Path-Q Solar
What battery size is appropriate if I want backup only for medical equipment?
Answer
Size the system from the medical equipment's measured or documented power draw, startup demand, and required backup duration, then add the inverter and battery reserve needed for conversion losses and operating limits. The equipment should be placed on a clearly defined critical-load circuit.
Key points
- Battery power in kilowatts must handle simultaneous running and startup loads.
- Usable battery energy in kilowatt-hours should cover the required hours, not merely the battery's nominal capacity.
- Include essential supporting loads such as a refrigerator, communications equipment, or monitoring devices only if they are required.
- For medically critical equipment, maintain an independent backup plan and confirm that the equipment tolerates the proposed power system.
What it depends on
- Equipment wattage, startup characteristics, and duty cycle
- Required backup duration and outage expectations
- Inverter output quality and surge capability
- Critical-load wiring and transfer equipment
Risks and trade-offs
- A battery sized only for average consumption may fail during startup or higher-demand periods.
- Longer backup duration increases battery capacity and cost.
- Solar may not recharge reliably during extended poor-weather outages.
Information you may need
- Manufacturer power requirements for each device
- Required runtime and acceptable interruption characteristics
- Other loads on the medical backup circuit
- Battery usable capacity, inverter rating, and transfer-system specifications
Your next step
What to do next
Obtain the equipment manuals and have a qualified installer prepare a dedicated critical-load calculation and backup quote.
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