When you want to go off-grid with solar, it can seem daunting especially when you’re not sure what type of battery type to choose for your system. There are a lot of different types of solar batteries on the market, and it can be hard to decide which one is right for you.
If you’re feeling undecided as to what to choose, then this is the right article for you. As the leaders in power products and solutions, Goscor Power Products (and their specialist off-grid power division, Off Grid Power Solutions) are here to help! then We compare lithium-ion batteries vs gel batteries so that you can make an informed decision about which type of battery is best for your needs.
What Are Lithium-Ion Batteries?
A lithium-ion solar battery is a combination of lithium-ion and phosphor cells which are highly efficient when it comes to storing energy. They are regarded as the superior battery to choose when it comes to solar power systems because they have a higher depth of discharge.
What Are Gel Batteries?
Solar gel batteries are otherwise known as deep cycle batteries and were previously the most common type of battery used in solar power systems. However, gel batteries have limited efficiency and cannot do as many discharge cycles as a lithium-ion battery can.
What is the Difference Between Lithium-Ion and Gel Batteries?
Wondering, is a gel battery better, or is a lithium-ion one better? Here’s a breakdown on some main elements of the two types of batteries for solar systems:
Major factors relating to the difference between lithium-ion and gel batteries include:
How Do You Choose The Right Solar Battery for your Needs?
When it comes to the debate of gel vs lithium-ion battery, there are a few elements to consider before deciding which is best for you.
What Is Your Budget?
Gel batteries cost much less than lithium-ion batteries, so if you’re installing a solar system in your home or office on a tight budget you might only be able to consider gel batteries. If you are not limited to price, then lithium-ion batteries are a better investment in efficiency by far.
What Are Your Power Requirements?
Your crucial power requirements are also an important factor to consider when deciding between the two battery types. If you require a larger draw, that will mean and system that requires more panels, more batteries and more inverters, which will inevitably mean a higher price.
Are There Any Downsides to Using Lithium-Ion or Gel Batteries?
We asked Goscor Power Products Managing Director, Mark Bester, this question. His response was simple, “the only down side to using lithium-ion batteries is the initial cost. However, this cost is offset over time. Gel batteries have a shorter life span which means they do not last for as many cycles as lithium-ion batteries do, making them less efficient.”
How Do You Care for Lithium-Ion and Gel Batteries?
All batteries need should be maintained in similar ways to get the most efficiency out of them. Here are our top tips for caring for both battery types:
Which Type of Battery is Best for your Solar Project – Lithium Ion or Gel?
In Mark’s opinion, if you have the budget, he highly recommends going with lithium-ion batteries for your solar power needs. “Lithium-ion batteries have a built-in battery management system which protects the batteries from over charging and overheating too. They may cost more, but they give you much more energy efficiency over a longer period of time in the long run.” Says Mark.
For more advice on which batteries will suit your needs and your budget, chat to the power specialists at Off Grid Power Solutions today. We are the specialist alternative power division of Goscor Power Products.