The Truth About Solar Batteries: Lithium (LiFePO4) vs Tubular
The Tubular Trap
Many local installers will sell you cheap Tubular Lead-Acid batteries to make the initial quote look attractive. What they don't tell you is that tubular batteries max out at around 1,000 cycles, require constant water top-ups, and can't be discharged safely past 50% without permanent damage.
The Lithium Advantage
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries cost more upfront but last 5 to 10 times longer (6,000+ cycles). They can be drained to 90% safely, meaning a 5kWh Lithium battery gives you nearly double the usable power of a 5kWh Tubular setup. Furthermore, Lithium requires absolutely zero maintenance.