Battery Basics
What are Batteries
A battery is a device that stores energy and releases it as electricity when needed. It plays a crucial role in storing energy generated from solar panels, ensuring a continuous power supply even when the sun isn’t shining.
What are Batteries
A battery is a device that stores energy and releases it as electricity when needed. It plays a crucial role in storing energy generated from solar panels, ensuring a continuous power supply even when the sun isn’t shining.
main points about Batteries for Solar or home Storage
main points about Batteries for Solar or home Storage
It’s essential to understand the different types of batteries for several reasons:
1. Performance and Efficiency
Energy Needs: Different batteries have varying energy densities and discharge rates, making some more suitable for high-demand applications and others for low-demand.
Efficiency: Higher efficiency batteries ensure that more of the stored energy is used effectively, reducing wastage.
2. Cost Considerations
Initial Investment: Some batteries are more expensive upfront but may offer better long-term savings due to their longer lifespan and lower maintenance needs.
Maintenance Costs: Understanding the maintenance requirements can help in budgeting for ongoing costs.
3. Lifespan and Durability
Cycle Life: Some batteries can last significantly longer than others, impacting the overall lifespan and replacement frequency.
Durability: Certain battery types perform better in extreme temperatures or harsh conditions.
4. Safety
Installation: Knowing the safety requirements and potential risks associated with each battery type ensures proper installation and use.
Ventilation and Protection: Ensuring appropriate safety measures can prevent accidents and prolong battery life.
5. Environmental Impact
Recycling and Disposal: Some batteries have more environmentally friendly recycling processes, while others may pose disposal challenges.
Sustainability: Choosing sustainable battery options can reduce environmental impact and promote eco-friendly practices.
6. Application Suitability
Specific Needs: Certain batteries are better suited for specific applications, such as portable electronics, electric vehicles, or large-scale grid storage.
Scalability: Some battery systems are more scalable and can be easily expanded to meet growing energy needs.
7. Technological Advancements
Emerging Technologies: Staying informed about new and emerging battery technologies can help you take advantage of innovations that offer improved performance, safety, and sustainability.
8. Informed Decision-Making
Consumer Confidence: Understanding the pros and cons of each battery type enables consumers to make informed decisions that align with their energy needs, budget, and environmental goals.
Types of Batteries
Lead Acid
A lead-acid battery is a cost-effective, mature energy storage technology that uses lead plates and sulfuric acid to store and release electricity, commonly used in off-grid and car batteries.
Lithium-Iron-Phosphate (LiFePO4)
A Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery is a highly stable, long-lasting, and thermally safe lithium-ion battery chemistry ideal for home energy storage and solar applications.
Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (NMC)
A Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery is a high-energy-density lithium-ion battery known for its strong performance and compact size, commonly used in electric vehicles and home energy systems like the Tesla Powerwall.
Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) Batteries
A Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) battery is a durable and reliable rechargeable battery known for its long cycle life and resistance to deep discharge, though it's less commonly used today due to environmental concerns and lower energy density.
Flow Batteries
Flow batteries, particularly redox flow batteries, utilize a unique chemistry where redox-active materials, like vanadium or iron, are stored in separate tanks as liquid electrolytes and circulated through a cell stack to generate electricity via oxidation and reduction reactions.
Sodium-Sulfur (NaS) Batteries
Sodium-ion batteries are an emerging alternative to lithium-ion batteries that use abundant, low-cost sodium for energy storage, offering promising safety and sustainability benefits with slightly lower energy density.
Key Battery Terminology
Capacity (Ah or kWh): The amount of energy a battery can store. Measured in ampere-hours (Ah) or kilowatt-hours (kWh).
Voltage (V): The electrical potential provided by the battery. Commonly 12V, 24V, or 48V.
Depth of Discharge (DoD): The percentage of the battery’s capacity that can be used without damaging it.
Cycle Life: The number of charge and discharge cycles a battery can undergo before its capacity significantly degrades.
Efficiency: The ratio of energy output to energy input, indicating how well the battery converts and stores energy.
