Tesla Powerwall At A Glance

Tesla Powerwall is a battery system that allows users to store sunlight-generated electricity for future use. This battery system is very beneficial during nights, outages, and low sunlight days. Tesla Powerwall was introduced in 2015 and has become one of the best solar battery systems for residents.

Powerwalls can provide electricity for a day or a few days during outages and can help reduce utility bills. In this Tesla Powerwall review, we will explain its features, cost, pros, and cons, so that you can make a more informed decision before purchasing any solar battery.

What is the Difference between Tesla Powerwall and Powerwall +?

Currently, Tesla solar roof has two different versions of Powerwall, Powerwall 2 and Powerwall+. Both have the same basics but there are some major differences in the features. Tesla Powerwall + comes with an inverter that converts DC into AC to be used for powering the house so it is a complete unit of sustainable energy.

The Powerwall + also has twice the backup power as compared to the Powerwall 2 and is certainly more powerful. Although the Tesla Powerwall capacity is the same for both models.  Below are the detailed specs of both Powerwall versions.

These specifications show that Powerwall Plus is certainly an improvement over Powerwall 2. However, Tesla is also working on Powerwall 3 which will be available for consumers in 2024. We are hoping for some more advanced specifications in the third version of Powerwall.

How Does Powerwall Work?

Tesla Powerwall has a lithium-ion battery that stores the energy produced by the sun. This battery charges and stores the electricity for later use and acts as a power source. Powrwall also has an inverter that turns the stored direct current into an alternating current.

The power wall ensures a smooth flow of electricity and fulfills the energy needs.

The Powerwall also has a rectifier. This rectifier is important for strong energy because it is responsible for converting AC back into DC whether it comes from a solar panel or the grid. This DC is then stored in the lithium-ion battery for later use.

How Much Does Tesla Powerwall Cost?

Tesla Powerwall price differs on condition. A single Powerwall battery costs around $11500 with a discount but it also depends on where you live, and how many batteries you require. A single battery is enough to power a resident with Tesla solar panels or solar roofs.

However, if your establishment is big and you need more batteries, the cost of a single battery will be less in a package. For example, if a Tesla Powerwall costs $11,500 and you buy a bundle of 5 batteries, the cost will be reduced to $8100 approximately.

You can order tesla solar panel cost online from the Tesla website.

While ordering the battery, you will need to enter your address, current bill,  and roof square footage to provide recommendations for solar panels, solar roofs, and Powerwall batteries for your resident.

Pros and Cons of Tesla Powerwall

Although Tesla Powerwall is very versatile and can be beneficial in the long term as a reliable source of solar energy, still it has some disadvantages. Below are the pros and cons of the system that you must consider before ordering a Powerwall.

Pros

Installation: You can install a Powerwall anywhere in your house either outdoors or indoors because it is built to deliver flexibility. Most of the other solar batteries do not have this advantage.

Improved efficiency: This is the most useful advantage of the battery as it can store a sufficient amount of electricity so it feels like increased solar efficiency. You can use the stored power whenever you need such as at night, or during overcast days. Moreover, Tesla guarantees 70% storage capacity even at the end of 10 years.

Warranty: The Powerwall offers a 10-year warranty which is a long time considering what is available in the market. However, if you use the Powerwall with care, it can work for a few more years. Tesla also guarantees that they will replace the battery or repair it in case of any damage or even refund the cost if there are any defects or the energy capacity goes below 70% of 13.5 kWh.

Tesla App: The battery is compatible with the Tesla app so you can take control of the system and monitor the daily performance.

Tax Credit: Although solar installation is very expensive if you order a Tesla solar panel or roof with the battery, a tax credit can reduce the charges to 30%.

Cons

High Investment: The solar batteries come with Tesla solar panels or a Tesla roof. Previously, they could be purchased separately but now they are an addition to Tesla’s solar systems. Therefore, it has become a major investment.

Capacity Variations: A solar battery is not always reliable because sometimes it can not provide power backup after an overcast day. Therefore, using it in more sunny regions is more beneficial.

Multiple batteries: if you have a big house, one Tesla battery will not be enough. This is a drawback because more batteries cost more money.

One Size: The batteries only come in one size so you have to dedicate a good space to install these batteries. Moreover, only Tesla certified installer can install the battery.

Tesla Powerwall Availability and Installation Process

Tesla Powerwall needs certified installers. These days, almost every state of America has a Tesla Powerwall installer except Alaska. You can find the state availability on Tesla’s website by entering your address and zip code.

Once you find an installer, they can do a site assessment to see the number of batteries and systems your place needs. You can also order battries from the website or your installer can do it for you. The installer will install the system and test the system. Tesla will also monitor the system remotely along with test and commission.

Tesla Powerwall Reviews

Most of the Tesla solar panel reviews we explored on the internet were positive. The customer was satisfied with the battries as they reduced their bills. People were also quite pleased with the combination of the solar app with the system and how it helps them to track the system.

The only negative reviews were about Tesla’s customer service and lack of communication. Tesla must work on these issues for better customer engagement and resolution of queries.

Final Analysis:

Having a Tesla Powerwall battery adds to the overall experience of having a solar energy system. It not only provides a good backup but also reduces the bills. The only deal breaker can be the need of multiple battries will can increase the cost. You can also see other options for solar battries such as Enphase IQ, or SonnenCore before choosing the one for your home.

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