How Backup Systems Handle Grid Failures
How Backup Systems Handle Grid Failures
Power outages can hit without warning, whether it’s from storms, equipment failure, or a strained grid. But with a well-designed backup system, your lights stay on and your home or business keeps running.
At BC Solar, we build systems in Columbus, Ohio, that don’t just generate solar power; they protect your property from grid failures. Here’s how.
What Is a Solar Backup System?
A backup system is typically a solar-plus-battery setup that stores excess energy during the day and keeps your home or business powered when the grid goes down. The main components:
Solar panels to generate electricity
Battery bank to store energy
An inverter to convert DC solar power to usable AC
Automatic transfer switch to seamlessly switch to backup power
At BC Solar, we install hybrid systems that work with or without the grid, so your fridge, Wi-Fi, lights, and even well pumps keep running.
How Backup Works During a Grid Outage
When the power goes out, here’s what happens behind the scenes:
Grid failure detected – Your inverter senses the outage instantly.
Automatic switchover – Power supply is rerouted from the grid to your battery bank in a fraction of a second.
Essential loads are prioritized – You decide what gets backed up: lights, HVAC, medical equipment, etc.
Solar keeps charging – During daylight, your panels continue to charge the batteries, extending backup duration.
Our systems often use Sol-Ark inverters, which respond fast and integrate cleanly with a variety of batteries. We’re also battery agnostic; whether you want Enphase, HomeGrid, or another system, we design around your needs.
Grid-Independent Peace of Mind
Customers like Megan C. have added extra battery capacity to their systems so they can ride through even longer outages. As Brian, BC Solar’s owner, says:
“That extra battery gives you breathing room. It’s there when the utility company drops the ball.”
This is more than energy savings. It’s about control. You don’t rely on AEP or the utility’s repair schedule. You’re prepared.
Backup Power for Businesses
Commercial clients also benefit from backup even without solar. We offer demand-limiting battery setups that:
Reduce peak demand charges (which can be 70% of your bill)
Provide critical load support during outages.
Integrate with or without solar panels.
In Ohio’s utility market, batteries can pay for themselves just by trimming those peak spikes.
FAQ
How long will my backup power last?
Depends on battery size and what you power. Most clients back up essentials and get 1–3 days of coverage, longer with solar recharge.
Can I add batteries to my existing solar system?
Yes, especially if your inverter is compatible. We evaluate and retrofit systems all the time.
Will my system turn on automatically when the grid fails?
Yes. Sol-Ark and similar hybrid inverters handle this with zero delay. You won’t even notice.
Do I need solar to have a backup battery?
No. We install battery-only systems for businesses and homeowners who want protection or demand-charge reduction.
Want a system that gives you control and peace of mind during blackouts?
Give us a call at (614) 442-9700 or visit bc. Solar.
