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Questions to Ask Before Paying for a Lithium Battery
It seems these days everywhere you turn there’s a new lithium battery brand. Walk through any major city, browse online, check WhatsApp business groups – suddenly everyone’s selling lithium batteries. “Premium quality!” “Best price!” “5-year warranty!”
Here’s the thing: the battery is the most expensive part of most solar installations. You’re looking at ₦300,000 to millions depending on capacity. That’s not money you can afford to throw away on a battery that fails in a year or 2 because you didn’t ask the right questions upfront.
This isn’t about being difficult with sellers. It’s about protecting your investment. Any reputable seller should be able to answer these questions clearly and without hesitation. If they can’t, or if they get defensive, that tells you everything you need to know.
About The Cells: What’s Actually Inside
The cells are the heart of your battery. Everything else – the BMS, the casing, the warranty – means nothing if the cells are fake or substandard.
“What brand are the cells?”
Not “what grade” – what brand. EVE, CATL, BYD, Hithium, CALB, Sunwoda – these are real cell manufacturers.
Good answer: “These are EVE MB31 280Ah cells” or “Hithium 280Ah cells”
Bad answer: “Premium Grade A cells” (without naming manufacturer)
Red flag: Vague responses like “Chinese cells” or “same quality as EVE”
Why this matters: Cell brand directly affects price, performance, and lifespan. EVE and CATL cells cost more but deliver 8,000-10,000 cycles. Unknown brands might give you 3,000 cycles if you’re lucky.
“Can I see the cell QR codes and test certificates?”
Every legitimate cell has a QR code that traces back to the manufacturer. Scan it and you should get cell specifications, manufacturing date, and batch information.
Good answer: Seller shows you the QR codes, provides test certificates, and demonstrates scanning them to verify authenticity
Bad answer: “The cells are sealed in the battery, can’t open it”
Red flag: “We don’t have those” or “Trust me, they’re genuine”
Why this matters: Counterfeit cells are everywhere in Nigeria. Recycled cells from old laptops or EVs with fake labels are common. QR codes are your only proof you’re getting what you paid for.
“What’s the actual manufacturing date of these cells?”
Cells degrade over time, even when not in use. You don’t want cells that have been sitting in a warehouse for 2 years.
Good answer: Manufacturing date within the last 6-12 months
Bad answer: “I don’t know” or “Does it matter?”
Red flag: Cells manufactured more than 18 months ago
Why this matters: Old cells start with reduced capacity. Your “14kWh battery” might only be 12kWh if the cells are 2 years old.
“Can you provide the full capacity test results?”
Proper batteries come with test results showing actual capacity measurements, not just spec sheets claiming capacity.
Good answer: Provides detailed test results from the manufacturer showing capacity measurements
Bad answer: Just shows you the spec sheet with claimed capacity
Red flag: “All our batteries are tested, trust us”
Why this matters: Many batteries claim 14kWh but actually deliver 11-12kWh. Test results prove what you’re really getting.
About The BMS: Your Battery’s Protection System
The BMS is the brains of your battery. It protects, monitors, and manages everything. A battery with great cells but a terrible BMS is still a terrible battery.
“What BMS brand and model is this?”
Not just “it has BMS” – what specific BMS?
Good answer: Names the BMS manufacturer and model, explains key features
Bad answer: “Standard BMS with all protections”
Red flag: Can’t tell you what BMS is used
Why this matters: There are fantastic BMS systems and there are garbage ones. You need to know which you’re getting.
“What communication protocols does the BMS support?”
Especially for higher capacity batteries, your battery needs to talk to your inverter. CAN bus, RS485, Modbus – these are the protocols that matter.
Good answer: “Supports CAN and RS485, compatible with Deye, Growatt, Victron, SMA…” (lists specific inverter brands)
Bad answer: “It works with all inverters”
Red flag: “No communication needed, just connect and use”
Why this matters: Without proper communication, your inverter can’t monitor battery state, optimize charging, or shut down safely. You’re flying blind with a ₦3 million battery.
