Backup generators serve a vital purpose in many homes. If you live in an area that’s prone to power outages, you know how valuable having a backup power source can be both in terms of comfort, your overall well-being, and preventing the loss of perishable goods. Regular blackouts can be caused by frequent bad weather, a weak power grid, or rolling blackouts. When considering backup power options, there are several popular choices. Gas-powered generators and solar energy backup power systems are two such options. While you are likely familiar with traditional gas-powered generators, a solar-powered solution may be a new option you had not considered before. There are many reasons to use a solar energy backup and here are some of them.
Some Advantages Of Solar Energy Backup
- Cost: on a per-kilowatt basis, a solar backup is far more price-efficient than a gas-powered generator. To simplify, it costs more money to run a gas generator than it does to run a solar backup to get the same amount of power.
- Speed: when your power goes out you want your backup solution to engage as fast as possible. A gas-powered generator takes time to engage. By comparison, solar-powered backup activates almost instantly to prevent any issues due to power loss.
- Low Noise: gas generators are noisy and when one is in use it is almost impossible to miss. This high level of noise can be quite annoying over a long period. By comparison, a solar energy backup system is far less noisy and far less intrusive.
- Easy To Maintain: solar-powered systems have a low level of maintenance and, unless a specific repair need arises, they can stay functional for many years with regular maintenance and servicing.
- A Solid Usage Lifespan: in general, solar energy backup solutions can last many years, making them well worth the cost to install.
- Installation Cost: one area of consideration when installing a solar energy backup power system is the upfront costs. These systems can be more expensive than a gas generator. However, the many advantages these systems offer make them well worth the upfront expense.
- Impact To The Environment: the burning of fossil fuels such as gas creates smoke and other exhaust that negatively impacts the environment. A solar backup solution makes use of sunlight and has a far lower impact on the environment.
- Fast Charging Time: a solar backup can be charged in as little as 6 to 12 hours depending on the capacity of your backup and the layout of your solar panels and the associated systems. Your solar backup can also charge as you use it allowing you to keep the power coming into your home even during a power outage.
- Fast Installation Time: if you’re thinking of adding a solar backup to your existing solar power system, you may wonder how long an installation will take. With the help of industry experts, you can have a backup added in as little as a business day.
Final Thoughts
A random power outage can be quite frustrating and if it goes on for too long, can lead to further issues such as a refrigerator full of spoiled food. However, it can also be a danger to your well-being if the power goes out when the weather is very hot or very cold. A solar backup can keep you prepared for energy emergencies.