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Technical

Powervault is very simple to use, install and understand; you can find out why here

Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a selection of frequently asked questions about Powervault. If you do not find an answer to a question you have then please get in contact with us directly.

Batteries

  • Is the Powervault able to do more than one full charge and discharge cycle per day?  

    Yes, for example, if you have a time of use tariff you can benefit from storing solar and low cost energy from the grid on a daily basis. If you’re energy needs are sufficient you  can get more than one full cycle out of the Powervault by storing cheap off peak energy overnight to use in the morning before storing free excess solar generation during the day and using it in the evening when you need it.

     

    Updated: 21 March 2023

  • What type of battery technology is used inside the Powervault?

    The latest Powervault models use Lithium-ion (LFP) battery technology to store energy in the home. Over our near 10 year history we have made products using a wide range of different battery chemistries from lead-acid to recycled car batteries. The Powervault P4 and PVCompact models use high-performance Lithium-ion (Li-LFP) cells, which offer a long-life and come with a 10-year warranty.

    Updated: 21 March 2023

Cost Saving

  • Will installing a Powervault affect my feed-in tariff payments?

    No, Powervault will not have any effect on your feed-in tariff; you will continue to receive in full.

    Updated: 21 March 2023

  • How much can Powervault save me per year?

    Energy savings will vary for each household depending on the size of your solar array, energy consumption profile and energy tariff. However, by installing a Powervault you can expect to save up to 65%* on your electricity bill. You can save up to 50% by storing excess solar from their solar panels and a further 15% when combined with off-peak tariff charging.

    * Savings are based on a 4kWh Powervault 3 unit installed in a property with a 3.68kWp (~12 panels) solar photovoltaic system with average UK solar generation (assuming load factor of 11% used by BEIS). Assumes electricity consumption of 3,100 kWh per annum (Ofgem-average) and standard variable E7 tariff, which is subject to annual increases of 5% (representing average historic increase).

    Updated: 21 March 2023

General

  • How will I be able to monitor my Powervault?

    Powervault owners are able to log-in to our online customer portal where they can monitor performance, set schedules, and view live data, daily energy use and energy generation charts. The online portal tracks the home’s electricity consumption and records home electricity demand, battery storage, discharge and export over time.

    Updated: 21 March 2023

  • Can I run my kettle or iron from a Powervault?

    Powervault batteries are designed to supply energy to the home when you need it to minimise your total electrical requirements from the grid and save you money.

     

    Updated: 21 March 2023

  • How do I reset my Powervault if I need to?

    You can reset your Powervault by turning the red rotatory isolator switch next (or on) the unit 90 degrees, leaving it for 30 seconds, and turning it back again (vertical is on, horizontal is off). This is turning the battery off and on again.

    Updated: 21 March 2023

  • Can Powervault store low-cost electricity from the grid?

    Yes, Powervault is compatible with all time-of-use tariffs such as standard Economy 7, Octopus Energy Go or Intelligent, and Green Energy UK TIDE for example. Powervault is also compatible with dynamic time of use tariffs like the Octopus Energy Agile tariff.

    Your Powervault can be programmed to charge from the grid during off-peak times to store low-cost electricity from the grid. This functionality is provided via Powervault’s online customer portal where it is possible to set a unique schedule for your battery.

    We also offer access to SmartSTOR, our AI scheduling system, as standard. SmartSTOR uses weather forecasting data, energy consumption and generation predictions, and tariff pricing to optimise your battery to maximise the savings you can make.

    Updated: 21 March 2023

Installation

  • How long does Powervault take to install?

    A standard Powervault installation usually takes 4 hours and is always done by one of our own engineers or Approved Installers. It will be necessary to turn the power off in the house for a few minutes during the installation.

    Updated: 21 March 2023

  • Where should Powervault be installed in my home?

    The Powervault should be installed in a ventilated area with nothing that will restrict airflow around the unit. This is to ensure optimal temperature and prevent overheating. Typically, they are installed in utility rooms, hallways and garages. We do not install Powervault’s in loft spaces for practical and safety reasons.

    Updated: 21 March 2023

  • Can I move my Powervault to a different location?

    Once a Powervault has been installed, we recommend keeping it in its original location. If you do need to move it to another location, please contact us. Only an Approved Installer can move a Powervault, otherwise you risk invalidating the warranty.

    Updated: 21 March 2023

  • Will Powervault be compatible with my solar PV system and inverter?  

    Yes, Powervault is installed as an AC coupled system directly into your electrical supply on your consumer unit (fuse box) as opposed to a DC coupled system where the battery is connected to your PV panels directly.

    Connecting your Powervault system on the AC side is very simple and means that it is compatible with all solar inverters and PV systems and is very easy to retro-fit to your existing solar supply or install with an additional or new PV system.

    Powervault is also compatible with grid connected wind turbines and other forms of renewable energy generators.

    Updated: 21 March 2023

Technical

  • What should I do if the Powervault goes offline?

    You can get in touch with us by email or on the phone if you need some technical support; we’d be delighted to hear from you and help to resolve the issue over the phone if we can. Alternatively, there is a trouble shooting guide available through the Powervault portal that you could follow should you wish.

    Updated: 21 March 2023

  • What is the maximum rate of charge for the Powervault? 

    The rate of charge is dependant on the model and capacity of the Powervault – please refer to the technical specifications for the max continuous power in for this information.

    Updated: 21 March 2023

  • What happens to Powervault in a Powercut?

    The new Powervault P4 and PVCompact models come with an option to purchase emergency power sockets. During a powercut these sockets will remain live as long as there is energy stored in the Powervault, you can use them to power essentials like your mobile phone – if you need to remain connected – or kettle, heater and other small appliances.

    Updated: 21 March 2023