Anker SOLIX Expansion Battery

The Anker SOLIX Expansion Battery adds modular, stackable capacity to compatible Anker SOLIX power stations and home energy systems. Use it to extend runtime for essentials during outages, lengthen off-grid stays, and power gear at events or jobsites—without fuel, fumes, or noise.

What it is

A LiFePO4 expansion battery that connects to designated Anker SOLIX power stations to increase total watt-hours. The system monitors and balances cells through an integrated battery management system (BMS) for safe charging and discharging.

When to choose it

• Home backup: Keep a refrigerator, lights, and internet running overnight or through multi-day storms by adding one or more modules.
• RV and overlanding: Stretch boondocking days without running a generator, especially for fridges, fans, and electronics.
• Work and events: Support cameras, audio gear, laptops, and lighting across long shoots or pop-up venues.

When to consider alternatives

• If you only need brief power (under 1 hour for a few devices), a single power station may be enough.
• If you plan to run high-heat loads (space heaters, electric ranges), battery systems drain quickly—consider reducing those loads or using other energy sources.
• If your SOLIX model is not expansion-capable, choose a compatible base unit first.

How much capacity to add

Estimate your needs using a simple approach:

1. List devices and their watt (W) draw.
2. Choose hours you want to run them.
3. Wh needed ≈ Watts × Hours ÷ 0.85 (adds a margin for inverter/other losses).

Typical nightly targets

• Internet + phones + a few LED lights: 0.5–1 kWh
• Fridge + internet + lights: 1–2 kWh
• CPAP + lights + phone/laptop charging: 1–2 kWh
• RV with 12V fridge, fans, and electronics: 2–4 kWh

Runtime per 1 kWh of added capacity

Assuming ~85% usable energy (real-world):

Note: Refrigerators and pumps cycle on/off; actual runtime depends on duty cycle and ambient temperature.

Charging and recovery time

• Recharge time (hours) ≈ Added capacity (Wh) ÷ Charger input (W).
• Example: Adding 2,000 Wh with an 800 W charger ≈ 2.5 hours (conditions vary).
• Solar: Daily energy from panels varies by season and location. As a rough guide, each 200 W of panels can yield ~600–1,000 Wh on a sunny day.

Setup and compatibility

• Use only manufacturer-approved expansion batteries and cables for your specific Anker SOLIX model.
• Check your base unit’s max number of expansion batteries and supported configurations in the user manual.
• Place modules on a stable surface with ventilation clearance. Stack or rack only as instructed by the manufacturer.
• Update firmware in the companion app (if available) before heavy use and after adding modules.

Pros and limits

• Pros: Quiet, zero local emissions, modular growth, fast AC or solar recharging, long-cycle LiFePO4 chemistry, app monitoring on supported models.
• Limits: High-heat appliances drain capacity quickly; total output power is limited by the base power station’s inverter; mixing non-approved batteries is not supported.

Care and safety

• Operate within the recommended temperature range; avoid direct sunlight and wet environments.
• Do not store at 0% for long periods; maintain ~50–80% state of charge for storage and top up every 2–3 months.
• Inspect and firmly seat expansion cables; power down before attaching or removing modules if the manual requires it.
• Keep vents clear; do not block airflow when stacking.

FAQ