With the push for alternative energy bringing more commercial viability, several companies are investing in clean energy to stay ahead of the curve. Governments around the world have opened up avenues for investments and innovations, enabling several companies to step up and put their technology to the test.
Perhaps the best example you can consider is the Tesla Powerwall. With one of the safest and fastest charging battery systems, it has set the benchmark for modern solar energy-based power backup solutions. Still, some people wonder whether it can deliver all that it promises for a substantial period. Well, if you want to know the actual Tesla Powerwall lifespan: how long will the Tesla Powerwall last, then this is just the piece for you.
How Does Tesla Powerwall Work?
The basic structure of the Tesla Powerwall is quite simple. It connects the solar panels on an exposed part of the house to a hybrid inverter system. That system can supply energy to the appliances around the house or a lithium-ion battery for emergency use.
The hybrid structure minimizes the dependency on the local power grid. If it’s active, you can reduce your reliance during the daytime. As the night falls, the system seamlessly switches to draw more power from the grid. The system also contains a 13.5 kWh battery with an inverter that supplies emergency power if the grid disconnect.
An intuitive feature that Tesla supplies with each system are the ability to monitor the electrical status of your home through an app. Whether you have an Android or Apple smartphone, you can observe precise power statistics of your home, including peak power hours, battery charge left, and savings on your electricity bill.
As of now, Tesla offers two variants – Powerwall and Powerwall+. Both have the same energy capacity, although the latter is much more efficient with supply and can handle higher loads.
See more this video: How a Tesla gateway works with the powerwall
How Much Energy Can The Tesla Powerwall Supply?
If you go for the standard Tesla Powerwall option, you can obtain 5.8 kVA on-grid power, which is enough to power two high-density appliances for several hours. In case you upgrade to Powerwall+, you get the option of a 7.6 kVA continuous on-grid supply. That is the standard for most suburban homes and can easily power most devices without substantial thermal loss.
In the case of backup power, you can expect a peak output of 22 kW and a continuous output of 9.6 kW from the Powerwall+. With Powerwall, those figures get reduced to 10 kW and 7 kW, respectively.
Tesla claims that its battery inverter system is 97% efficient. That is not hyperbole, as independent tests in varying conditions have achieved an average efficiency of 94%. It can function adequately within a temperature range of -20°C (-4°F) to 50°C (122°F). Since the system is designed for outdoor installation, the company ensures that all the equipment is water and dust-resistant.
Benefits of Installing the Tesla Powerwall
The Tesla Powerwall delivers you several benefits over a regular solar charging inverter.
- Fast charging through a closed, insulated circuit with minimal thermal runoff
- Convenient real-time monitoring through the Tesla smartphone app
- Uninterrupted supply with no need for manual switchover
- Quick installation and repairs with no modifications to your home’s structure or mains supply
How Long Will The Tesla Powerwall Last?
Tesla provides a 10-year warranty for all Powerwall systems you purchase through its website. However, they also claim that you won’t need to replace the batteries or other major components until 20 years past the date of installation. That is, provided you don’t drain the battery to a low charging state too often.
See full this video: What is the expected lifespan of a Tesla Powerwall?
Tips to Improve Tesla Powerwall Lifespan
While the build quality is immaculate, you can extend the Powerwalls lifespan by following a few simple yet effective tips:
- Don’t drain the battery power too low or too frequently.
- Keep the Powerwall system clean. Use specialized cleaning supplies instead of regular basic solutions.
- Optimize the settings to put less stress on the solar panels. Limiting their use can help you replace them less frequently.
- Check the cable connections regularly. Any damaged or loose cables can be a recipe for disaster.
Is the Tesla Powerwall Worth the Price?
The Tesla Powerwall+ can set you back $11,500, including installation charges. The standard Powerwall system costs just under $10,000. While the company claims costs can drop by 50% within the next three years, that’s still a steep price compared to other solar energy connections. Still, considering how much life you obtain from it, it is well worth it. Moreover, if you maintain the system appropriately, you can save thousands more on repairs.
Related Questions
How Long Will a Fully Charged Powerwall Last?
It depends on how much load you expose it to. In a successive stage, as per the rated supply, a fully charged Tesla Powerwall can last anywhere between 12 to 15 hours.
Do Solar Panels Make the House Hotter?
No. Contrary to popular belief, solar panels reduce the incoming heat from the sun as they convert it to electricity. With a robust system, you can decrease the sun’s heating effect by 38%.
Does Powerwall Work Without Internet?
Yes, your Tesla Powerwall can still function without the internet. However, you lose the ability to monitor the system through the Tesla mobile app and change the settings remotely.
Can the Tesla Powerwall Run an Air Conditioner?
Yes. You can use the Tesla Powerwall to run an air conditioner without drawing any power from the grid. The battery can supply continuous power for up to two units for several hours, provided that it was charged adequately beforehand.
Summary
The Tesla Powerwall is an exemplary sample of using alternative energy for domestic usage. It can prove costly for some, but the company is working to reduce it with every new iteration. It would be nice to see other manufacturers develop their own takes on tidal and wind energy. We hope this guide granted you new insights into the Tesla Powerwall lifespan: how long will the Tesla Powerwall last?
References
