Which Battery Should I Get?

What Makes a Good Battery?

1. Storage Capacity (kWh)
More capacity means more stored energy. Choose based on your home size and energy use.

2. Power Output (kW)
A higher output allows you to run multiple appliances simultaneously, including high-load devices like washing machines, ovens, or EV chargers.

3. Battery Chemistry
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries last longer, are safer, and degrade more slowly than older lithium-ion types. Most quality batteries now use LiFePO4 as standard.

4. Built-In Inverter
Hybrid batteries come with their own inverter, which simplifies installation and reduces extra equipment costs. AC-coupled batteries require a separate inverter but can be ideal for retrofitting onto existing systems.

5. Smart Features
Many quality batteries offer:

• App-based monitoring
• Grid charging during off-peak times (smart tariffs)
• Backup power during outages

However, it’s important to understand that not all batteries offer proper backup.

True backup capability means the battery can:

• Automatically take over during a power cut
• Power critical loads or even your entire home
• Restart itself without grid power (black start)

At the moment, only Victron and Tesla batteries offer full, reliable backup functionality with minimal extra hardware. Other systems like Fox ESS and SolaX require significant wiring, switchgear, and configuration to make backup usable — and even then, it’s typically limited to a few circuits.

Recommended Battery Brands by Tier

Top Tier – Exceptional Performance and Long-Term Value

Victron- Industry-leading modular systems, ideal for hybrid or off-grid use. Extremely reliable with flexible configurations. Full backup-ready.

‍Tesla-High-performance battery with whole-home backup, smart app integration, and excellent warranty. Ideal for future-proofing.

Mid Tier – Reliable, Well-Supported, and Cost-Effective

Fox ESS-Good hybrid functionality, growing UK presence, solid monitoring features. Limited backup unless extensively configured.

‍SolaX-Reliable and well-supported in the UK market, with strong compatibility across solar systems. Good value, but backup is limited without extra work.

Avoid Low-Tier Batteries at All Costs

There are some very cheap battery systems available in the UK market — but we strongly advise against them.

Brands like Growatt and LuxPower, while tempting on price, often come with:

• Poor long-term support
• Compatibility issues
• Limited or no true backup functionality
• Software and firmware reliability problems

What you save upfront, you often pay for later in poor performance, lost savings, or early replacement.

Which Battery Is Right for You?

If you:

• Want long-term savings and peace of mind
• Value performance, safety, and support
• Prefer a system that just works for years to come

Then we’ll help you choose a battery from the top or mid-tier range, based on your home, energy use, and future plans.

Click here to request your free quote and expert recommendation

No hard sell. No guesswork. Just honest advice and proven systems.

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