Whether you live in an area with frequent power outages or simply want to obtain more peace of mind and always have power available, the concept of backup power may be one you're considering. Two options here that are often compared with one another are solar power battery backups and home generators.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're proud to assist not only with a huge range of solar panel products and solar power installations for clients across Utah and Idaho, but also with home battery installations and battery backup solutions for any solar setup. Here are some basics on how solar home batteries and home generators work, plus some areas to compare them in while determining which is best for your needs.

How Each Item Works

For those just learning about these two backup power options, here's a basic primer on how each one works:

• Solar power battery backup: A solar power system that includes a battery backup will store excess energy generated by the sun throughout the day. This energy can then be used during periods of low sunlight or at night when the panels are not producing any electricity. These batteries work in conjunction with your solar panels to provide continuous power to your home, making them an excellent choice for people who want to reduce their reliance on traditional grid electricity and have more control over their own energy usage.
• Home generator: A home generator uses an internal combustion engine to generate electricity. Your home's electrical system is connected to the generator, which is typically powered by natural gas or propane. When there is a power outage, the generator will automatically turn on and begin supplying your home with electricity. Generators come in different sizes and can power anything from just a few essential appliances to an entire home.

When deciding between solar power battery backups and home generators, there are several key factors to consider. Our next several sections will dig into these.

Safety

Safety is naturally very important to homeowners, and this is one area where solar home batteries hold a clear advantage over home generators. A solar battery backup system is essentially just an energy storage device, so there are no moving parts or potential fire hazards associated with it. In contrast, generators have engines that require fuel and generate heat, making them more prone to accidents if not properly maintained.

Reliability

One area where both solar home batteries and generators can be reliable is in providing backup power during a blackout or natural disaster. However, solar batteries have an inherent advantage here because they can provide continuous power as long as the sun is shining. In contrast, home generators may run out of fuel if there are widespread power outages or fuel shortages.

However, most consider these items to be relatively equal in terms of reliability. The key is to make sure you have enough stored energy or fuel to last for the duration of a power outage.

Cost

Cost is often a major consideration for homeowners when it comes to backup power options. In general, solar battery backups can be more expensive upfront because they require an initial investment in both the solar panels and the battery system. However, once installed, there are minimal ongoing costs associated with solar batteries.

On the other hand, home generators may not require as large of an initial investment, but their ongoing maintenance and fuel costs can add up over time.

Environmental Impact

Another factor that many homeowners consider when selecting a backup power source is its impact on the environment. In this area, solar power battery backups are the clear winner. They use renewable energy from the sun and have no harmful emissions or pollution associated with them.

In contrast, home generators rely on fossil fuels and emit greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. While some generators can be powered by natural gas or propane, these still have environmental impacts during extraction and transportation.

Noise

For those who live in quiet neighborhoods or are sensitive to noise, the level of sound emitted by a backup power source may also be a consideration. Solar battery backups produce no noise at all since they have no moving parts.

Home generators, on the other hand, generate noise from their engines and exhaust systems. The amount of noise produced can vary depending on the type and size of the generator, but it may be a factor to consider for those concerned about noise pollution.

Ultimately, the best option for backup power will depend on your specific needs and priorities. If safety and environmental impact are top concerns, solar battery backups may be the better choice. However, if upfront cost is a major factor, home generators could be the way to go.

We recommend discussing your options with a professional at Intermountain Wind & Solar who can provide personalized advice based on your home's energy usage and location. Contact us today for these or other solar power services in Utah and Idaho!