The Battery for Florida Homeowners: A Comprehensive Comparison

May 26, 2024

As Florida homeowners look to harness the sun’s power, choosing a home energy storage battery becomes pivotal. The correct battery ensures the continuous operation of appliances and the ability to start larger systems like air conditioning units. Today, we’re comparing three AC-coupled batteries that stand out in the market.

Franklin WH Battery: The Powerhouse of Safety and Efficiency

Battery Chemistry: The Franklin WH Battery is powered by Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry, celebrated for its safety and longevity. This choice of material significantly reduces the risk of thermal runaway, making it a safe bet for residential use.

Storage Capacity: With a 13.6kWh capacity, the Franklin WH Battery slightly surpasses Tesla’s offering, ensuring extra energy when needed.

Power: It shines with a peak power of 10kW, outperforming Tesla’s 7kW. Even a 4-ton AC system won’t challenge the Franklin battery.

Continuous Power: Although not explicitly specified, the high peak power implies robust continuous power capabilities, ensuring that your home runs smoothly without interruption.

Depth of Discharge (DoD): The Franklin WH Battery allows for 100% DoD, meaning you can fully utilize the battery’s capacity without holding back.

Roundtrip Efficiency: At 89% efficiency, it aligns with industry standards, ensuring that the energy stored is effectively used.

Stackability: One of the most impressive features is its ability to stack up to 15 units, providing unparalleled scalability for your growing energy needs.

Additional Features That Set Franklin Apart

  • Generator Compatibility: It can be charged with a standard gas generator, a unique feature that adds an extra layer of energy security.
  • Smart Management: An exclusive app that allows you to control high-energy appliances, optimizing energy usage.
  • EV Integration: Franklin is the only company that offers the option of using an electric vehicle as an auxiliary power source for your home.

Tesla Battery: The Popular Choice with Limitations

Battery Chemistry: Tesla employs lithium-ion technology, which is efficient but more prone to thermal runaway than LiFePO4.

Storage Capacity: Offers a close 13.5kWh capacity, just a notch below Franklin’s.

Power: The peak power of 7kW may limit the size of motors it can start, suggesting a 3-ton AC system might be the upper limit.

Depth of Discharge (DoD): Tesla’s battery allows for 96% DoD, leaving a small portion of the capacity untapped.

Roundtrip Efficiency: It boasts a high efficiency of 90%, marginally outperforming Franklin’s battery.

Stackability: The stacking limit of 10 units might be restrictive for some homeowners’ future expansion plans.

Enphase Battery: Compact and Efficient but Less Powerful

Battery Chemistry: Enphase also opts for LiFePO4, mirroring Franklin’s safety focus.

Storage Capacity: The Encharge 10 model offers 10.08kWh, generally lower than its competitors.

Power: It provides a disappointing maximum continuous power of 3.84kW, less than Franklin and Tesla, potentially limiting its utility in larger homes.

Depth of Discharge (DoD): Enphase offers 100% DoD like Franklin.

Roundtrip Efficiency: It is known for high efficiency, with the Encharge 10 boasting a 96% rate.

Stackability: While scalable, it typically doesn’t match Franklin’s 15-unit capability.

Conclusion: Franklin WH Battery Leads the Charge

The Franklin WH battery is a formidable contender in the final analysis. Its superior safety features, higher storage capacity, and greater peak power output make it a strong candidate for Florida homeowners. Stacking up to 15 units is a significant advantage for those looking to scale their energy storage. Coupled with unique features like generator charging compatibility, smart appliance management, and optional EV integration, the Franklin Whole Home battery presents a compelling value proposition.

As you navigate the solar energy landscape, remember that the best choice is one that aligns with your specific energy goals and household needs. The Franklin WH battery could be the key to unlocking your home’s energy potential.