Thinking about going solar? A solar system with a battery back-up can be an financially sound option if you intend to spend long enough in your current residence to recoup the cost of the battery purchase. But getting the most out of your solar energy storage requires skilful installation of the system.
If you’re up for a DIY task and have some electrical experience, you might be considering connecting solar panels to a battery yourself. But is it safe to do so or should you call in a professional solar installer or qualified electrician? Let’s explore how to connect solar panels to a solar battery.
On this page, you’ll find:
- Adding solar battery storage to your solar system
- Can you connect solar panels to a solar battery yourself?
- Are solar batteries easy to install and connect to a PV system?
- What to ask before installing a solar battery to an existing solar panel system
- The final word on connecting solar panels to a battery
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Adding battery storage to your solar system
So, you’re ready to jump on the solar battery bandwagon and start storing some clean, green energy for your household. Before you start tinkering with any wires or equipment, let’s assess the situation. The most crucial factor to consider when installing a solar battery is your energy usage when the panels aren’t generating electricity (i.e. at night).
A solar battery will allow you to store the electricity your panels collect during the day. From there, it’s a matter of wiring everything up and making sure the voltage of your solar panels matches that of your battery and the other components that make up your system. While it may sound easy to do, it’s a task best left to the experts – just like the installation of your solar panels.
Can you connect solar panels to a battery yourself?
The short answer is no. Connecting solar panels to a battery is not a simple plug-and-play process. It requires advanced electrical knowledge, such as how to handle voltage fluctuations, overcurrent and grounding. Moreover, there will be the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines for each component to follow. Failing to follow these guidelines could not only negate any warranty attached to those items but, more importantly, risk your safety.
That’s why it’s advisable to call a licensed solar installer. They can ensure everything is safe before they connect your solar panels to your battery. They’ll also use the right wires and connectors to make sure your battery stays juiced up and ready to go. In a few words, don’t risk it. Call a pro and let them take care of the electrical work for you.
Are solar batteries easy to install and connect to a PV system?
The installation process will vary depending on the type of battery you choose and the complexity of your solar panel system. It’s recommended that homeowners hire a professional solar installer to ensure a safe and efficient installation.
A professional installer can assess your home’s electrical system, select an appropriate battery size and optimise the system for maximum efficiency. They will then connect the battery to your existing solar PV system and ensure your panels and inverter are configured to work with it.
What to ask before installing a solar battery to an existing solar panel system
Before making a purchase decision, it’s important to ask your installer the following four questions:
- Will the battery be compatible with my existing solar panels?
- What is the storage capacity of the battery and what is its output capacity?
- What is the battery’s lifespan and will it require maintenance over time?
- How long will the installation process take and how much will it cost?
It’s also important to understand the warranty provided with your battery. Warranties can range from five to 15 years, so make sure you know the terms and conditions before installation.
The final word on connecting solar panels to a battery
Connecting solar panels to a battery requires technical skills and caution. Given both your panels and a solar battery cost thousands of dollars, you’ll want to make sure everything is done properly to avoid any costly errors.
There’s also the safety angle we’ve discussed. Playing with electricity is never a good idea if you don’t know what you’re doing. Take the guesswork out of the equation and get in contact with an expert solar installer.
Compare solar electricity plans
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Ausgrid network in Sydney but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 3911kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Citipower network in Melbourne but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Energex network in Brisbane but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4613kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on SA Power network in Adelaide but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4011kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
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