Frequently Asked Questions

List of answers
What can a 5kWh battery power, and for how long?

The number of home appliances you can power with a 5kW solar system and battery in Zambia depends on factors like your appliances’ energy needs, the amount of sunlight your location receives, and your daily energy usage patterns.

In Zambia's sunny climate, an off-grid 5kW solar system can generally cover a household’s essential energy needs, including lighting, refrigeration, electronics, and small appliances. However, regular use of high-consumption appliances such as air conditioners may require a system with a larger capacity.

How do I determine if a 5kWh battery is the right capacity for my needs?

To determine if a 5kWh battery is the right capacity for your needs, consider your household’s daily energy usage and the types of appliances you plan to power. But as a rule of thumb, a 5kWh battery can generally support daily use of basic essentials such as lights, a refrigerator, small electronics, and some kitchen appliances. However, it depends on your usage patterns.

How long does it take to fully charge the BYD Flex Lite or LV5.0 battery?

The time required to fully charge a BYD Flex Lite or LV5.0-battery depends on your power source and charging setup. If you’re using solar panels, charging time will vary based on the number of panels and the intensity of sunlight. For instance, a typical 2kW solar array in Zambia’s sunny conditions could fully charge the battery in 3–4 hours of peak sunlight, more solar panels will decrease this time.

If you’re charging from the grid, the BYD-batteries can generally reach full charge in about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your inverter’s output. For optimal results, it’s essential to ensure compatibility between your battery, inverter, and charging source to achieve efficient charging times.

What is the lifespan of a BYD battery?

BYD batteries come with either a 7 or 10 years warranty, depending on the model. But they are expected to have a life span exceeding the warranty time. 

One key advantage of a warranty from a reputable company like BYD is the assurance that your investment is protected over the long term. Unlike lesser-known or smaller brands, where there’s a risk the company might not be around in a few years to honor the warranty, BYD’s global presence and established reputation provide confidence that any issues will be supported. This reliability offers peace of mind that your battery will be serviced or replaced as needed, ensuring you receive full value throughout its lifespan.

Are the BYD batteries compatible with all inverters?

The BYD batteries are compatible with most well-known inverters, but not all. It’s essential to check compatibility with your specific inverter model to ensure efficient performance and a safe setup. BYD provides a list of compatible inverters, typically including popular brands such as SMA, Victron, Deye, Solis and Voltronic, among others. Working with a qualified installer can help verify that your inverter and BYD battery are a suitable match, ensuring optimal efficiency and system longevity.

How safe are the BYD batteries, and what safety features do they have?

BYDs Blade Battery-technology is considered among the safest on the market. They have all undergone the most rigorous safety testing and exceeds the requirements of the Nail Penetration Test, the most rigorous way to test battery thermal runaway.Additionally, BYD batteries are certified to meet international safety standards, providing peace of mind for reliable and secure energy storage in your home or business.

What kind of warranty and support do you offer for the BYD batteries?

BYD batteries come with either a 7 or 10 years warranty, depending on the model. But they are expected to have a life span exceeding the warranty time. BYD Zambia provides a warranty based on the warranty terms specified by BYD, which generally covers: 1) Material and manufacturing defects. 2) Performance issues under normal, recommended usage.

Warranty duration is as specified in the BYD product documentation provided at the time of purchase. 

If you experience any issues with a BYD battery purchased from us, please report any defects or issues promptly and we will look into as soon as possible. 

One key advantage of a warranty from a reputable company like BYD is the assurance that your investment is protected over the long term. Unlike lesser-known or smaller brands, where there’s a risk the company might not be around in a few years to honor the warranty, BYD’s global presence and established reputation provide confidence that any issues will be supported. This reliability offers peace of mind that your battery will be serviced or replaced as needed, ensuring you receive full value throughout its lifespan.

How much space does the BYD batteries require, and what are the installation requirements?

Please see the fact sheet for the exact dimensions of the battery model you are considering. On our product site you will also find guidance on installation.   

With a BYD battery, can I expand my system if my energy needs increase in the future?

Yes, you can expand your setup if your energy needs increase in the future. All BYD battery models are modular, meaning you can add more battery units to increase storage capacity as needed. This flexibility makes it easy to scale up your energy system over time, whether you want to support additional appliances, handle higher energy demands, or store more solar energy for backup. Be sure to consult with a qualified installer to ensure compatibility and proper setup for your expanded system.

Is investing in a solar system with a battery a worthwhile investment?@

Investing in a solar system with a battery solution in Zambia is indeed a worthwhile investment for several reasons. Given the country’s abundant sunlight, a solar system can significantly reduce or even eliminate your reliance on the grid, especially during frequent power outages. By incorporating a battery, you can store excess energy generated during the day for use at night or during cloudy periods, ensuring a reliable power supply.

Moreover, with electricity costs projected to go up significantly and the increasing demand for energy, having a solar and battery system can lead to substantial long-term savings on your energy bills. It also contributes to energy independence and sustainability, reducing your carbon footprint and supporting Zambia’s goals for renewable energy. Overall, this investment not only enhances your energy security but also aligns with a growing trend toward sustainable living in the region.