How do I add a battery?
How do I add a battery to my solar system?
You might want to add a battery to your solar panel system for the first time, or to expand your battery storage from its existing setup. Your available options will depend on the details of your solar panel install, if you're not sure please do contact your PureVolt installation team as we are here to help.
If you're in the early stage of considering battery storage, visit our article at solar batteries - pros and cons to help you learn more, including our real life example.
New technology for retrofitting a battery
Adding a battery to a system that was not originally set up for one is called retrofitting. New technology, such as the EcoFlow device, allows you to keep your original inverter, which is the box that manages your solar system, and add a kit that lets a battery connect to it. This is a great option for those with solar panel systems that previously couldn't take a battery without major rewiring. If you were ever told in the past that your system fell into this category, do contact us and we can advise you on this new way of retrofitting a battery without the upheaval that used to be involved.
1. Adding additional batteries to expand storage
You will face a restriction on what you can add based on your existing solar inverter and battery setup. The battery make and model in some cases will be the determining factor here. Different battery options also have different price points, customers should contact us to look the existing solar PV system specifications including:
- Battery brand and model
- Current inverter type
From here we can advise on the best options for adding additional battery storage capacity to your existing system.
2. Adding a battery for the first time
a. With a hybrid inverter
A hybrid inverter is one that can already handle a battery. If that is what you have, adding one for the first time is generally straightforward. Contact us and we can look up your inverter type.
b. With a string inverter
A string inverter is one that was built for panels only, with no battery in mind. Adding a battery is still possible using the new technology mentioned above. This may involve installing an extra device, so please contact us directly as we will need to look up your existing system details.
Conclusion
You have options for both hybrid and string inverters, and what you can expand will depend on your existing setup. Your PureVolt installation team are best placed to look up your system details and advise you based on what you already have and what you need. A few important points to help you decide:
Always check that the battery you want is compatible with your existing inverter.
If your battery model is no longer made, you may not be able to add newer units to the same setup.
You can now retrofit a battery without changing your existing inverter.
Always contact your PureVolt installation team for expert advice on your specific system.
Need a hand?
Get in touch with your installation team at PureVolt.ie and we can look up your existing system details. Tell us what you would like to achieve and we will talk you through the options that suit your setup.
You might also find these guides useful:
- Solar battery pros & cons — weigh up the benefits and drawbacks of adding battery storage to your solar system.
- Our solar battery brands — see the battery brands we install and what sets them apart.
- Solar battery guide — our complete guide to home solar battery storage.