Key Battery Terminology
- Capacity (Ah or kWh): The amount of energy a battery can store. Measured in ampere-hours (Ah) or kilowatt-hours (kWh).
- Voltage (V): The electrical potential provided by the battery. Commonly 12V, 24V, or 48V.
- Depth of Discharge (DoD): The percentage of the battery’s capacity that can be used without damaging it.
- Cycle Life: The number of charge and discharge cycles a battery can undergo before its capacity significantly degrades.
- Efficiency: The ratio of energy output to energy input, indicating how well the battery converts and stores energy.
Battery Maintenance and Lifespan
How Much Maintenance Does a Battery Need?
Proper maintenance helps your battery last longer and perform better—but the amount of upkeep varies depending on the type of battery you choose.
Lead-Acid Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are an older technology still used in some off-grid or budget setups.
Maintenance Needs:
- Require regular inspection every 6 months
- Must be kept in a well-ventilated, dry environment
- Water levels need checking and topping up periodically (for flooded types)
- Terminals should be cleaned and checked for corrosion
Lifespan:
- Typically 3–7 years depending on usage and care
- Lower cycle life: ~1,000–2,000 charge/discharge cycles
Pros:
- Cheaper upfront
- Reliable for basic storage needs
Cons:
- Bulky, lower efficiency, shorter lifespan
- Higher maintenance burden
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) Batteries
LFP is the most popular lithium battery type for home energy storage in Australia today.
Maintenance Needs:
- Virtually maintenance-free
- No water refills, no venting needed
- Self-monitoring through built-in battery management systems (BMS)
Lifespan:
- 10–15 years on average
- High cycle life: 6,000+ cycles depending on depth of discharge
Pros:
- Long-lasting and highly efficient
- Compact design, safer chemistry, and lower total cost of ownership
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost (but falling)
🛠️ Our Tip:
If you want low maintenance and long-term performance, LFP batteries are usually the better investment for most Australian homes and small businesses.
Battery Maintenance and Lifespan
How Much Maintenance Does a Battery Need?
Proper maintenance helps your battery last longer and perform better—but the amount of upkeep varies depending on the type of battery you choose.
Lead-Acid Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are an older technology still used in some off-grid or budget setups.
Maintenance Needs:
Require regular inspection every 6 months
Must be kept in a well-ventilated, dry environment
Water levels need checking and topping up periodically (for flooded types)
Terminals should be cleaned and checked for corrosion
Lifespan:
Typically 3–7 years depending on usage and care
Lower cycle life: ~1,000–2,000 charge/discharge cycles
Pros:
Cheaper upfront
Reliable for basic storage needs
Cons:
Bulky, lower efficiency, shorter lifespan
Higher maintenance burden
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) Batteries
LFP is the most popular lithium battery type for home energy storage in Australia today.
Maintenance Needs:
Virtually maintenance-free
No water refills, no venting needed
Self-monitoring through built-in battery management systems (BMS)
Lifespan:
10–15 years on average
High cycle life: 6,000+ cycles depending on depth of discharge
Pros:
Long-lasting and highly efficient
Compact design, safer chemistry, and lower total cost of ownership
Cons:
Higher upfront cost (but falling)
Our Tip:
Our Tip:If you want low maintenance and long-term performance, LFP batteries are usually the better investment for most Australian homes and small businesses.
Battery Saftey
What You Need to Know
When installed and used correctly, home batteries are very safe—especially modern lithium options like Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP). Still, understanding how to store, handle, and maintain them safely is an important part of being an informed buyer.
🔌 1. A Safe Installation Is Everything
Always use a licensed and CEC-accredited installer.
Batteries must be installed according to Australian Standards (AS/NZS 5139).
Installers will ensure proper spacing, ventilation, and wall-mounting (where applicable).
🏠 Your battery should never be installed in a bedroom, living space, or unventilated cupboard. If installed on a wall behind a living area it will need a fireproof backing board.
Batteries must be installed according to Australian Standards (AS/NZS 5139).
Installers will ensure proper spacing, ventilation, and wall-mounting (where applicable).
