What happens to a battery backup system when I move house?

When you move house, your battery backup system can typically be relocated, left in place, or transferred to new owners, depending on the system type, installation method, and agreements with buyers. Here’s what UK homeowners and small businesses need to know:

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Key considerations when moving

Relocation feasibility

• Portable systems (e.g., BLUETTI modular units) can be unplugged and moved if they’re not hardwired. These often function like large power banks and require no professional disconnection.
• Integrated systems (e.g., Tesla Powerwall, GivEnergy) are usually permanently wired into your property’s electrical setup. Moving them involves:
• Hiring a certified installer to safely disconnect the system (£300-£800).
• Transporting heavy lithium-ion batteries (requires specialist handling).
• Reinstalling at the new property, which may need updated permissions or electrical upgrades.

Leaving the system behind

• Boosting property value: Solar/battery setups can increase buyer appeal, particularly with rising UK energy prices. Current data suggests homes with battery storage can see a 5-14% value increase in competitive markets.
• Transferring warranties: Most warranties (e.g., Duracell Energy’s 10-year warranty) remain valid for the new owner if the system stays, provided registration is updated.

Selling separately

Niche battery systems (e.g., older or off-grid models) may need to be sold privately if the buyer doesn’t want them. This requires:

• Proper documentation, including installation certificates.
• Disclosing battery health, typically shown through the system’s app (e.g., Duracell Energy App’s performance logs).

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UK-specific practical advice

Before moving

1. Review your contract: Some UK installers offer free/shallow-cost system transfers to retain you as a customer.
2. Check DNO requirements: Notify your Distribution Network Operator (e.g., UK Power Networks) if removing a grid-tied system.
3. Update smart tariffs: If using time-of-use tariffs like Octopus Agile, cancel or transfer the account.

Common mistakes

• Assuming all batteries are portable: Most home systems require professional removal, especially if integrated with solar panels.
• Overlooking battery aging: Lithium-ion batteries lose ~2-3% capacity annually. Older systems may not justify relocation costs.
• Ignoring buyer communication: Clear explanations about the system’s benefits (e.g., using BLUETTI’s blackout protection) help avoid sale delays.

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Transfer process example

1. Agreement with buyer: Decide whether to include the system in the sale (often negotiable in the UK).
2. Professional assessment: Get a certified installer to evaluate both properties’ compatibility.
3. Reinstallation: At the new property, ensure compliance with IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671:2018+A2:2022).

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Pros and cons of relocation

Pros	Cons
Continued energy savings at new property	High costs (£1,500-£3,500 for removal/reinstall)
Avoid educating new owners about the system	Potential incompatibility with new property’s electrical setup
Keep custom configurations (e.g., GivEnergy’s tariff optimization)	Voided warranties if moved incorrectly

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Final tip: For newer systems (<3 years old), relocation often makes financial sense if you plan to stay long-term at the new property. For older setups, use the move as an opportunity to upgrade to modular systems like BLUETTI AC300 + B300K, which offer easier reconfiguration.