How Long Will a Solar Battery Last on Long Island?

Solar batteries last an average of 5 to 15 years, depending on the battery technology, quality, and type of installation. If you’re considering adding battery backup to your Long Island home, getting a durable battery system will improve your return on investment.

The Best Solar Battery Energy Storage Systems for Durability

The best solar battery for durability is a high-quality integration using Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry. Power Solutions, the most trusted solar installer on Long Island, installs LFP-based systems from leading brands, including Generac and Tesla.

Do Generac PWRcell Solar Batteries Last Longer than Tesla Powerwall Batteries?

Tesla and Generac use similar technologies with different design philosophies. Both batteries are long-lasting and come with 10-year warranties.

• Tesla’s system is highly integrated, ensuring a smoother and more predictable installation. The inverter and battery are combined in an all-in-one unit, so the physical installation is simpler. The Powerwall 3 is a 13.5 kWh fixed unit.
• The Generac PWRcell 2 is a modular system with a customizable cabinet. Modules can expand the cabinet to capacities from 9 kWh to 18 kWh, but it’s possible to stack up to four cabinets for 72kWh of storage for the largest homes.

We install Tesla systems for customers who need a highly reliable battery energy storage system with excellent software and support. The Powerwall 3 is a popular choice for families who simply want uninterrupted and reliable backup power.

The Generac PWRcell 2 system is a better choice for larger homes or those with unique energy demands. In cases where the backup requirements are above average, we will often recommend a larger PWRcell 2 modular system.

Your Solar Battery After the Warranty Period

The warranty period isn’t “end-of-life” for a solar battery. It’s simply the limit of manufacturer support. Both Tesla and Generac guarantee that their batteries will retain 70% of their original capacities after the first 10 years.

Either system could last longer than 10 years in ideal conditions. And, because these are LFP battery systems, there is no risk of thermal runaway as batteries degrade. LFP batteries can be charged up to 100% daily with much less degradation than older cobalt-based batteries.

Bonus Solar Battery Tip

Tesla and Generac require online connectivity to push firmware updates to their battery systems. You could lose your warranty coverage if you disconnect your internet for long periods. You should frequently monitor battery statistics through the Tesla App for Energy (Powerwall systems) or the PWRview App (Generac systems) to ensure that connectivity is working.

Power Solutions will set you up with any necessary solar and battery monitoring apps after your installation. It’s part of our free SMART Solar Program, which includes additional benefits like 24/7 live support from our Long Island team.

Expert Integration for Longer Lasting Battery Backup Solutions

Power Solutions carefully plans battery layouts and locations to maximize reliability and service life.

• Attached Garage Installation (Best): This is the most environmentally stable location for a solar battery meeting strict Nassau and Suffolk County building codes.
• Utility Room or Basement (Average): A basement or utility room separate from a habitable living space is the second-best option. This isn’t always available if you have a finished basement.
• Outside (Last Resort): Outdoor installation is the last resort. Exposing a battery to the extreme temperature variations of Long Island’s climate can degrade performance and durability. We will choose a location out of direct sunlight.

Getting the right solar battery for Long Island isn’t as simple as choosing a brand. It’s a decision based on your energy demands, potential installation locations, and your budget. Power Solutions offers detailed consultations to help you explore your battery options.

Request your free estimate online or contact us at (631) 348-0001 to get started.