How to Add A Battery To An Existing Solar Panel System

Solar energy is a proven way to reduce energy bills and enhance efficiency, but its main downside is a lack of consistency. While batteries weren’t initially a popular add-on for solar panels, more households are investing in them. 

Batteries enable you to collect excess energy and store it for future use, transforming solar panels into a year-round solution. 

In this blog post, we’ll reveal why you need a battery for your solar panels and how to install it successfully. 

The benefits of solar panel batteries

When you decide to install solar panels, you’re making an active contribution to the environment, but their main problem is failing to provide electricity during the night or on cloudy days.

Solar panel batteries are a long-lasting solution that offers a range of benefits. Before we reveal how to install a solar panel battery, let’s explore the advantages.  

Energy independence

Solar panels are renowned for their impressive savings, but systems without batteries still rely on the grid during the night. Batteries enable you to store excess energy and use it when needed, reducing your reliance on the grid.

Energy savings

With a battery, you can store energy during peak generation times and use it during peak consumption times. Many people strategise their usage based on grid rates, which saves money in the long term.

Excellent backups

Solar panel batteries will also offer your home backup during a power cut, ensuring you can keep essential appliances running. If you choose to export your excess energy through the SEG, you can also boost your finances. 

How to add a battery to your existing system 

So, now that you know more about the benefits of solar panel batteries, it’s time to reveal how to install them. Most people opt for a professional installation service, but let’s look at the process. 

Assess your current system

Before choosing a battery, it’s vital to assess your current system and check whether it’s compatible with storage. Most modern solar panel systems will work with batteries, but it depends on the type you have. 

Consider the following factors:  

Inverter Type

Inverters are vital for converting DC electricity into the AC electricity that powers homes and businesses. The type of inverter you have can be problematic, as you might need to convert string and microinverter systems into a hybrid system to accommodate a battery.

Energy needs

Consider how much energy you use during the night or during low-sunlight periods to determine the correct battery size.  

Choose an appropriate battery

If you’re new to solar storage batteries, finding an appropriate one can be challenging. There are two types of batteries, lithium-ion being the most popular solution.

While they’re more expensive initially, lithium-ion batteries are more sustainable, last longer and offer more energy efficiency than lead-acid batteries.

Other factors to consider when choosing a battery include:

• Battery Capacity (kWh): How much energy can your chosen battery store? Larger capacities are best if you want to store more energy for longer periods.
• Power Output (kW): You’ll also want to find a battery that delivers enough power for your needs. For example, high power outputs are vital for homes with multiple appliances. 

Upgrade the inverter if necessary

If your inverter isn’t compatible with a batter system, you’ll need to upgrade or convert it. Hybrid inverters are beneficial, as they work with solar panels and batteries. Most modern systems already have a hybrid inverter.

Alternatively, you can install a battery inverter that works with your system, which is usually cheaper but less efficient. 

Install the battery

Once you choose a battery and resolve any inverter issues, it’s time for the tricky stuff:  installing the battery. It’s always best to work with a professional installation service, as it ensures you don’t damage the inverter.

Here’s how a certified professional will install your solar panel battery:

• Choosing A Location: Most professionals will install a solar panel battery indoors or outdoors if there’s a sheltered location.
• Connecting The Battery: They’ll then connect the battery to your solar panel system and inverter. The complexity of this step depends on your system, but it might require rewiring or installing other equipment.
• Configure the System: After installation, it’s time to configure the battery and inverter. Once installed, the service will set the backup power options and charge cycles. 

Caring for the system 

Once your solar panel battery system is in place, it’s vital to maintain it correctly and ensure the battery operates at full capacity. 

The majority of modern systems have monitoring software that lets users track storage, consumption, and energy production, ensuring swift identification of any issues. 

If you’re unsure how to maintain your battery system, it’s best to ask a professional to assess it. 

You might encounter the following issues with your solar panel battery: 

• Deep Discharges: When the battery constantly drains to low levels, its lifespan will decrease, which means you’re not getting the most out of your investment. 
• Overcharging: In contrast, overcharging your battery might also shorten its lifespan and compromise energy efficiency. 
• Sensitivity: Even the most advanced solar panel batteries are vulnerable to extreme temperatures, and not being stored in sheltered conditions can lead to early replacements. 
• Sizing Issues: When solar battery systems aren’t the right size for your property or energy needs, it can cause issues such as frequent deep discharges, insufficient storage, and overuse, which shortens the lifespan.
• BMS Failure: A battery management system failure can lead to incorrect charging, overheating and a reduced lifespan. In extreme cases, you might need to replace the battery. 
• Maintenance Issues: Opting for a lead-acid battery might be the more affordable option, but these batteries are prone to damage. They require regular maintenance, and minor issues can result in total failure.

The bottom line 

Solar panels are essential for reducing carbon emissions, and adding a solar battery allows you to store energy for consistent, reliable power.

If you’re looking to maximise your home’s efficiency, combining solar panels and a battery system can bring you closer to energy independence.

Hometree can help you explore the right solar panel and battery solutions for your needs. Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation quote..