Battery Banks and Backup Power

Battery backup systems range from pocket sized power banks to whole home battery installations. Each tier serves different needs in emergency preparedness. Understanding the options helps you build layered backup power that matches your priorities and budget.

The key advantage of battery backup over generators is immediate, silent, indoor safe operation. When power fails, battery systems provide instant power without startup delays, noise, or ventilation concerns. The tradeoff is limited capacity that eventually needs recharging.

This guide covers battery backup options from smallest to largest, helping you understand where each fits in a comprehensive emergency power plan.

Power Banks (5,000 to 30,000mAh)

Compact, portable batteries for charging phones and small devices. Essential for every emergency kit and daily carry.

Capacity Understanding

Power banks are rated in milliamp hours (mAh). A typical smartphone has a 3,000 to 5,000mAh battery. A 10,000mAh power bank provides roughly 2 to 3 full phone charges (accounting for conversion losses).

Features to Consider

USB-C with Power Delivery (PD) enables faster charging and can charge tablets and some laptops. Multiple ports allow charging several devices. Built in cables add convenience. Some include flashlights or solar panels.

Recommended Strategy

Keep one power bank in your daily carry bag, one in your car, and several in your home emergency kit. Charge them regularly. Having multiple smaller units provides redundancy and flexibility.

UPS Systems (Uninterruptible Power Supply)

UPS units provide instant backup power for connected devices when grid power fails. Originally designed for computers, they serve many emergency preparedness roles.

How UPS Works

Devices plug into the UPS, which plugs into the wall. The UPS battery charges continuously. When power fails, connected devices switch to battery power instantly, without the brief interruption that would otherwise occur.

UPS Applications

Protecting computers and networking equipment. Powering medical devices like CPAP machines. Running essential communications equipment. Keeping security systems operational during brief outages.

Runtime Considerations

Most consumer UPS units provide 10 to 30 minutes of runtime under full load. This handles brief outages and provides time to safely shut down equipment or switch to alternative power. Larger UPS units with extended battery packs offer longer runtime.

Sine Wave Types

Pure sine wave UPS units are safe for all electronics. Simulated or modified sine wave units work for most devices but may damage sensitive equipment. Check your device requirements.

Portable Power Stations

Larger battery units covered in detail in our dedicated guide. These bridge the gap between small power banks and whole home systems.

Key points: Capacities from 200Wh to 3000Wh+. Can run small appliances, medical equipment, and charge many devices. Safe for indoor use. Rechargeable from wall, car, or solar panels.

See our Portable Power Stations Guide for comprehensive coverage.

Whole Home Battery Systems

Permanently installed battery systems that can power entire homes or selected circuits during outages. Examples include Tesla Powerwall, Enphase, and LG Chem systems.

Capacity and Integration

Whole home batteries typically range from 10kWh to 20kWh+ per unit. Multiple units can be combined for greater capacity. They integrate with home electrical panels and often pair with solar installations.

Automatic Operation

When grid power fails, whole home systems switch automatically, often in milliseconds. This provides seamless backup without manual intervention, similar to a standby generator but silent and maintenance free.

Cost Considerations

Whole home systems represent significant investment: $10,000 to $20,000+ installed. However, they may qualify for tax incentives when paired with solar. Long term value includes grid independence, time of use electricity savings, and reliable backup.

Professional Installation

These systems require professional installation including electrical panel work, permitting, and utility coordination. Not a DIY project.

Building a Layered Battery Strategy

Effective emergency power combines multiple battery tiers:

Layer 1: Personal power banks. Always charged, always available. Cover communication needs first.

Layer 2: UPS for critical devices. Protect computers, modems/routers, and medical equipment from brief outages.

Layer 3: Portable power station. Handle extended outages, run small appliances, provide flexible power distribution.

Layer 4 (optional): Whole home system. Seamless whole house backup for those with budget and need.

Each layer serves different scenarios and provides redundancy if one system fails or depletes.

Battery Maintenance

Keep Batteries Charged

Store lithium batteries at 50 to 80 percent charge for long periods. Fully depleted batteries degrade faster. Top off periodically.

Temperature Considerations

Avoid storing batteries in extreme heat (above 95°F) or cold (below 32°F). Room temperature storage extends lifespan.

Cycle Periodically

Use and recharge batteries periodically even when not needed. This maintains battery health and verifies functionality.

Quick Reference Checklist

• Stock power banks for all family members
• Place UPS on computers and essential devices
• Consider portable power station for extended backup
• Keep all batteries charged (check monthly)
• Store batteries at moderate temperatures
• Know capacity and runtime of each system
• Test systems periodically
• Plan recharging strategy (solar, car, generator)