Path-Q Solar

What is the difference between backup for selected circuits and whole-home backup?

Answer

Selected-circuit backup supplies a defined group of essential loads through a protected backup panel, while whole-home backup is designed to serve most or all circuits subject to the system's power and energy limits. Whole-home coverage generally requires greater inverter power, storage, electrical integration, and careful management of high-demand loads.

Key points

  • Selected circuits can prioritize refrigeration, lighting, communications, medical equipment, and selected outlets.
  • Whole-home backup does not necessarily mean every appliance can run simultaneously.
  • Running watts, startup surges, and total energy use matter separately.
  • High-demand loads may need to be excluded, managed, or separately supported.

What it depends on

  • The circuits and appliances to be backed up
  • Inverter continuous and surge ratings
  • Battery usable energy and the home's electrical configuration

Risks and trade-offs

  • Selected-circuit backup is usually simpler and less costly but provides less convenience.
  • Whole-home backup can be more expensive and still require load shedding.
  • Incorrect circuit selection can leave critical equipment unpowered or overload the system.

Information you may need

  • A panel schedule and essential-load list
  • Appliance startup and running demand
  • The proposed transfer equipment, inverter, and battery limits

Your next step

What to do next

Mark essential and nonessential circuits on the electrical panel schedule and compare a selected-circuit design with a whole-home design using measured loads.

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SQ01495