Today’s solar batteries are better than ever. So are the devices that regulate and protect them. But you still need to do your homework to make sure you get the best solar battery storage solution for your needs.
There are two main kinds of deep cycle batteries: lead acid and lithium. Lead acid batteries have a lower upfront cost, while lithium batteries have the longest lifespan. Flooded lead acid batteries require maintenance, and more expensive sealed lead acid batteries are maintenance free.
Batteries are the primary storage source for off-grid systems, but they also work as an emergency backup power source for grid-tied systems. Installing a grid-tied system with a solar battery backup also gives you the option to sell excess stored power back to the utility company at a later time.
We use deep cycle batteries to store power generated by solar panels, but they have plenty of other applications. Small electric vehicles and industrial equipment like forklifts, floor cleaners, scissor lifts, and golf carts are also powered by deep cycle batteries.
For more in-depth info on batteries, be sure to read our battery basics and battery maintenance pages
Lead acid batteries represent a tried and true technology that has been around for years. Flooded lead acid batteries have the lowest upfront cost, but the tradeoff comes in the form of maintenance — every month you’ll need to check the water level, adding distilled water to keep them topped off. These batteries expel built-up hydrogen gas, so they need to be installed in a vented enclosure. They also need periodic equalize charges.
Sealed lead acid batteries are a variation of lead acid that eliminates the maintenance. But these come at a higher price and usually a slightly shorter lifespan. There are a few types of sealed lead acid batteries – gel and absorbent glass mat (AGM.) There are some differences in battery construction, but generally speaking, both types are used in off-grid solar and have similar benefits.
Lithium batteries are the most efficient. They waste significantly less power in the charge/discharge process. They can also be cycled deeper, using more of their capacity. Lithium batteries come in different types. The off-grid batteries we use are called Lithium Ferro Phosphate (LiFePO4, commonly called “LFP”). The long lifespan and high charge/discharge rates make LFP batteries the ideal solution for off-grid systems
Deep cycle batteries store extra solar power, essentially turning your home into your own power company. If you’re looking at batteries, chances are you also need a complete off-grid system, including solar panels, racking, a power center and more.
You’ll need several batteries to support a full-scale system. So we’ve taken the time to put together 12, 24 and 48 – volt battery banks specifically designed to work with our off-grid systems.
Still not sure what kind of system you’re looking for? Get our FREE Getting Started Guide. It covers all the basics of solar power. If you already know off-grid is your thing, check out the links below to size up the right batteries for your system.