🏠 Your battery should never be installed in a bedroom, living space, or unventilated cupboard. If installed on a wall behind a living area it will need a fireproof backing board.
🔋 2. Battery Chemistry & Risk Levels
| Battery Type | Fire Risk | Ventilation Required | Safety Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead-Acid | Low | Yes | Hydrogen gas venting needed during charging |
| Lithium-ion (NMC) | Medium | No | Stable, but more heat-sensitive than LFP |
| LFP (LiFePO₄) | Very Low | No | Highly stable and thermally safe |
LFP batteries are widely considered the safest battery chemistry available for homes today.
⚠️ 3. Handling & Storage Tips
Never open, tamper with, or move a battery once installed.
Keep the battery away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or water.
Make sure kids or pets can’t access the unit.
Follow all manufacturer guidelines, especially regarding temperature limits.
Keep the battery away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or water.
Make sure kids or pets can’t access the unit.
Follow all manufacturer guidelines, especially regarding temperature limits.
🔄 4. Built-in Safety Features
Modern batteries (especially lithium types) include:
Battery Management Systems (BMS) to prevent overcharging or overheating
Thermal management systems
Short-circuit protection
Remote monitoring and alerts
Battery Management Systems (BMS) to prevent overcharging or overheating
Thermal management systems
Short-circuit protection
Remote monitoring and alerts
📣 Final Tip:
If you’re comparing quotes, always ask about the battery’s certifications, safety features, and warranty coverage. Peace of mind is worth the investment.
Battery Saftey
What You Need to Know
When installed and used correctly, home batteries are very safe—especially modern lithium options like Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP). Still, understanding how to store, handle, and maintain them safely is an important part of being an informed buyer.
1. A Safe Installation Is Everything
1. A Safe Installation Is EverythingAlways use a licensed and CEC-accredited installer.
Batteries must be installed according to Australian Standards (AS/NZS 5139).
Installers will ensure proper spacing, ventilation, and wall-mounting (where applicable).
Your battery should never be installed in a bedroom, living space, or unventilated cupboard. If installed on a wall behind a living area it will need a fireproof backing board. 2. Battery Chemistry & Risk Levels
2. Battery Chemistry & Risk Levels| Battery Type | Fire Risk | Ventilation Required | Safety Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lead-Acid | Low | Yes | Hydrogen gas venting needed during charging |
| Lithium-ion (NMC) | Medium | No | Stable, but more heat-sensitive than LFP |
| LFP (LiFePO₄) | Very Low | No | Highly stable and thermally safe |
3. Handling & Storage Tips
3. Handling & Storage TipsNever open, tamper with, or move a battery once installed.
Keep the battery away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or water.
Make sure kids or pets can’t access the unit.
Follow all manufacturer guidelines, especially regarding temperature limits.
4. Built-in Safety Features
4. Built-in Safety FeaturesModern batteries (especially lithium types) include:
Battery Management Systems (BMS) to prevent overcharging or overheating
Thermal management systems
Short-circuit protection
Remote monitoring and alerts
Final Tip:
Final Tip:If you’re comparing quotes, always ask about the battery’s certifications, safety features, and warranty coverage. Peace of mind is worth the investment.
🔄 Understanding Inverters: The Heart of Your Solar Battery System
Inverters are a crucial part of any solar and battery system. They act as the “translator,” converting the solar energy your panels produce into electricity your home can use.
⚡ What Does an Inverter Do?
Solar panels and batteries produce DC (Direct Current) electricity. But Australian homes use AC (Alternating Current) power to run appliances.
An inverter’s job is to convert DC into AC, so that solar energy or stored battery power can be safely used in your home.
🔌 Types of Inverters in Solar + Battery Systems
| Inverter Type | Description | When It’s Used |
|---|---|---|
| PV (Solar) Inverter | Converts solar panel energy (DC) into usable AC power | When you only have solar panels, no battery |
| Battery Inverter | Converts stored DC energy from the battery into AC power | When your battery is installed separately from the solar system |
| Hybrid Inverter | Combines both PV and battery functions into one unit | When installing a new solar + battery system together |
🧠 Key Differences:
| Feature | PV Inverter | Battery Inverter | Hybrid Inverter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manages solar power | |  | |
| Manages battery storage | | | |
| Best for battery retrofit | | | (unless replacing inverter) |
| Simplifies new installs | | | |
💡 Which One Do I Need?
