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Power outages are always inconvenient, but they can even be dangerous in some circumstances. They can cause your HVAC system to stop working, potentially sending your temperatures soaring, and they’ll also leave you groping around in the dark, increasing the risk of falls.
Of course, in an ideal world, you’d have some kind of standby power option that could power your home during blackouts. That’s exactly what a battery backup system can do.
We’ll explain more about battery backup systems for your home below. We’ll also share a few of the things you’ll want to look for when picking a specific model and identify the five best options on the market.
What Is a Home Battery Backup System?
A home battery backup system is essentially a big, rechargeable battery that stores electricity. When you lose power, it takes over and keeps your lights, HVAC, appliances, and electronic devices working as they should. Some backup batteries only have enough capacity to power a handful of devices, but some — known as whole-home battery backups — are capable of powering everything in your house.
Picking a Home Battery Backup System: Things to Think About
Choosing the right battery backup system for your home isn’t just about picking the biggest or most expensive model — it’s about finding a solution that matches your household’s needs, budget, and lifestyle. Here are a few key factors to consider as you compare options:
- Your Power Needs: You’ll want to begin your search by deciding what things you need to keep running during outages. Some batteries can power your whole home, while others are only capable of powering the essentials.
- The Battery Capacity (kWh): The battery’s capacity determines how much energy it can store. The greater the capacity, the longer the battery can provide backup power.
- Power Output (kW): Large appliances require more power than batteries with low power-output ratings can provide. So, make sure you choose a system with an output capable of meeting your household demands.
- Chemistry & Safety: Most modern home batteries use either lithium iron phosphate (LFP) or lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC). LFP batteries tend to last longer and handle heat better, making them safer.
- Expandability: Some battery backup systems are modular, meaning you can start adding more capacity as you go. This is great for homeowners with limited budgets who would like to expand in the future.
- Solar Compatibility: If you already have or plan to install solar panels, you’ll want to ensure your battery can integrate with the panels. Some models even come with a built-in inverter for cleaner connections.
- Warranty & Support: Look for batteries with warranties of at least 10 years to ensure that you’re protected against premature problems and outright failure.
The Five Best Home Battery Backup Systems
Now that you understand the basics of battery backup systems and know a few of the things you’ll want to look for, we can share some of the leading products available. Be sure to let your Alpha Omega Electric technician know if you see a specific model that catches your eye.
1. EG4 PowerPro WallMount All‑Weather Battery
Likely the best option for most homeowners, the EG4 PowerPro WallMount is a rugged, weatherproof battery designed to provide serious backup power in all climates. With 14.3 kWh of usable energy and 10 kW of continuous output, it’s powerful enough to keep your home fully operational during extended outages. It’s a great choice for homeowners who want the highest-quality energy storage available.
Pros
- High capacity (14.3 kWh) and 10 kW continuous power output
- Weatherproof (IP65) case protects it from the elements
- Features dual fire arrestors and an emergency stop function
- It’s compatible with multiple inverter brands for solar use
Cons
- It weighs more than 300 pounds and must be wall-mounted
- It’s a bit more expensive than entry-level systems
2. Tesla Powerwall 3
The Tesla Powerwall 3 is the latest version of Tesla’s popular home battery product line, and it is designed to operate as a standalone backup system or integrate with your home’s solar panels. It offers higher continuous power output than previous models and requires fewer units to power your entire home. If you’re looking for a backup battery with a sleek design that offers mobile app control and proven reliability, the Powerwall 3 is a great choice.
Pros:
- Suitable for large appliances and HVAC systems
- Features an all-in-one design with an integrated inverter for solar systems
- The Tesla app provides real-time monitoring and control capabilities
- It works perfectly with a variety of photovoltaic (solar) systems
Cons:
- Availability is limited
- It’s more expensive than some alternatives
- Provides better efficiency and ROI when used with a solar system
3. BLUETTI AC500 + B300S
The BLUETTI AC500 paired with B300S modules offers a modular, plug-and-play home battery system that’s ideal for grid-powered homes. It delivers reliable backup power, charges quickly, and is easy to expand over time. Best of all, this battery system can be charged from multiple sources, including the grid, solar power systems, your car, a generator, or a lead-acid battery.
Pros
- Modular design is easy to expand over time
- Fast charging and UPS functionality
- Long-lasting LiFePO₄ battery chemistry
- Can be charged in multiple ways
Cons
- May need multiple modules for whole-home backup
- It’s a bit bulky and utilizes separate components
- Not as attractive as some wall-mounted systems
4. EcoFlow OCEAN Pro
The EcoFlow OCEAN Pro is a high-capacity home energy system that can scale from 10 kWh to an incredible 80 kWh. This makes it suitable for everything from small homes to palatial estates. Capable of providing up to 24 kW of continuous output and capable of being charged via solar panels, the grid, and a generator, this battery backup offers fantastic flexibility. And its advanced AI-driven management helps optimize energy usage and extend the battery’s lifespan.
Pros:
- Its high capacity and output make it a great choice for homeowners with significant power needs
- Can be charged via solar, grid, or generator systems
- AI-driven optimization provides unmatched efficiency
- It works well in both off-grid and grid-tied scenarios
Cons:
- It requires more space than some other systems
- It’s more expensive than many similar (but lower-powered) models
- It’s likely overkill for small homes with modest backup needs
5. FranklinWH aPower 2
The FranklinWH aPower 2 delivers 15 kWh of storage and 10 kW of continuous power, making it one of the most capable single-unit home batteries on the market. It’s also a flexible unit that’s designed to work as a whole-home backup, integrate with your solar power system, or connect to a generator. It’s also backed by the manufacturer’s 15-year warranty and enclosed in a rugged IP67-rated (water-resistant) case.
Pros
- Provides both a high power output and a generous capacity
- Includes a 15-year warranty
- Works with solar, generator, and EV systems, providing great flexibility
- Can be scaled to 225 kWh by adding additional units
Cons
- It’s large, heavy, and requires lots of wall space
- It’s not an entry-level system, nor is it priced like one
- Some of its advanced features are only usable with the FranklinWH’s aGate controller
Home Battery Backup Systems for Homeowners: FAQ
Still have questions about home battery backup systems? Still trying to pick out the ideal model for your needs? We’ll share a few answers to some of the most common questions we hear from homeowners below.
How much is a whole-house battery backup system?
The price for a whole-house battery backup system varies based on a number of factors, including the system’s capacity, power output, and features. As a general guideline, affordable, entry-level systems start at about $3,000, while high-end systems that provide tons of power output may cost $15,000 or more.
How much battery backup is needed to run a house?
This varies from one house to the next, as well as with the length of time you need to power the house. However, a 10- to 15kWh system can usually operate your essential appliances for about 24 hours.
How long will a whole-house battery backup last?
When properly installed and maintained, a whole-house backup battery should last for 10 to 15 years.
Are home battery systems worth it?
For homeowners who suffer from frequent power outages, they are incredibly valuable. When sized properly, they can not only help keep your lights, audio-visual equipment, Wi-Fi, home surveillance, and smart devices powered, but also your refrigerator, dishwasher, and other appliances.
Trust Alpha Omega Electric for Your Home Backup Battery Installation Needs!
No matter which battery backup system you think is right for your home, proper installation is essential. This is the only way to know for certain that you’ll have backup power during the next blackout. The professionals at Alpha Omega Electric would love to help. Our electricians have the skills, experience, and expertise to provide you with a fully functional battery backup system for your home.