“Can I monitor the battery via app?”
Modern batteries should let you see what’s happening in real-time via smartphone app.
Good answer: Shows you the app, demonstrates live monitoring of cell voltages, temperatures, current, state of charge
Bad answer: “You can check it on the inverter display”
Red flag: No monitoring available at all
Why this matters: When something goes wrong, you need to know immediately. Cell-level monitoring helps diagnose issues before they become failures.
“What protection features are included?”
Overvoltage, undervoltage, overcurrent, short circuit, over-temperature, under-temperature – these are basic protections every BMS should have.
Good answer: Lists all protection features clearly, explains how they work
Bad answer: “Yes, it has protection”
Red flag: Can’t explain what protections are included
Why this matters: These protections are what keep your battery (and your house) safe. Battery safety isn’t optional.
About Construction and Safety
How the battery is built matters as much as what’s inside it.
“How are the cells compressed and arranged?”
Proper cell compression is critical for longevity. Cells need consistent pressure, proper spacing, and secure mounting.
Good answer: Explains compression system, shows pictures of internal construction
Bad answer: “They’re in there properly”
Red flag: Has never opened a battery or can’t explain construction
Why this matters: Loose cells vibrate, connections fail, and performance degrades. Proper construction means your battery lasts 15 years instead of 5.
“What safety certifications does this battery have?”
UN38.3, CE, MSDS – these are minimum certifications for quality batteries.
Good answer: Provides certification documents, explains what each certification means
Bad answer: “It’s certified, don’t worry”
Red flag: No certifications or can’t provide documentation
Why this matters: Certifications mean the battery has been tested by independent labs. No certifications? No way to verify it’s safe.
About Warranty and Support
A warranty is only as good as the company standing behind it.
“What exactly does the warranty cover?”
Not just “5-year warranty” – what specifically is covered?
Good answer: Written warranty terms clearly stating what’s covered (manufacturing defects, cell failures, BMS issues) and what’s not (physical damage, improper installation, misuse)
Bad answer: Verbal promise of “full warranty”
Red flag: “Everything is covered” (too vague) or no written warranty terms
Why this matters: When your battery fails in year 2, you need written proof of what’s covered. Verbal promises mean nothing when the seller’s phone is suddenly off.
“Who handles warranty claims – you or the manufacturer in China?”
This is crucial. A warranty serviced in China is essentially no warranty.
Good answer: “We handle all warranty claims locally with our certified technicians. On-site repair within 48-72 hours for Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt”
Bad answer: “Contact the manufacturer directly”
Red flag: “You’ll need to ship it back to China for warranty”
Why this matters: Shipping a 50kg battery to China costs more than some batteries. Local warranty support is essential.
“Do you have replacement parts available in Nigeria?”
BMS units fail. Cells occasionally go bad. You need parts available locally.
Good answer: “We stock BMS units, cables, and can source replacement cells within 2 weeks”
Bad answer: “We can order from China if needed”
Red flag: “Nothing ever breaks, you won’t need parts”
Why this matters: A battery with no available replacement parts becomes e-waste when the BMS fails in year 3.
“Can you provide references from customers with similar installations?”
Real businesses have real customers willing to share their experiences.
Good answer: Provides contact details for 2-3 customers with similar battery systems, encourages you to speak with them
Bad answer: “We have thousands of happy customers” (but won’t name any)
Red flag: Refuses to provide references or gets defensive about the request
Why this matters: Speaking to actual users tells you if the battery performs as promised and if the company actually provides support.
“What happens if you go out of business?”
Harsh question, but necessary. Companies disappear in Nigeria.
Good answer: “Warranty is backed by the manufacturer directly. Here’s their contact. If we’re gone, you can claim warranty through them”
Bad answer: “We’re not going anywhere”
Red flag: Can’t explain what happens to your warranty if they close
Why this matters: You’re buying a 15-year product. The company needs to exist for 15 years or have a backup plan.