Already have solar? → You may only need a battery inverter when adding storage
Starting fresh with solar + battery? → A hybrid inverter is often the smartest, most cost-effective option
Upgrading an old system? → It depends on compatibility—we help you choose the right setup
✅ Final Thought:
The right inverter ensures your system works efficiently and safely. A quality inverter can also extend the life of your battery and improve your energy savings.
Inverters
Understanding Inverters: The Heart of Your Solar Battery System
Inverters are a crucial part of any solar and battery system. They act as the “translator,” converting the solar energy your panels produce into electricity your home can use.
What Does an Inverter Do?
What Does an Inverter Do?Solar panels and batteries produce DC (Direct Current) electricity. But Australian homes use AC (Alternating Current) power to run appliances.
An inverter’s job is to convert DC into AC, so that solar energy or stored battery power can be safely used in your home.
Types of Inverters in Solar + Battery Systems
| Inverter Type | Description | When It’s Used |
|---|---|---|
| PV (Solar) Inverter | Converts solar panel energy (DC) into usable AC power | When you only have solar panels, no battery |
| Battery Inverter | Converts stored DC energy from the battery into AC power | When your battery is installed separately from the solar system |
| Hybrid Inverter | Combines both PV and battery functions into one unit | When installing a new solar + battery system together |
Key Differences:
Key Differences:| Feature | PV Inverter | Battery Inverter | Hybrid Inverter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manages solar power | | | |
| Manages battery storage | | | |
| Best for battery retrofit | | | (unless replacing inverter) |
| Simplifies new installs | | | |
Which One Do I Need?
Which One Do I Need?Already have solar? → You may only need a battery inverter when adding storage
Starting fresh with solar + battery? → A hybrid inverter is often the smartest, most cost-effective option
Upgrading an old system? → It depends on compatibility—we help you choose the right setup
Ready to submit for 3 quotes?
Final Thought:
The right inverter ensures your system works efficiently and safely. A quality inverter can also extend the life of your battery and improve your energy savings.
Solar PV
☀️ What Is (PV) Photovoltaic Solar Energy?
Solar energy or PV is power generated from the sun’s rays. It’s clean, renewable, and one of the most sustainable ways to power your home or business.
Using solar panels, we can capture sunlight and convert it into electricity—helping households reduce their reliance on the grid, lower electricity bills, and shrink their carbon footprint.
🔄 How Solar Works (In Simple Terms)
Solar panels absorb sunlight and generate DC electricity
An inverter converts that DC power into AC electricity for your home
Any unused electricity can:
An inverter converts that DC power into AC electricity for your home
Any unused electricity can:
- Be stored in a battery for later use, or
- Be fed back into the grid (often earning you credits)
🌱 Why Go Solar?
- Cut your electricity bills
- Generate clean, renewable power
- Increase your energy independence
- Add value to your property
- Help combat climate change
Solar PV
What Is (PV) Photovoltaic Solar Energy?
What Is (PV) Photovoltaic Solar Energy?Solar energy or PV is power generated from the sun’s rays. It’s clean, renewable, and one of the most sustainable ways to power your home or business.
Using solar panels, we can capture sunlight and convert it into electricity—helping households reduce their reliance on the grid, lower electricity bills, and shrink their carbon footprint.
How Solar Works (In Simple Terms)
Solar panels absorb sunlight and generate DC electricity
An inverter converts that DC power into AC electricity for your home
Any unused electricity can:
Be stored in a battery for later use, or
Be fed back into the grid (often earning you credits)
Why Go Solar?
Why Go Solar?- Cut your electricity bills
- Generate clean, renewable power
- Increase your energy independence
- Add value to your property
- Help combat climate change
What About When the Sun Isn’t Shining?
