Backup Time Formula:
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The Lithium Battery Backup Calculator estimates how long a lithium battery bank can power a load in a solar system. It considers battery capacity, voltage, efficiency, and power consumption to determine runtime.
The calculator uses the following formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula converts battery capacity to watt-hours (Ah × V), applies efficiency, then divides by load to get runtime in hours.
Details: Accurate backup time estimation helps in sizing battery banks for solar systems, ensuring sufficient power during cloudy days or nighttime.
Tips: Enter battery capacity in Ah, voltage in V, efficiency (0.85 typical), and load in watts. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: Why use efficiency factor?
A: Efficiency accounts for energy losses in conversion, wiring, and battery chemistry (typically 85-95% for lithium batteries).
Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides theoretical maximum. Real-world factors like temperature, battery age, and discharge rate affect actual runtime.
Q3: Does this work for lead-acid batteries?
A: Yes, but use lower efficiency (0.7-0.85) and account for 50% depth of discharge limitation.
Q4: What if my load varies?
A: Use average or highest expected load. For variable loads, calculate for each power level separately.
Q5: How to increase backup time?
A: Increase battery capacity, reduce load, or improve system efficiency through better components.