In the fast-changing world of technology, home batteries have become a hot topic of discussion; this is especially true for homeowners striving for a sustainable and energy-independent household. The home battery allows excess energy from solar panels to be stored; it can then be used at times when the sun is not shining. This gives households more control over their energy consumption and at the same time allows them to reduce their carbon footprint.
While the technology seems like a promising step towards a greener future, it is essential to take (fire) safety around home batteries seriously. In this blog, we discuss not only the benefits of home batteries , but also how to integrate them safely and efficiently into your household.
Home energy storage systems are an integral part of the shift to renewable energy sources. Essentially, the home battery stores excess energy produced by solar panels during the day.
This stored energy comes in handy when the sun goes down; it removes households’ dependence on the traditional electricity grid. Besides energy independence, this also means savings on energy bills and reduced environmental impact.
While home energy storage systems are a promising technology, it is important to understand that they are not without risk. These batteries are often made of lithium-ion technology; this technology is known for its efficiency in energy storage, but also for its possible ‘dangerous’ properties.
Overheating, short circuits, manufacturing defects or even mechanical damage can lead to a ‘thermal runaway’. This process occurs when the temperature inside the battery cell has exceeded a certain point; that is, the heat generated exceeds the heat dissipated
In practice, this means nothing more than that the battery may catch fire. In a domestic environment, such a fire can spread rapidly, highlighting the need for precautions.
To minimise the earlier-mentioned fire risk, several steps can be taken to significantly reduce the risk of fire in home batteries:
Always have home batteries installed by a qualified installer. These professionals are aware of all applicable standards and regulations. They will also ensure that the installation is safe and efficient.
Place the energy storage system in a well-ventilated, dry and cool place, preferably outside the house. Avoid installation near combustible materials to further reduce the risk.
Consider using fire-resistant materials or a fire separation system around the home battery. This can prevent any fire from spreading quickly; this can save you valuable time in getting the situation under control.
Make sure you have a functioning cooling system to prevent overheating. Maintaining a safe temperature range is vital to minimise the risk of fire. Most home batteries and inverters use natural cooling. However, if the temperature becomes too high, the Battery Management System (BMS) will reduce the power output. In the residential market, a cooling system will rarely be present. One important way to prevent heat generation is to design the system so that it never runs at full capacity, but perhaps only at 50%. This not only benefits the lifespan, but also significantly improves safety.
Regular maintenance and inspection of the energy storage system are crucial. Any sign of wear or damage should be addressed immediately to avoid potential problems. The downside, however, is that these systems are often maintenance-free. This means you are completely dependent on the Battery Management System (BMS), especially in the case of lithium batteries. This makes it virtually impossible to perform maintenance on a residential ESS system.
Implementing a home battery in your household offers many benefits, ranging from energy independence to lower energy costs. However, it is vital to integrate this technology in a safe and responsible manner.
With expert installation, careful site selection, proper temperature control, regular maintenance and fire safety awareness, you can enjoy all the benefits of a home energy storage system with peace of mind. This way, you not only contribute to a greener future, but also take into account a safe living environment for you and your fellow residents . Safety is paramount in the energy revolution of the 21st century; it is up to all of us to make this revolution not only sustainable, but also safe for everyone.
Would you like more information on the safety of energy storage systems, or help choosing the right storage system for your application? Our experts are ready and happy to help. Fill in your details in the contact form below and we will contact you soon.
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