That’s where battery storage comes in. Batteries store the excess energy your panels produce during the day, so you can use it at night or during blackouts—making your solar system even smarter.
⚡ What About When the Sun Isn’t Shining?
That’s where battery storage comes in. Batteries store the excess energy your panels produce during the day, so you can use it at night or during blackouts—making your solar system even smarter.
Benefits of Connecting to Batteries
🔋 Benefits of Connecting a Battery to Your Solar System
Adding a battery to your solar system unlocks more value, more control, and greater independence. Here’s why more Australians are pairing solar with storage:
🌙 1. Use Solar Power at Night
Without a battery, any unused solar power is sent back to the grid. With a battery, you store that energy and use it later—like at night when your panels aren’t generating power.
💸 2. Reduce Electricity Bills Even Further
Electricity prices are highest during peak evening hours. A battery lets you avoid drawing from the grid at those times, helping you cut your power bill by up to 70% or more.
⚡ 3. Backup Power During Blackouts
Keep the lights on when the grid goes down. Many battery systems can provide emergency backup power for essentials like fridges, lights, Wi-Fi, or medical equipment.
🧠 4. Smart Energy Management
Modern batteries come with apps and monitoring tools so you can see exactly how much energy you’re generating, using, and saving. It puts you in control of your energy.
🌱 5. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Batteries maximise your use of clean, solar energy—so you rely less on coal-powered grid electricity. It’s a smarter, greener way to power your home.
🏡 6. Increase Property Value
Solar + storage systems are in demand. A battery-backed solar setup can make your home more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.
🔁 7. Future-Proof Your Energy Use
With energy costs rising and grid instability becoming more common, batteries offer long-term energy security and stability—especially in rural or remote areas.
Benefits of Connecting to Batteries
Benefits of Connecting a Battery to Your Solar System
Adding a battery to your solar system unlocks more value, more control, and greater independence. Here’s why more Australians are pairing solar with storage:
1. Use Solar Power at Night
1. Use Solar Power at NightWithout a battery, any unused solar power is sent back to the grid. With a battery, you store that energy and use it later—like at night when your panels aren’t generating power.
2. Reduce Electricity Bills Even Further
2. Reduce Electricity Bills Even FurtherElectricity prices are highest during peak evening hours. A battery lets you avoid drawing from the grid at those times, helping you cut your power bill by up to 70% or more.
3. Backup Power During Blackouts
Keep the lights on when the grid goes down. Many battery systems can provide emergency backup power for essentials like fridges, lights, Wi-Fi, or medical equipment.
4. Smart Energy Management
Modern batteries come with apps and monitoring tools so you can see exactly how much energy you’re generating, using, and saving. It puts you in control of your energy.
5. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Batteries maximise your use of clean, solar energy—so you rely less on coal-powered grid electricity. It’s a smarter, greener way to power your home.
6. Increase Property Value
6. Increase Property ValueSolar + storage systems are in demand. A battery-backed solar setup can make your home more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.
7. Future-Proof Your Energy Use
7. Future-Proof Your Energy UseWith energy costs rising and grid instability becoming more common, batteries offer long-term energy security and stability—especially in rural or remote areas.
Ready to see if a battery is right for you?
frequently asked questions
here's our common questions
A home battery stores excess energy produced by your solar panels during the day so you can use it at night or during a blackout. This helps reduce your electricity bills and increases your energy independence from the grid.
Yes—but it's generally less cost-effective. Batteries can be charged using grid electricity, but most people pair them with solar to maximise savings and sustainability.
It depends on your household’s energy usage. Most homes use batteries ranging from 5kWh to 13kWh, but we can help you choose the right size based on your power consumption, goals, and budget.
Modern lithium-ion batteries last between 10 to 15 years, depending on usage and brand. Most come with warranties covering at least 10 years or a set number of charge cycles.
Yes. Depending on your location, you may be eligible for state-based rebates or subsidies such as the SA Home Battery Scheme, NSW Empowering Homes, or Solar Victoria incentives. We help you navigate these programs to get the best deal.
