Path-Q Solar
Which circuits should be connected to a solar battery for basic outage backup?
Answer
Connect circuits that provide safety, essential communications, food preservation, water, and basic comfort, while excluding large discretionary loads unless the battery is specifically sized for them. Typical candidates may include refrigeration, lighting, internet equipment, selected outlets, alarms, medical equipment, and a well pump, subject to the system's power limits.
Key points
- Prioritize loads by safety, health, water, food, communications, and practical necessity.
- Separate high-demand heating, cooling, cooking, electric-vehicle, and water-heating loads unless intentionally included.
- Circuit selection should account for starting surges and simultaneous operation.
- A critical-loads panel or managed-load arrangement can prevent overloads.
What it depends on
- Household priorities and medical or accessibility needs
- Circuit layout and panel configuration
- Battery energy, continuous output, and surge capability
- Whether loads can be managed or shed automatically
Risks and trade-offs
- Backing up too many circuits can exhaust the battery quickly or overload the inverter.
- Backing up too few circuits may leave important outlets or equipment unavailable.
- Circuit reassignment can require electrical work and should not be improvised by the homeowner.
Information you may need
- Panel schedule and circuit loads
- Appliance running and startup power
- Desired outage duration and priority ranking
- Battery and backup equipment ratings
Your next step
What to do next
Mark proposed critical circuits on the panel schedule and ask the installer to verify their combined energy, continuous power, and startup demand.
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