Understanding Solar Batteries: A Guide for Australian Homeowners
As one of the sunniest countries worldwide, Australia is an ideal location for solar power. In fact, many households are now turning to solar energy to save on electricity bills and reduce their carbon footprint. However, to fully take advantage of solar power, homeowners need to consider investing in solar batteries.
This article will talk about solar batteries, how they work, and what you can attain from using them. You will also learn how to choose the right one for your home and what you can do to keep them running for years to come.
What Are Solar Batteries?
Solar batteries store the energy generated by solar panels during the day so that they can be used at night or during a power outage. They come in different sizes and capacities, depending on how much energy you want to store. The most common type of solar battery used in Australia is the lithium-ion battery, which is the same type of battery used in smartphones and electric cars.
How Do Solar Batteries Work?
During the day, solar panels turn sunlight into electricity, which is then used to power your home or sent back to the grid if you generate more than you need. Any excess energy is stored in the solar battery for later use. At night, when solar panels are not generating any electricity, the battery provides power to your home.
Benefits of Solar Batteries
- Energy independence: With a solar battery, you can reduce your reliance on the grid and become more self-sufficient. This is particularly useful during power outages or peak electricity usage times when the grid is under strain.
- Cost Savings: By storing excess energy during the day and using it at night, you can be less reliant on the grid and save on electricity bills.
- Environmental Advantages: Solar batteries help to reduce carbon emissions by storing excess solar energy that would otherwise be sent back to the grid.
Choosing a Solar Battery: What to Consider
- Capacity: The capacity of the solar battery determines how much energy it can store. This should be based on your energy needs and how much excess energy you generate during the day.
- Brand and Quality: Invest in a reputable brand and high-quality solar battery to ensure it lasts many years.
- Cost: The cost of a solar battery varies depending on its capacity and brand. While opting for a cheaper option may be tempting, investing in a high-quality battery will save you money in the long run.
- Installation: Ensure a qualified installer installs the solar battery to ensure it is done correctly and safely.
Maintenance of Solar Batteries
Like any other battery, solar batteries require maintenance to ensure they operate optimally. The following are some maintenance tips:
- Regular Inspections: Have your solar battery inspected regularly to ensure it is functioning correctly.
- Cleaning: Keep the battery clean and free from dust and debris.
- Temperature Control: Avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures, which can affect its performance.
- Charging and Discharging: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and discharging the battery to ensure it lasts for a long time.
Final Thoughts
Investing in a solar battery is wise for any Australian homeowner who has installed solar panels. Solar batteries provide energy independence, cost savings, and environmental benefits. When choosing a solar battery, it is essential to consider factors such as capacity, brand, cost, and installation. With proper maintenance, a solar battery can last many years, providing reliable energy storage for your home.
Seven20 Electrical specialises in the installation of solar battery systems for homes and businesses in Australia. We are dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable solar battery solutions that meet your energy needs and budget. Call 03 9729 2281 to learn how we can help you achieve energy independence and savings with a solar battery system.