10 Questions to Ask When Thinking About Home Battery Storage

Thinking about home battery storage? Here's what you need to know.

Considering a home battery storage system can be a big decision, but Vaulta is here to help make it easier. Home battery storage offers a lot of benefits, from energy savings to increased self-sufficiency, meaning you’re less reliant on power from the grid.

Before we unpack some key questions and considerations, let’s get clear on the basics: just what is a home battery system?

A home battery system stores excess energy generated by your solar panels (or from the grid) and allows you to use it later. This can help you save on energy bills, ensure you still have power during outages, and reduce your reliance on the grid. 

Batteries are sized by their capacity, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), which indicates how much energy they can store. Knowing this will help you determine which home battery is best for your specific needs.

Now, let's dive into some common questions (and answers) to help guide you through the process of considering a home battery storage system.

1. What Does a Home Battery Cost?

Typically, a home battery storage system will cost between $800 and $1200 per kWh, depending on the system size, whether a new inverter is required, and the complexity of the installation. 

“How much is home battery storage” can be a tricky question. Providing detailed information to your installer upfront, including site photos, your current solar system specs and electricity bills, can help you get a more accurate quote and avoid unexpected costs. 

The more information you provide, the clearer the installer can be about potential challenges and costs, ensuring there are no surprises down the line.

2. What Size Home Battery Do I Need?

Think of battery capacity as the size of a jug (measured in kWh) and power output as how fast you can pour it out (measured in kW). Most households use around 5-7kW during peak times, but those with higher energy needs may require more. 

Home batteries typically range from 10-13kWh, but with increasing energy demands, larger systems are becoming more common. It's important to know your typical energy usage and also to consider any future needs – such as electric vehicle charging or adding more appliances – to make sure your battery system can handle the load.

3. How Long Will the Battery Last During a Power Outage?

The duration a battery lasts during an outage depends on its capacity and your usage. For example, a 10-13kWh battery might last 1-2 hours with normal usage. However, if you prioritise just the essential loads like fridges and lights, it could last 10-16 hours or more. 

If you feel like you need or want more power or may experience extended outages, it’s definitely worth considering a larger system, which might mean looking at adding more capacity or even multiple batteries. 

4. Is the Battery System Compatible with My Existing Solar Panels?

Most modern solar systems are compatible with home batteries, especially if they have a hybrid inverter, while older systems may require a new inverter or a battery-dedicated one.

But even without solar panels, batteries can charge from the grid, particularly if you have an electric vehicle or can take advantage of off-peak rates. Compatibility is key to ensuring seamless integration and how to get the best performance, so it's important to have a professional assess your current setup and recommend any necessary upgrades.

5. Can I Charge My Home Battery from the Grid?

Yes! You can definitely charge your home battery from the grid, especially during off-peak times when electricity is cheaper. This allows you to use stored energy during peak hours, reducing your energy bills even further. 

Some energy retailers offer special rates for charging batteries, making it a cost-effective option even without solar panels. Additionally, using grid power to charge your battery can be a great backup strategy during cloudy days or extended periods of low solar production.

6. What Are the Potential Savings on My Energy Bills Over Time?

A properly sized solar and battery system can significantly reduce your power bills – potentially down to zero! As solar feed-in tariffs decrease, storing excess solar energy in a battery to use at night becomes more and more cost-effective. 

Even without solar panels, you can benefit from lower rates offered by some energy retailers during off-peak times, making battery storage a very economical option. Over time, the savings on your energy bills will offset the initial investment in the battery system, meaning long-term financial benefits.

7. Is the System Scalable to Add More Capacity in the Future?

Most battery systems are scalable, allowing you to add more storage as needed. Some systems offer fixed upgrades, while others provide flexible options. 

We find starting with your current needs and expanding later is often a practical approach, and is one of the reasons people choose Vaulta as their long-term battery storage solution partner. Scalability ensures that your system can grow with your energy needs, whether you expand your home, add new appliances, or purchase an electric vehicle.

8. Are There Any Special Requirements for Installation?

Home batteries can be installed indoors or outdoors, but they should be protected from direct weather. Australian standards may require a fire-proof backing if the battery is installed near living spaces, and installing a smoke alarm near the battery is also a good safety measure. 

It's also important to consider ventilation and accessibility for any maintenance that may be needed down the line, helping ensure your battery’s safety and longevity.

9. Can I Monitor the Battery Performance and Energy Usage in Real-Time?

Yes, you can! Most battery systems come with monitoring capabilities through an inverter and smart metre. These systems provide real-time insights into solar production, battery charge, and household energy usage, and are usually accessible through a user-friendly dashboard. 

Monitoring your system allows you to optimise your energy consumption, identify any issues early, and maximise the efficiency of your home battery storage system.

10. Are Home Battery Systems Worth It?

Investing in a home battery system can offer significant long-term savings, increased energy independence, and peace of mind during power outages. With the right system and setup, home batteries can definitely be a smart and worthwhile investment. 

By reducing reliance on the grid, you can protect yourself against rising energy costs and improve your home's resilience. Consulting with a trusted installer will help you determine the best system for your needs and ensure you get the most value from your investment.

Why Choose a Vaulta Battery System?

At Vaulta, our products are recognised for their cutting-edge technology and innovative design. Our Australian-made batteries are not only simple to install, but also easy to disassemble and recycle, helping us move towards a more sustainable future.

When you choose a Vaulta product, you’re choosing a partner who is committed to quality and reliability, whether you’re looking to power your new ‘treechange’ home or commercial space. 

With the right system and setup, home batteries can definitely be a smart and worthwhile investment, offering significant long-term savings, increased energy independence, and peace of mind during power outages. 

By addressing these key questions, you'll be well on your way to deciding if home battery storage is right for you. For more personalised advice, find a trusted installer and chat with them to find the best fit for your energy needs.