About Price and Value
Price tells you a lot about what you’re really buying.
“Why is your 14kWh battery ₦1.8 million when others cost ₦3.5 million?”
If the price is significantly below market, there’s a reason. Ask what it is.
Good answer: Honestly explains the difference (uses Hithium vs EVE cells, basic BMS vs advanced, smaller profit margin, bulk purchase discount)
Bad answer: “We just have better prices”
Red flag: Can’t explain the price difference or gets defensive
Why this matters: That ₦1.7 million “savings” usually comes from fake cells, no warranty support, or quality corners cut. Understanding battery pricing helps you spot suspicious deals.
“What’s included in this price?”
Price for the battery alone, or does it include cables, installation, delivery?
Good answer: Itemized breakdown (battery ₦X, cables ₦Y, delivery ₦Z, installation ₦W)
Bad answer: “Everything you need is included” (without specifying what that means)
Red flag: Price seems great until you discover cables, delivery, and installation cost another ₦400,000
Why this matters: Compare total installed cost, not just battery price. A cheaper battery that costs ₦300,000 more to install isn’t cheaper.
“Do you offer any payment plans?”
₦3 million is a lot of cash. Legitimate businesses often offer installment options.
Good answer: Explains payment plan options (deposit amount, installment period, interest if any)
Bad answer: “Cash only, full payment”
Red flag: “Pay cash and I’ll give you a discount” (avoiding documentation)
Why this matters: Payment plans from established businesses are usually safe. But cash-only deals without receipts? Recipe for disaster when you need warranty service.
About Compatibility and Installation
A great battery installed incorrectly is still a disaster.
“Is this battery compatible with my inverter?”
Don’t assume. Verify.
Good answer: Asks what inverter you have, confirms compatibility, explains any settings that need adjustment
Bad answer: “Works with all inverters”
Red flag: Doesn’t ask what inverter you have
Why this matters: Not all inverters work with all batteries. Incompatibility can prevent charging, cause cycling issues, or damage equipment.
“Do you provide installation or can you recommend certified installers?”
Professional installation matters for safety and warranty.
Good answer: Either provides installation service or recommends specific certified installers they work with
Bad answer: “Any electrician can install it”
Red flag: “Just connect positive to positive, negative to negative”
Why this matters: Improper installation voids warranties and creates safety risks. After Afriland, you can’t be too careful.
“What cables and accessories do I need, and are they included?”
Power cables, communication cables, breakers – these add up fast.
Good answer: Lists required accessories, states what’s included and what costs extra
Bad answer: “You’ll need some cables” (without specifics)
Red flag: Discovers after purchase that you need ₦150,000 in cables and accessories
Why this matters: Budget for total system cost, not just battery price.
About After-Sales Support
The relationship shouldn’t end when you pay.
“What’s your response time for technical issues?”
When your battery stops working, how fast do they respond?
Good answer: “WhatsApp/phone support same day, on-site visit within 48-72 hours for major issues”
Bad answer: “We’ll get back to you”
Red flag: “Contact us via email and we’ll respond when we can”
Why this matters: A battery problem that takes 3 weeks to resolve costs you in generator fuel, lost productivity, and frustration.
“What firmware updates or upgrades are available?”
Technology improves. Your battery should too.
Good answer: Explains update process, mentions recent improvements made to BMS firmware
Bad answer: “No updates needed”
Red flag: Doesn’t know what firmware is
Why this matters: Quality BMS systems receive updates to improve performance, add features, and fix bugs. No updates means you’re stuck with whatever you bought forever.
