Specs, sizing and storage: answers
Plain answers on what we'll sell, starting with the one that matters most.
None of our batteries or power stations connect to a plug-in solar kit A plug-in kit must never be used with a battery. Ours charge from a wall socket, a car or their own folding panel.
01
Standalone home batteries
What is a standalone home backup battery?
A battery with its own sockets that lives indoors. You charge it from a wall socket and plug appliances into it. It isn't wired into your home's circuits.
Can it store power from my plug-in solar kit?
No. A plug-in kit must never be used with a battery, and none of ours connect to one.
Usable or nominal capacity: which do I compare?
Usable. It's what you can actually draw. Nominal is everything the cells hold, and it's always a little higher.
How cold is too cold?
Most lithium batteries won't charge below 0°C. Keep yours indoors over winter rather than in a cold garage or shed.
02
Portable power stations
How long will a 1kWh station run a fridge-freezer?
About 21 hours on average figures, if its output and surge cover your fridge-freezer's start-up.
What can't a power station run?
Anything that needs more than its continuous output. Many 1kWh units can't run a 3kW kettle, and heaters and ovens use energy very quickly.
How do I charge it with no mains?
From the car's 12V socket while you drive, or from its own folding panel in the sun.
Will it run a gas boiler in a power cut?
Not as it is. Most gas boilers are wired into the house rather than plugged in. Ask an electrician what's possible, and don't rewire anything yourself.
03
Kit care and accessories
What can I add to a plug-in kit?
Things that sit around it: ballast for a ground frame and a cover for its lead. Nothing that changes the kit as registered.
Do you sell extension leads?
No. A plug-in kit plugs straight into a weatherproof outdoor socket with its own lead. No extension leads, reels or adaptors.
How much ballast does a ground kit need?
The maker asks for dense blocks of at least 18kg each: 2 where gusts can top 40mph, 5 above 60mph and 10 above 80mph.
Do you fit anything?
No, we don't offer fitting. An electrician can fit a weatherproof outdoor socket with RCD protection if you need one.
04
Ordering, courier and collection
When can I order?
Once we've chosen each model and checked its figures. Join the list on any product page and we'll email you.
Where do you deliver?
England, Scotland and Wales, by tracked courier, or a heavy-item service for big batteries.
Can I collect?
Yes, in Newcastle. The address comes with your order confirmation.
Can I change my mind?
Yes. You'll have 14 days to cancel after delivery, as the law allows for online orders.
Still working out the size?