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Guide to Tesla Powerwall 3 for solar
High quality home batteries can help homeowners with solar panels reduce their energy bills, and the Tesla Powerwall 3 is among those installed by RACV Solar.
If you have rooftop solar, often the next step to consider is getting a solar battery for your home. A solar battery captures and stores unused energy generated by solar panels, which gives you the option to power your home at night, with the possibility of lower energy bills. Solar batteries can also provide backup power during outages and blackouts, or power an electric car.
As well as making electric vehicles (EVs) such as the Model 3 and Model Y, Tesla is also one of the key players in the burgeoning home solar battery market.
The battery can power an EV via a home-charging unit, or even trickle charging via a power point.
Tesla Powerwall batteries: what you need to know
The Tesla Powerwall 3 is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery designed to store excess solar energy generated by photovoltaic (PV) solar panels.
How does a Tesla Powerwall battery work?
RACV Solar offers installation of the Tesla Powerwall 3. It is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery designed to store excess solar energy generated by photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. Lithium-ion (or li-ion) batteries are lightweight and compact, can be efficiently charged and have long lifespans.
The Tesla Powerwall 3 was launched in Australia in August, and its main difference from the previous model, the Powerwall 2, is that it is an all-in-one (hybrid) system, including a solar inverter.
Solar battery size is measured in kilowatt-hour (kWh) units and the Powerwall 3 has an energy capacity of 13.5 kWh, allowing homeowners to customise their energy storage based on their energy needs and usage patterns.
The science behind the efficiency of the Tesla Powerwall 3 is based on its high energy density and low self-discharge rate. In most cases, the continuous power output for single phase will be 10kW with 5kW available to charge the battery if enough solar is available. The Tesla Powerwall 3 stores a significant amount of energy in a compact size, allowing for easy installation and space optimisation. Its low self-discharge rate ensures minimal energy loss over time, maximising the efficiency of the battery system.
Solar batteries allow you to store energy to power your home and EV.
Tesla Powerwall compliance and ratings with Australian standards
The Powerwall 3 is AS4777 compliant. This is the inverter requirement standard in Australia. It specifies the expected performance and behaviour of inverters at low voltages. This means that it meets the necessary safety and quality standards for use in Australia.
The Powerwall 3 is designed to withstand various environmental conditions. Its operational range spans from -20°C to 50°C, ensuring reliability in diverse climates. Ideally it is installed in a sheltered location, such as a garage, and out of direct sunlight.
RACV Solar is a certified Tesla Powerwall installation partner.
Tesla Powerwall 3 technical specifications
Energy capacity
One of the most important specifications to consider is the energy capacity, which refers to the amount of energy the battery can store. The Tesla Powerwall 3 offers an energy capacity of 13.5 kWh with 100 per cent depth of discharge and 90 per cent round-trip efficiency (the measurement of the amount of energy put into a system compared to the amount dispatched). That's a lot of storage in one battery, but it's possible to combine multiple Tesla Powerwall 3 batteries together in one system for more storage capacity. A home solar battery expert can give you advice on what's right for your situation.
Battery life
The Tesla Powerwall 3 requires minimal maintenance, with software updates and remote monitoring ensuring optimal performance over time.
Tesla's 10-year warranty applies to any Tesla Powerwall 3 that was purchased from a Tesla certified installer in Australia, such as RACV Solar.
Performance under different weather conditions
The Tesla Powerwall 3 is built to withstand various weather conditions, including extreme temperatures and humidity. Whether you live in a hot and sunny climate or experience colder temperatures, the Tesla battery is engineered to perform optimally, ensuring consistent energy storage and supply.
Backup power supply during outages and blackouts
One of the main features of the Tesla Powerwall 3 is its ability to provide backup power during outages and blackouts. The BYD Battery, which RACV Solar also installs, has emergency blackout protection available as well. This means that even when there is a power disruption, homeowners with a Tesla Powerball 3 or BYD Battery can continue to power essential home appliances and stay connected, but it's advisable to reduce the use of energy-intensive appliances like air conditioners, vehicle charging, electric heaters and dishwashers. The key difference is that the Powerwall 3 provides only single phase backup, whereas BYD can do single phase or 3 phase backup.
The Tesla Powerwall 3 requires minimal maintenance, giving you peace of mind at home.
How much does a Tesla Powerwall 3 battery cost?
The cost of the Tesla Powerwall 3 home battery for solar can vary depending on various factors such as the size of your solar system and the capacity of the battery pack. It can also vary based on whether you’re getting it installed at the same time as solar panels or whether you’re adding it to an existing solar system. Higher demand and higher production costs have also influenced the price in recent years. It is recommended you consult a certified solar installer to get an accurate quote based on your specific requirements.
Tesla Powerwall 3 installation and maintenance
Installation time
The installation process of a Tesla Powerwall 3 usually takes a full day, so you’ll need to plan for your power to be out for around 4 to 6 hours. However, installation times can vary depending on the complexity of the job and the size of the battery pack. It is important to hire a certified Tesla installer who has experience in installing home solar batteries to ensure a smooth and efficient installation.
Maintenance costs
Tesla home batteries are known for their low maintenance requirements. The only ongoing requirements are to keep the unit connected to the internet and regularly clean it to keep it free and clear from debris, especially around the air intake and exhaust. To clean the Tesla Powerwall 3, use a soft, lint-free cloth. Do not use cleaning solvents or expose the battery to flammable or harsh chemicals.
Homeowners are advised to discuss Tesla home solar battery maintenance requirements and costs with a certified solar battery installer.
Tesla's 10-year warranty applies to any Tesla Powerwall that is purchased from a Tesla certified installer in Australia.
Tesla Powerwall 3 battery warranty and support
Duration and cover of warranty
Tesla's 10-year warranty for its Powerwall home batteries covers defects in materials and workmanship. This means that if your Tesla home battery experiences any issues due to manufacturing faults within this timeframe, Tesla will repair or replace it free of charge. It's important to note that the warranty is limited to the original purchaser and is not transferrable to subsequent owners.
Monitoring energy usage
The Tesla App allows you to easily monitor your household’s energy usage in real-time. The app’s detailed insights and visualisations track your solar energy production, battery storage levels, and overall energy consumption. This enables you to make informed decisions about your energy usage and behaviour and optimise your solar system accordingly.
Setting preferences
With the Tesla App, you have the flexibility to set your preferences and customise your energy management. You can adjust settings such as charging thresholds, backup power usage, and time-of-use preferences. These personalised settings ensure that your Tesla home batteries for solar are aligned with your specific energy needs and lifestyle.
Accessing support
If you require assistance or have questions about Tesla home batteries for solar, certified Tesla installers such as RACV Solar can assist. The Tesla App also provides access to support resources, and troubleshooting guides to frequently asked questions.
