If you want reliable power backup for your home during a blackout, buying an inverter isnt enough. You also need to buy inverter battery. The battery is where your power reserve will be stored. The battery charges when the power is on and discharges while distributing power during a blackout. The same battery may be used for conventional inverters as well as sustainable inverters that use solar power. On an average, an inverter battery should last for 8 to 10 years. Thus, this is an investment you must make carefully. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Battery type
Inverter batteries can be broadly classified as flat plate and tubular batteries. The difference between then is their internal structure. Flat plate batteries are usually cheaper than tubular batteries but they have a shorter lifespan. These batteries may also leak toxins and you may want to keep them out of your home. On the other hand, tubular batteries are more efficient, have a longer lifespan and have no danger of emitting toxins of any kind. They also require top ups less frequently and have lower maintenance needs.
Capacity
Like inverters, batteries are available in a range of capacities. The capacity of a battery is measured in terms of Ampere hours or Ah. This battery capacity determines how much power it can store and in turn, how long it can provide backup for in case of a blackout. For example a 200Ah battery should last for about 20 hours. Ideally your battery should match your inverter capacity. Along with the battery capacity, you must also pay attention to the VA or Voltage Ampere rating. This refers to the batter’s efficiency and amount of energy lost during conversion from DC to AC current and vice versa. Ideally, your battery should have a 0.6 to 0.8 VA rating. This means that they have an efficiency of 60 to 80 percent i.e., only 30-40% of the energy is lost during conversion.
Brand
When you buy inverter battery you will find branded and on branded batteries in the market. As you would imagine the local, unbranded inverter batteries are usually cheaper than branded batteries with the same capacity. However it is always better to spend a little extra and invest in a battery from a known brand. Branded inverters are not only made with better quality materials they also offer better after sales installation and maintenance service. These batteries also have a longer lifespan.
Once you buy inverter battery, you must find a cool, well-ventilated place to keep the battery and the inverter. In terms of maintenance, inverter batteries only need to be dusted from time to time and topped up with distilled water. Never use normal bottled water as this can affect the efficiency of the battery as well as its lifespan. Choosing the right battery and looking after it pays rich dividends in terms of reliable power backup in times of power cuts.
