How Long Does a Solar Battery System Last?
Adding a battery to your Long Island solar installation can improve reliability and increase your savings over time. One thing you might want to consider before getting a solar battery is how long it would last. Solar panels can last for over 25 years, but a solar battery isn’t quite as durable. Most battery energy storage systems have a functional lifetime of 10 – 15 years. See what affects battery lifetime and get help deciding if a solar battery is right for you.
What Affects the Lifespan of a Solar Battery?
While most solar batteries will last between 10 and 15 years, there are some factors that can extend or shorten their lifespan.
- Temperature: Extreme hot or cold temperatures can reduce the lifespan of a home battery backup system like the Generac PWRcell or Tesla Powerwall. While battery systems can technically be installed outside, it’s better to have them either covered by a carport or installed in a garage with plenty of ventilation. This will prevent seasonal temperature extremes and maximize lifespan.
- Depth of Discharge: Just like your smartphone or laptop, solar battery systems are more efficient when they are charged before draining to 0%. A deep discharge near 0% puts unnecessary strain on the chemical structure of a battery cell. While a full discharge isn’t always avoidable, it’s better to choose a battery that is sized to avoid frequent deep discharge cycles.
- Charge Rate: Charging a battery too quickly can increase wear. Thankfully, modern solutions from leading battery companies like Panasonic, Generac, and Tesla are designed to prevent charging rates that would damage the battery cells.
- Usage Patterns: Most battery systems have a cycle life of 4,000 to 6,000 cycles and are expected to charge and discharge once a day. Normal use should result in a battery that has between 70% and 80% of its original capacity at the end of its warranty period. If you discharge your battery daily, then it’s likely to be on the lower end of the range after 10 years. If you only use it occasionally, then it could last for much longer than the warranty period.
To put this all into perspective, there are two crucial takeaways:
- The durability of a solar battery is affected by temperature, discharge cycles, and normal usage patterns.
- To ensure you maximize the value and life of a solar battery, you should have it sized and installed by an expert solar installation team.
By ensuring that your solar battery suits your expected energy needs and usage patterns, you can avoid unnecessary wear and get the most from your investment.
Power Solutions is an Expert Solar Installation Company on Long Island
Power Solutions is one of the top-rated solar installers near you on Long Island. Our team has the experience and technology to ensure that your solar battery suits your needs. We will consider your electricity usage patterns and demands to match your home with a battery backup solution that will cover your regular needs without suffering from overuse or early degradation.
It’s important to balance the cost and performance of a solar battery backup solution. We provide detailed estimates and cost/benefit breakdowns to show you how a backup battery would fit into your normal usage patterns and your budget.
Your solar battery installation could qualify for the New York State Solar Tax Credit, worth up to 25% or $5,000 of your total solar system installation.
Get a Home Solar Battery Estimate Today
Whether you want to add a solar battery to an existing solar system, or if you want to start from the ground up with panels and a battery, our team will make the process convenient and stress-free. You can contact us today at (631) 348-0001 or request your free estimate online. Power Solutions is your partner for energy and cost-efficient solar solutions in Nassau and Suffolk Counties.
