If you have a solar system or an inverter battery backup in your home, you will agree with me that the performance of any power inverter depends on the quality of your solar battery.
Inverter batteries come in different types and each type has a specific advantage over the other.
This article will explore the types of inverter batteries and also pick out the best for your home solar system.
What is an inverter battery?
An inverter battery is a deep cycled, rechargeable battery designed to provide power backup during an electricity outage.
It works with an inverter to convert DC power into AC current for your home and office use.
How does it work with an inverter?
In a solar system or power backup, an inverter battery is connected to solar panels, or electrical system to charge the batteries.
When there is a power outage, the inverter takes over and begins to convert the DC current stored in the battery into AC electricity to power your home appliances.
The process continues until the power is restored. However, you should avoid overloading your inverter for your battery to last longer.
What type of battery is best for an inverter?
The best type of battery for inverter is a lithium-ion battery, followed by tubular and lead-acid batteries.
Lithium-ion has the longest lifespan of over ten years. It is also friendly to the environment.
What are the benefits of having a good inverter battery?
Inverter batteries help with power backup during blackouts, ensuring uninterrupted power supply to your appliances. It also offers other benefits, such as:
- Allowing you to continue using essential appliances during off-grid
- Protects sensitive electronic devices from power fluctuations
- Reduces dependence on electricity and also saves electrical bills
Types of Inverter Batteries
There are three major types of inverter batteries, and each type has its own advantages, lifespan and maintenance. They include:
- Lead-acid batteries
- Maintenance free
- Tubular batteries.
Each type has its own advantages and considerations when it comes to capacity, lifespan, and maintenance.
Lead-acid batteries
This is the most common and the oldest type of rechargeable battery for inverters. They come with two electrodes dipped into an electrolyte solution.
These batteries can last for about 3 to 4 years. However, it requires regular maintenance.
PROS:
- Cheapest among other batteries
- Rechargeable
- Produces large amounts of current
CONS:
- Regular maintenance
- Frequent water topping
- Release harmful gases when charging or discharging.
Maintenance-free batteries
These are sealed batteries that do not require any maintenance or water topping. They are safer than normal lead acid batteries, but are more expensive.
Examples include: Absorbent glass mat (AGM) and gel batteries.
Note: Lithium-ion batteries are maintenance free type, however, they are the newest and most expensive batteries in the market, and have the longest lifespan of ten years plus.
Pros
- Sealed and does not emit dangerous gas
- No need for water top up
- It is friendly to the environment
- Does not need any maintenance.
Cons
Has a shorter life except lithium-ion batteries.
more expensive.
Tubular batteries
These are the most improved versions of lead-acid batteries and are great options for home solar systems.
They come in a complex design, require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan of 8 years plus.
They are more expensive than the lead acid type, but among the best inverter batteries for home power systems.
Pros
- Longer lifespan (about eight years or more)
- Requires low maintenance
- More efficient
- Suitable for heavy-duty appliances
- Reliable
- Good value for money
Cons
It’s very expensive.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Inverter Battery
When choosing a battery for your inverter, there are a few factors you need to consider. These include the following:
Battery capacity (Ah): This determines how long the battery can power your appliances. Calculate the total wattage of your electrical load and estimate the desired backup time to choose the right capacity.
Battery type: You should also make up your mind on the type of battery to buy. Lithium-ion batteries have the longest lifespan, followed by tubular battery, and the lead acid type.
Battery Brand and Warranty: Go for reputable brands with good warranties to ensure quality and long lasting service.
Maintenance level: Consider your comfort level with maintenance. Tubular batteries require occasional water topping, while lithium-ion is maintenance-free.
Price: Balance your budget with performance and lifespan requirements.
Higher quality batteries often have higher initial costs but may be more cost-effective in the long run.
How to Properly Maintain an Inverter Battery
Proper maintenance of an inverter battery is essential for its longevity and performance. Here are the steps to take.
- Keep the battery in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Don’t keep the battery in direct sunlight, moisture, or extreme temperatures.
- Keep the battery surface and terminals clean and free of dust, dirt, and corrosion. Clean the terminals often to prevent corrosion.
- Monitor the water level every 2 to 3 months and top up with distilled water if necessary. Never use tap water, as it contains minerals that can harm the battery.
Final tips and recommendations for choosing and maintaining a solar inverter battery
Choose a battery with the right capacity for your power system. Clean and inspect the battery regularly to prevent damage.
Make use of a charge controller to control the charging and power draw on the system.
Need a professional? Contact mariaelectricals
If you need any advice on solar installation, cost estimates or battery selection guide, contact us to assist you for free.