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Extending your inverter’s battery life with solar
Go cleaner and greener by using solar to improve your inverter battery life.
Many South Africans have turned to inverters as alternative power sources when grid electricity is unavailable due to load-shedding or a fault in the local transmission network. If you own an inverter powered by a lithium-ion (Li+) battery, you’ll know that they’re a useful solution to power outages – but the batteries become less efficient quickly, and they are expensive to replace. As the battery gets older, it will not recharge to its original capacity, and it dies even faster when used.
There are 3 things you should know about a Li+ battery:
- It has a battery life of about 5 years, which you can extend with proper maintenance.
- You’ll need to partially discharge and then recharge the battery regularly – this prolongs battery life.
- Keep the battery cool – high temperatures reduce battery lifespan significantly.
It can be difficult to maintain your inverter’s battery in peak condition if you recharge it using only grid electricity when it’s available. If you add solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to your battery-and-inverter system, you can not only prolong your battery life, but also enjoy several other advantages.
Solar power for your home
- Solar PV panels make electricity from sunlight. South Africa is blessed with an abundance of sunshine, so a solar energy system is a sustainable choice. You can generate your own power and reduce – or even eliminate – hefty electricity bills.
- You can recharge your inverter battery directly from your solar system on clear days, even during load-shedding. You’ll most likely add more batteries to your system when you install solar panels, so that you can store more power and even recharge your inverter at night. All these options will help save you money in the long run.
The savings … that a solar power system brings will give you a positive return on your investment
- Once installed, solar panels require minimal maintenance. They typically last 25 to 30 years, providing long-term savings. Unless the system is damaged by weather, cleaning the panels regularly is the most important maintenance issue. Most reputable installers will offer ongoing maintenance contracts after installation.
- Apart from the savings benefits, your home will also have a higher resale value. It will be more attractive to potential buyers who appreciate being immune to power failures, as well as those committed to environmental sustainability.
- Choosing solar reduces your carbon footprint and contributes to the fight against climate change.
Get more from your inverter and Li+ batteries with solar energy
How can you best use solar power to give you longer battery life?
1. Choose an inverter and battery that suit your requirements
Consider factors like capacity, voltage, and compatibility with solar panels. Different batteries offer different storage capacities, so choose one that will fit your current and projected future needs.
2. Understand what the different settings on your inverter do
An inverter can balance and store power from different sources – for example, grid power and solar power. The inverter’s usual default settings will be to draw power from the grid, then solar panels, then battery power until the battery voltage drops. But you can set your inverter to use solar as the default source of power, then grid power if required.
3. Preserve battery life during load-shedding
If you use solar panels to charge the battery during load-shedding or unscheduled outages, while powering your inverter from the battery, it can extend your battery life.
4. Conduct regular monitoring and maintenance
Use apps to monitor performance and implement the battery management strategies we’ve suggested. Also, regularly update your inverter’s embedded software, also known as ‘firmware’.
Transform your life with solar energy and an inverter
The benefits of a home solar system and inverter backup have encouraged many South Africans to become less dependent on the national grid. And despite the initial costs, the savings on electricity and other expenses that a solar power system brings will give you a positive return on your investment surprisingly quickly.
Consult a professional installation company for the best solution for your needs and your situation. They can assess your home, recommend the right system, and ensure optimum performance.
Avo Solar is a 1-stop solar shop on our Avo platform with a range of packages to suit different needs and budgets. Packages include solar panels, an inverter, 1 or more batteries, easy installation, and a 10-year warranty. You can pay the system off, take full ownership, and break even within 6 years. If you opt for an inverter-and-battery-only solution, consider the Green package, which includes a 5.5 kW inverter, a 5 kW battery, installation, and a 10-year warranty.
