The Best Batteries for Solar Panels: What They Have in Common

If you’re considering installing a solar energy storage system, you’re likely wondering about the best batteries for solar panels.

Even if you’re not interested in going totally “off-grid,” finding the best battery for a solar system is a great way to get the most value from your investment.

As you evaluate your battery options, you’ll find that the best batteries for solar power storage have a lot in common.

Here’s what you need to know.

The Best Batteries for Solar Power Storage: Your Top 4 Options

Wondering which batteries the pros think are best for solar panel storage systems?

Here are the top four options:

1. Lead Acid Batteries

Lead acid batteries are deep-cycle batteries that have been used in off-grid solar power systems for many years.

When you’re using solar panels for energy storage, lead-acid batteries can be less expensive than their lithium-ion counterparts and may be easier to find than many other battery types.

2. Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are currently the most common storage technology. Used in many applications beyond solar energy storage, they’re popular in smartphones, power tools, and electric cars.

The types of lithium-ion batteries used in solar lithium battery storage are known as prismatic batteries.

While prismatic batteries are slightly more expensive than lead acid batteries, they feature built-in technology to prevent over-charging and over-discharging and may deliver more cycles than their lead-acid counterparts.

3. Flow Batteries

Flow batteries are another popular solar energy storage option.

Cost-effective and efficient, these cells are larger than their counterparts and will require additional installation space. They last much longer than other batteries and are not toxic.

4. Nickel Cadmium

Nickel-cadmium batteries have been used since the early part of the 1900s. While they don’t provide the energy density of other solar battery storage options, they offer an extended lifecycle and are easy to manage and maintain.

What to Look for in Solar Batteries

Before you can outfit your home with solar batteries, you’ve got to understand what you’re looking for from your solar energy storage system, and how to choose the right solar storage batteries for sale. Here are a few things we always recommend homeowners consider:

The Size of the Battery

The size of the battery has a direct impact on how functional it will be for your home. If you’re not sure what size battery you need, ask a solar energy professional to help you.

They’ll take factors like intended use and the size of your home into consideration as they make a recommendation.

Depth of Discharge

Depth of discharge (DoD) is a term used to describe how much capacity the battery uses.

Most solar battery manufacturers specify a maximum DoD when they build their batteries. If you keep the battery within this range, it’ll last longer and operate more efficiently than if you push it outside the recommended range.

If you’re on the hunt for a deep cycle battery, OutBack Power is a great brand to consider. Specializing in nano-carbon technology, these batteries offer an extended lifespan and outstanding functionality.

Warranty

The warranty of a battery has a significant impact on its value.

Most batteries guarantee functionality for a certain number of cycles or years. This assures you that the battery’s performance won’t markedly degrade within that time and that the battery will maintain capacity for its stated lifespan.

Sonnen, for example, is a battery manufacturer that guarantees its products up to 10,000 cycles or ten years, and is known for the long lifespan of their batteries.

What the Best Solar Batteries Have in Common

While your battery options are numerous, the best batteries have a few things in common. Here’s what to look for:

• Your solar battery system of choice should be efficient. Remember - you want something that adds to the functionality of your home instead of detracting from it.

• A Great Warranty. While the specific warranty you should look for depends on the size and purpose of your system, searching for a battery with an extended warranty is an excellent way to protect your investment.

• A Quality Manufacturer. There are dozens of different battery manufacturers out there, but it’s smart to stick with trusted brands. Sonnen and OutBack Power are particularly notable, although your solar energy installer can help you identify other brands to consider.

Find the Best Battery for Your Solar Panels

If you’re shopping for a solar battery storage system, it’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed by the options.

From the different types of batteries available to the various factors that influence battery quality, it’s easy to get bogged down in all the information.

Here at Sandbar Solar, we specialize in helping our customers choose the correct solar batteries for their home systems.

When you realize what each type of battery has in common, it’s easier to make a smart decision for your solar storage setup.

To learn more about solar batteries contact Sandbar Solar today.

Sandbar Solar is an established, locally-owned solar company that’s been in business for more than 13 years.

Our services include free estimates, custom design, and expert installation. We’re proud of our reputation for designing and installing the most efficient solar panels for the Central Coast - including Santa Cruz and Monterey counties - as well as San Jose and the Bay Area.

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