Given the high utility costs and risks of power outages, it’s a good idea to install a home battery, which provides energy independence by powering your home even when the power goes out. You can also go completely off the grid by combiningΒ home batteries and solar panels. Home batteries can also help you save money on your electric bill by optimizing energy use.
The best way to do it is to charge your batteries at night, when you will most likely pay the lowest electricity rates in your area, and let it discharge during the day, when the highest electricity rates apply.
When there is a power outage, energy storage via batteries primarily serves as a source of backup power. It also saves you from paying peak-hour electricity rates, which can be quite high. This essentially allows you to store and use electricity in the battery during peak hours while charging it during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lowest.
Everyday Savings
Depending on where you live, you should be able to recoup the cost of your home battery in a matter of years. Electricity is priced differently in different areas during peak and off-peak hours. You will save money every day by charging your home battery during off-peak hours and using only stored energy during peak hours.
When you use the energy from your battery and solar panels together, you will increase the value of your solar panels and save more money.
Use of a Home Battery on its Own
It is a common misconception that in order to have home batteries, homeowners must have solar panels installed. This is not true. In the absence of solar panels, a home battery can charge itself via the power grid. A home battery can power your house for up to 24 hours even without the additional energy provided by solar panels. This is a rough estimate that may change depending on your energy consumption.
Battery Capacity in the Home During a Power Outage
In theory, if you have solar panels installed, your home battery can provide you with unlimited power because it can be charged even when you are not connected to the power grid. Solar panels can provide power to your home during the day while also charging the battery.
The battery’s stored energy will power your home at night. Solar panels increase battery value and capacity, which is also affected by battery size and energy usage. It is usually recommended that homeowners purchase a battery that can provide at least 12 hours of backup power.
Costs of Battery Installation
Home batteries must be installed by a licensed electrician. If you are a licensed electrician, you can install the battery yourself with the help of a battery company. However, if you are not a licensed electrician, you should not install the home battery yourself.
The cost of installation is determined by a number of factors, including the type and size of your home battery, the amount of electrical work required, labor charges, and the cost of all required components, such as the critical loads panel, disconnects, and wires.
