Are Home Backup Batteries Smart Investments?

Most Americans experience power outages due to “brownouts” or weather conditions. Those in areas that are especially prone to outages frequently buy generators that temporarily power all or part of their homes. There are also buyers who choose home backup batteries instead of generators. Batteries are quiet, eco-friendly, and work especially well with solar power systems. They can be used as part of a complete backup system that includes a generator. Buyers often consider batteries an investment that is convenient to use and saves money over time.

Batteries Can Provide Temporary Power

Millions of homeowners are interested in batteries as backup power systems but have questions about whether or not a battery system can power an entire home. Industry experts suggest that homeowners evaluate their energy needs to determine whether a battery system will suit their needs. Batteries work very well for those who need occasional backup to run appliances in emergencies. However, those in areas with frequent power outages might find that batteries alone do not meet their needs.

Suppliers will help clients access their power needs and determine whether batteries are the ideal choice. Some homeowners find that a battery system is sufficient if they use it for necessities and put off non-essentials like washing clothes or using a dishwasher.

Generators vs. Battery Backup Power

Both batteries and generators have pros and cons. Generators provide power longer than batteries. Prices also differ, but the ultimate cost to install backup power depends on each home’s energy use. The average cost for standby generator systems that can power typical U.S. homes is $3,000 to $5,000. In comparison, the beginning price for a whole-home battery system is about $6,000, not including installation. Bigger homes cost more. However, the installation price is not the only factor that impacts the value of backup systems.

Generators need a constant supply of fuel to operate and require maintenance over their lifetimes. Some clients also pay to have fuel delivered. In contrast, batteries paired with solar energy systems are cheap to operate because they get energy from the sun.

Using Batteries Can Lower Energy Costs

There are areas where electric bills are based on what time and day of the week homeowners use energy. Batteries could save them money. They can charge batteries during the periods when rates are low and then use battery power during high-rate times.

Most homeowners charge backup batteries via their electrical grids. Those with solar equipment already use batteries to store energy for times when sunlight is scarce. Many customers buy home batteries that can charge from the sun and the grid, making them very cost-efficient to operate.

Batteries Generate Power Quietly and Safely

Generators can be noisy to operate, which irritates many homeowners or makes it hard to sleep. Batteries are eco-friendly, very quiet, and do not emit noxious fumes. That also makes them safer than some generators since exhaust fumes are toxic if owners do not provide adequate ventilation. Some people also avoid generators because they run on fossil fuels that pollute the air.

Although home generators have long been the most popular power backup systems, some homeowners now choose batteries instead. Battery systems are clean, quiet, and can help owners lower energy costs. It generally costs more to install battery backup systems, and they do not provide power as long as generators. However, batteries are inexpensive to own compared to generators.