How much do you really know about solar batteries? Which one can better fulfil your domestic or commercial needs? What about their capacity or lifespan? We’ve put together the most common questions (and answers!) so that you’re well informed before choosing a certain solar battery for your application.

As you probably know, a solar battery store the energy generated during the day and makes it readily available for use during the night. In a nutshell, this technology enables your home or business to run on 100% renewable solar energy around the clock, as long as electricity demand does not exceed the supply that the battery can provide.

If you’re still looking for some answers when it comes to solar batteries, then these FAQs may be of great help before you go out shopping for a particular product.

Are you looking for strong and affordable solar batteries?Ask our solar experts at Black Frog and find out which one is more suitable for your application.

1. What are the main types of solar batteries?

First and foremost, when you say ‘solar battery’, you actually refer to ‘deep cycle solar batteries’, considered one of the best energy storage units when it comes to solar power. The most popular types are flooded lead-acid batteries (FLA), sealed batteries (absorbent glass mat – AGM – or Gel cell) and lithium batteries.

2. What is the size of solar batteries?

Frankly, when it comes to sizes, a significant number of solar battery solutions are available. They usually come in a wide range of sizes (i.e. between the size of a split system AC and a fridge) based on the technology used and the amount of energy stored. Keep in mind that lead-acid batteries tend to be physically larger than lithium batteries.

3. What do you need to know about installation?

In general, battery capacity is expressed in kilowatt-hours (kWh), similar to the way your electricity is charged on your bill. It is usually quoted by the manufacturer as an ‘ideal’ number (or total capacity) that is useful for comparing batteries. However, all solar batteries have the so-called ‘depth of discharge’ (DoD), meaning how much of the total capacity can actually be used.

That is why you should compare batteries based on their usable energy and not on the total capacity. This way, you will have correct expectations when buying a certain product.

4. Where should you install a solar battery?

The answer is: it depends. Solar batteries may be installed in different places but it always depends on their purpose and manufacturer’s recommendations. For instance, some of them are wall-mounted and others are floor-standing. Some can be installed inside – then it’s mandatory to ensure proper ventilation – while others exclusively outside, meaning they need to come with a weatherproof enclosure. In most cases, lithium batteries are typically smaller and can be installed in a utility room. Unlike them, lead-acid batteries are larger and should be installed outside, in a garage or a basement as they vent hydrogen when charged.

At Black Frog Solar, we always recommend asking expert advice before choosing a solar battery for your domestic or commercial application.

Plus, if you need any solar lighting solutions, we are your one-stop-shop. Just visit our showroom or call BlackFrog Solar at 07 3881 1990 and schedule a free consultation today.

Until next time, stay tuned to find out more FAQs on solar batteries!

Your friend and solar lighting experts,

The BlackFrog Solar Team