What Size Battery Do You Need for a 5800W Inverter? A Practical Guide
Wondering how to power a 5800W inverter efficiently? This guide breaks down battery sizing calculations, real-world examples, and cost-saving strategies – perfect for solar enthusiasts, off-grid homeowners, and industrial users.
Understanding Battery Requirements for a 5800W Inverter
To calculate battery size, consider these three factors:
- Inverter efficiency (typically 85-95%)
- Desired runtime hours
- Battery voltage (12V/24V/48V systems)
The Basic Formula Simplified
Battery Capacity (Ah) = (Wattage × Runtime) ÷ (Voltage × Efficiency)
Example: Running a 5800W load for 2 hours on a 48V system with 90% efficiency:
(5800 × 2) ÷ (48 × 0.9) ≈ 268.5Ah
Real-World Scenarios & Battery Comparisons
| Usage Time | 48V System | 24V System |
|---|---|---|
| 1 hour | 134Ah | 268Ah |
| 4 hours | 536Ah | 1,072Ah |
Why Depth of Discharge Matters
Most batteries shouldn't be drained below 50% capacity. For our 268Ah example:
- Actual needed capacity: 268Ah ÷ 0.5 = 536Ah
- Recommended: 6× 100Ah lithium batteries (48V configuration)
Pro Tips for Battery Selection
- Lithium vs. Lead-Acid: Lithium batteries offer 3-5x longer lifespan
- Temperature considerations: Capacity drops 20% at -20°C
- Future expansion: Leave 15-20% extra capacity
Farmhouse Installation Case
A remote Canadian cabin uses:
- 5800W hybrid inverter
- 48V 600Ah lithium battery bank
- Supports 8-10 hours of mixed loads
FAQs: Battery Sizing Demystified
Q: Can I use car batteries?
A: Not recommended – deep cycle batteries handle repeated discharges better.
Q: How much does a proper system cost?
A: Typical 48V 600Ah lithium system: $8,000-$12,000 USD including installation.
"The right battery bank is like a good savings account – it should match your daily 'spending' needs with some emergency reserves." – EK SOLAR Engineer
Why Professional Design Matters
While DIY calculations work for basic needs, professional energy audits can:
- Identify hidden power drains
- Optimize battery/inverter pairing
- Ensure code compliance
Need a customized solution? EK SOLAR specialists are ready to help design your perfect power system. Reach us at:
- WhatsApp: +86 138 1658 3346
- Email: [email protected]
Final Calculation Recap
- Determine total wattage needs
- Choose battery voltage
- Calculate base Ah requirement
- Add safety margins (20-30%)
Remember: Oversizing slightly beats undersizing when it comes to battery banks. Your future self will thank you during those long winter nights!
Download What Size Battery Do You Need for a 5800W Inverter? A Practical Guide [PDF]
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