on power grids.
When choosing the best solar battery backup systems for homes, make sure to consider the battery type, capacity, lifespan, energy efficiency, cost, and brand. Contact BLJ Solar to order high-quality and durable home energy systems at affordable prices.