Solar batteries has gotten very popular in the past years. But how safe are these batteries? It’s understandably a top-of-mind concern — after all, when you get right down to it, what we’re dealing with here is electricity and batteries, two things that can cause disastrous results if they are mishandled.
So we’ve compiled this handy guide to all the pertinent information you need to know about the safety of solar panel batteries to help you make an informed decision when choosing solar panels for your home or business.
How Safe Are Solar Panel Batteries?
The good news is that solar panel batteries are relatively safe. That means they store energy safely and don’t present a fire risk — unless you misuse them. To be completely safe, you should always keep batteries away from heat sources and dispose of them properly when they reach the end of their lives. Like any other battery, there is a risk of fire with the use of solar batteries. As such, it is essential to maintain the recommended voltage and temperature for safe operation.
What Are The Types Of Solar Panel Batteries?
The most common type of solar panel battery is the lead-acid battery, which is a cheaper and more accessible option. Lithium-ion is the newest type of solar panel battery and has the longest lifespan, but they’re also the most expensive. Below, we discuss each type of solar panel battery in detail and compare them to help you decide which one is right for your home.
Lead-acid batteries – The most common type of battery today, lead-acid batteries are inexpensive but have a shorter lifespan than newer technologies and require more maintenance. They also tend to work less efficiently in hotter climates. They come in two varieties: flooded and sealed. Flooded cells require regular maintenance such as adding water to keep them from drying out; sealed cells do not require this maintenance.
Lithium-ion batteries – Lithium-ion batteries are among the newest technologies on the market and have become popular because they last longer than other types of batteries — up to 15 years — and do not require as much maintenance as lead-acid or nickel-cadmium batteries. However, they also cost substantially more than other types of batteries.
Nickel-cadmium batteries- Nickel-cadmium is similar to lithium-ion in that they’re lighter, requires less maintenance, and is more durable than lead-acid batteries. These batteries are also less likely to explode or release toxic substances when there’s a problem with one of these batteries. Like lithium-ion batteries, they’re a better choice than lead-acid batteries for storing energy from solar panels. They’re also significantly cheaper than lithium batteries but aren’t as widely available.
Flow batteries – Flow batteries store energy in external tanks instead of internal cells. Instead of using solid electrodes like other types of batteries, flow batteries use liquids stored in external tanks to generate electricity. Flow batteries are very similar to lead-acid batteries but offer increased longevity and capacity. Flow batteries have a long lifespan and are good for heavy-duty applications such as industrial backup power supplies or electric vehicles.
A Damaged Battery Can Cause A Fire
Solar panel batteries should be tested regularly for damage. You can do this by simply checking the battery visually for cracks or leaks in the case, which could indicate a problem. If you see any problems with your battery, call a professional immediately to have it checked out and repaired or replaced before use. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the circuit breaker immediately to prevent a potential fire hazard from sparking an electrical charge. You should also keep your battery well
When you’re planning to utilise solar panel batteries as your standby power system, it is best to consider the following:
1. Determine how much power you need.
2. Identify how long you will need your backup power.
3. Select the right type of solar battery for your needs.
But if you’re not sure what solar panel battery is best suited for you, contact the experts at Mclean Energy! We have years of experience in the solar industry and can help you find the perfect solar solution. We also install solar panel batteries so that you can get the most out of your renewable energy system.
As long as you understand the proper way to handle solar panel batteries, there’s no reason at all to fear them. You should feel safe and secure knowing that your solar batteries are installed properly and functioning optimally.
