One Los Angeles homeowner looking to upgrade their solar-battery system took to social media after discovering a frustrating limitation: It couldn't keep the lights on during a blackout.
Here's what to know
"I have an existing system + battery, but no backup capability. I would now like to add that capability but prefer not to use the existing installer," the original poster explained in Reddit's r/solar community. "... Any risks I should consider before getting bids from other installers?"
The homeowner shared details about their system, listing a 10T battery and an IQ Combiner 4 alongside 15 QCell panels rated at 400 watts each and Enphase IQ8 microinverters.
Commenters added their two cents in the thread, approving of OP's plan to use a new installer.
"Switching installers here is reasonable, and the warranty question is simpler than it sounds," one wrote. "Enphase's equipment warranty stays with the equipment as long as the new installer is Enphase-certified. What you lose is the original installer's workmanship warranty, which sounds like it was not worth much anyway given your experience."
The top commenter added: "It's all going to come down to the new installer and how they chose to handle things. Some are just trying to crank out sites; others prefer the loyal customer and great service business model."
Another user agreed, stating: "Sounds like your original installer sucked anyway. Best thing to do now is build a decent relationship with a new installer."
Battery storage can protect your home during outages when configured for backup power. It can also help save money on energy and provide energy independence by storing solar electricity for later use.
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Homeowners can explore EnergySage to learn about home battery storage options, including competitive installation estimates. EnergySage has teamed up with electrification brand Qmerit to help homeowners get the best price on home battery storage solutions.
For homeowners considering a small-scale alternative, Pila offers other battery backup options. Its plug-and-play batteries are priced at a fraction of what whole-home backup systems cost and can protect individual appliances, such as a refrigerator.
Where can I learn more?
This homeowner wasn't alone in finding that solar panels and a battery didn't guarantee power during a blackout.
• A homeowner with 8 kW of solar still needed gas cans and extension cords during blackouts.
• One homeowner bought solar and a battery, then learned blackout backup costs extra.
• Another homeowner discovered their solar panels went dark when the electrical grid went down.
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