With the recent unwelcome, but not unsurprising, return to loadshedding, accompanied by the almost weekly prolonged power cuts across many municipalities, residents, be these homes or businesses, are often left scratching their heads as to why their power backup is not working.
Who can blame them? During the height of the loadshedding pandemic – because that is what it was, it was throttling our economy – there was a mad rush to invest in solar and uninterrupted power backup solutions. Every installer and their uncle, even those who had just joined the industry out of opportunism, were making promises about quality and expertise to get the signature on the dotted line. Payments were made, installations were completed, and households and businesses believed they were protected against unpredictable and unreliable power supply.
Fast forward to 2025. Some provinces are enduring uncharacteristically wet and overcast conditions for this time of the year. It is not uncommon to overhear the following complaint, or variations of it: “Why does the power always go out when it is overcast?”
Of course, we all know what this means. It means that the person making the comment had relied on their solar installation, complete with its battery back-up, to protect them against being powerless. They expected the system to last. This is not an absurd expectation when one considers that many of these systems are only a year or two old.
The solar panels should be generating power when the sun is shining, and the batteries should be storing that power that is not used. These are complex systems that involve panels, batteries, inverters and electrical engineering that uncertified installers should never attempt. When things do not work as they should, you get two scenarios: One where there is support, and the other where you are left in the dark for inexplicably long periods of time.
The same can be said for home UPS systems, whether these are properly installed automatic systems or plug-and-play variations. The first consideration is safety – electricity is dangerous when things are done incorrectly – and the second is that poorly configured setups simply do not prolong the life of batteries; they shorten them. Similarly, poor advice and no service mean many people are left with something akin to useless decor and not a backup system.
What, then, should people know about prolonging the life of their power backup systems? There are a few non-negotiables if you want to ensure your system performs as intended, when you need it to. All the tips below will be taken into consideration, explained, and automated when working with a reputable company that installs world-class systems comprising reputable brands.
1. Always work with reputable suppliers and installers.
This may seem obvious, but it cannot be overstated. When it comes to battery brands, look for those that have withstood the test of time and offer full local support in case something goes wrong. Any brand that has been around for less than three years, arrived during the peak of loadshedding and is likely not in the business for the long haul. Look for geographical footprint. Ideally, you want to have expertise that can provide support as needed. Some battery brands require overseas support, and those waiting times certainly will not benefit a business, for example, which needs backup for business-critical functions.
2. It is all in the chemistry
By now, most people should have a good, clear understanding that lithium iron phosphate (LifePO4) batteries are superior in every way to the cheaper lead acid and other lithium-ion batteries. What fewer people know, and which is very important, is that 2nd LiFe lithium iron phosphate batteries come with an added advantage. Because the cells are repurposed from electric vehicle batteries, they have had to pass far more stringent performance and safety tests than batteries made exclusively for storage. In harsh African conditions, this is a compelling advantage.
3. Ensure battery charging is optimal
Avoid fast charging as much as possible to prolong a battery’s life. Secondly, avoid allowing a battery to drain completely. Even though it is lead acid, think about the time your car’s battery drained completely – it was never the same again. The optimal state of charge for batteries is between 20% and 80%. However, regularly charging to 100% is crucial to maintain maximum capacity and correct state of charge parameters. This is how you can prolong battery life and enjoy optimal performance.
4. Batteries perform best at room temperature
Extreme hot or cold can damage battery cells and reduce their lifespan, which means the ideal battery location is an enclosed, cool space. However, this is not always possible, which is why the hardier, proven resilience of cells in 2nd LiFe batteries, which have endured extremely hot temperatures and rapid charge and discharge rates in their life in an EV, are often preferred.
5. Long-term storage requires some preparation
If you plan to store batteries for an extended period, there is a specific procedure you must follow to ensure optimal battery health. Charge the battery to 50% and then store it. After six months, run your battery through one full cycle, then recharge to 50% and store it again.
6. Avoid battery overuse
Ensure that you have the correct number and configuration of batteries to meet your demand. Do not overload your system, and whenever possible, prioritise essential loads. Running a system at maximum load or 1C every day is a sure way to reduce its life. The best way to ensure this is done correctly is to work with approved installers who have the support of local battery supply teams. Always listen to, and never ignore, system alarms and warnings.
7. A little exercise is needed
This may sound bizarre, but your own body operates better when it is exercised. It is the same for batteries. Discharge and charge your system by 25% every seven days – this prevents long-term degradation. A properly designed installation will take care of this. For UPS systems, ensure they remain plugged into the power source to maintain optimal battery charge, protecting against unexpected power outages. Avoid micro-cycling, a situation where the battery is discharged by less than 5% and recharged multiple times a day.
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