Red Flags That Should Make You Walk Away
Some warning signs are so serious you should just leave, regardless of price:
1. Can’t or won’t show cell QR codes This is non-negotiable. No verification = fake cells.
3. Pressure tactics “Buy today or price goes up tomorrow” = desperation, not confidence.
4. Can’t explain technical details If they don’t understand the product, they can’t support it.
5. Price too good to be true ₦1.2 million for 14kWh when market price is ₦2.8M+ means something’s wrong.
6. No written warranty Verbal promises = nothing.
7. Defensive when questioned Good sellers welcome questions. Bad ones get angry.
8. Can’t provide customer references If no one will vouch for them, there’s a reason.
9. Suggests cutting corners “Don’t need professional installation, save money” = disaster waiting to happen.
10. Unclear about support “We’ll handle it if there’s a problem” without specifics = you’re on your own.
How to Verify Answers
Don’t just accept answers. Verify them.
For cell claims:
- Scan QR codes yourself
- Cross-reference specifications online
- Check manufacturing dates on certificates
For warranty claims:
- Get everything in writing
- Check warranty seal stickers
- Contact manufacturer directly to verify authorized distributor status
For support claims:
- Call customer references they provide
- Check online reviews
- Visit their physical location
For compatibility claims:
- Check your inverter manual for battery requirements
- Join online forums for your inverter brand
- Contact inverter manufacturer if unsure
For pricing:
- Get quotes from 3-4 reputable suppliers
- Understand what drives price differences
- Remember: significantly lower price = something’s missing
Questions You Should Be Able to Answer
Before you pay, make sure YOU can answer these about your purchase:
- What brand cells am I getting?
- What’s the BMS model and key features?
- What capacity will I actually get (not just claimed)?
- What exactly does my warranty cover?
- Who do I call when something goes wrong?
- Is this compatible with my existing system?
- What’s my total installed cost?
- Can I verify everything the seller claimed?
If you can’t confidently answer these questions, you don’t know enough to buy yet.
The Smart Buying Process
Here’s how to use these questions:
Step 1: Create a spreadsheet with questions and space for answers from multiple suppliers
Step 2: Contact 3-4 suppliers, ask the same questions to each
Step 3: Record answers, note which suppliers were helpful vs defensive
Step 4: Eliminate anyone who couldn’t answer clearly or showed red flags
Step 5: Visit physical locations of remaining suppliers
Step 6: Contact customer references
Step 7: Verify key claims (cell QR codes, certifications, warranty terms)
Step 8: Compare total installed costs, not just battery prices
Step 9: Choose based on answers, not just price
Yes, this takes time. But you’re spending ₦640,000 to ₦3,900,000. A few extra hours of research can save you years of frustration.
When Price is the Only Question
Some people skip all these questions and just ask “what’s your best price?”
That’s like buying a used car based purely on price without checking the engine, mileage, or accident history.
The cheapest battery rarely turns out to be the best value. Usually it’s the cheapest because:
- Cells are fake or recycled
- BMS is basic with no features
- No real warranty support
- Built in someone’s garage
- Seller won’t be around in 6 months
A battery is a 15-year investment. Choose based on quality and support, not just the lowest price today.
Final Thoughts
These days everyone’s selling lithium batteries. But not everyone’s selling good lithium batteries with real support.
Your job as a buyer is to figure out who’s legitimate and who’s just trying to make a quick sale before disappearing.
The questions in this guide separate good sellers from bad ones. Good sellers welcome detailed questions – they’re confident in what they’re selling. Bad sellers get defensive, dodge questions, or pressure you to buy before you can think.
Your battery is the most expensive part of your solar system. It’s also the most important – without reliable storage, the whole system fails.
Take your time. Ask hard questions. Verify answers. Visit locations. Check references. Read warranties.
And if a seller gets annoyed that you’re being thorough? Perfect. That’s exactly who you didn’t want to buy from anyway.
The right battery from the right supplier is worth every naira. The wrong battery from a shady seller costs you far more than the purchase price – it costs you years of frustration, lost productivity, and expensive replacements.
Choose wisely.
Need help evaluating battery options?
📱 WhatsApp: +234-809-988-9889
📧 Email: sales@lithiumbatteries.com.ng
We welcome tough questions. If we can’t answer them clearly, you shouldn’t buy from us either.