Power cut at the worst possible moment? A home battery backup can keep essentials running when the grid lets you down. From portable power stations for fridges, lights and devices to larger home battery systems, explore practical options to stay powered and find the right backup for your home.
How Much Battery Do You Need For A Blackout?
Start by deciding which appliances actually need power. Battery capacity is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), while power output determines how many appliances you can run at once.
Keeping The Fridge And Lights On
For basic battery backup for home use, focus on essentials such as your fridge, lights, Wi-Fi router and phone chargers. A smaller home battery can keep these lower-power devices going much longer than if you also run heating, cooling or cooking appliances.

Running Bigger Appliances
Air conditioners, kettles, microwaves and other high-powered appliances need more output. Check both the battery capacity and maximum power rating before choosing.
If you want to run most of your home during a blackout, you may need a larger home energy storage system rather than a portable home battery.

Charging Your Home Battery
Most portable batteries can be charged from a standard power point, while compatible models can also use solar panels. Installed systems can store excess solar energy generated by your home.
Solar Panels
Solar battery storage can help recharge your battery using energy generated during the day. This is particularly useful during longer outages, provided your system is designed to operate when the grid is down.
Expanding Capacity Later
Not sure how much capacity you need yet? Some battery systems support additional battery modules, allowing you to expand your home battery storage later rather than buying the largest system from day one.
Portable Battery Or Installed System?
The right battery for home backup depends on whether you value flexibility or whole-home integration.
What A Portable Battery Can Do
A portable home battery is ideal for directly powering selected appliances and electronics. You can move it where needed, recharge it in several ways and take it camping or travelling when it isn't being used at home.
It's a practical option if you mainly want backup for essentials rather than every circuit in the house.
When To Call An Electrician
If you want a battery connected directly to your switchboard or powering fixed household circuits, use a suitably qualified installer. Installed batteries also need to be correctly configured if you want them to provide power during a blackout.
FAQs
People often ask us these questions when talking about home battery backup.
Is home battery storage worth it?
It can be, particularly if you have solar, frequent outages or want greater energy independence.
How long will a 10kWh battery last?
Around 10 hours at a constant 1kW load, before allowing for losses and battery reserves.
How big of a battery bank do you need to run a house?
It depends on your daily energy use and which appliances you want to run during an outage.
How much should a 10kWh battery cost?
Installed prices vary with brand, installation and rebates. A portable power station backs up your essentials without an installer.