1. What is the PowerTower?

The PowerTower is Gaia's main energy storage and management product. The core technology of the PowerTower is a combination of advanced power electronics, batteries, and communication modules that harness the power of energy storage in an affordable turnkey solution.

2. What makes the PowerTower unique?

The PowerTower bridges the gap between UPS systems that provide seamless backup power, but only to a single device, and generators, which provide poor power quality and require a complex installation with frequent maintenance. The PowerTower installs indoors, requires no generator permit, produces no polluting emissions, and provides up to several days of power.

3. Are there different PowerTower models available?

The PowerTower is available in the C and R series. Both  PowerTower models provide backup protection to the critical circuits of a  house such as furnaces, refrigerators, pumps, and lighting. The PowerTower C  offers a substantial capacity and highly conditioned power. This makes it  ideal for handling large loads and supporting areas with sensitive  electronics, such as home offices or media rooms. The PowerTower R integrates  renewable inputs such as solar or wind to provide the cleanest possible backup  power solution.

4. How long does it take to charge a PowerTower?

The PowerTower maintains fully charged batteries whenever power is available. After a blackout, a full recharge typically takes a couple of hours.

6. What maintenance does the Power Tower require?

The PowerTower has no moving parts and requires only an annual check, which can be performed by the owner, to ensure that the system is operating properly.

7. What is the warranty on the Power Tower?

The PowerTower has a full two-year warranty for all backup power installations.

8. How does the PowerTower connect to my house?

The PowerTower connects to an emergency subpanel in your home containing all the items you want to run during an outage. Unlike a generator, the PowerTower does not require a transfer switch; the PowerTower’s electronics allow the system to seamlessly and automatically transfer to backup power in milliseconds.

9. What circuits can I power with the PowerTower?

The PowerTower is available in a variety of configurations to meet your power needs. A typical system will provide 1-2 days of backup power for the critical circuits of your house (such as refrigerator, furnace, sump or well pump, phone system, and security system) as well as lights and outlets in several rooms.

10. I already have a stationary generator. Why would I need a PowerTower?

1) A PowerTower hybrid configuration can greatly increase the efficiency of your generator. The PowerTower provides electricity on an as-needed basis, so the generator runs only to charge the batteries. For example, powering a single light at night with a generator alone requires the full output of that generator, while in a PowerTower/ genset configuration, the exact amount of power needed for that light is fed by the PowerTower, with no additional waste. A PowerTower system paired with a generator can reduce genset runtime by up to 75%, decreasing fuel usage and extending the life of the generator. 2) The Power- Tower eliminates the power gap created by a transfer switch 3) A generator frequently has trouble providing clean, conditioned power, and a PowerTower can smooth out the surges and lags in voltage both from the generator and from the utility, protecting sensitive electronic equipment such as computers or stereos.

11. I have a portable generator. Can I use it with a PowerTower?

Yes, you can use it to charge the PowerTower as needed. Be sure to follow all operating instructions.

12. How often will I have to replace the batteries in my PowerTower?

Lead-acid batteries provide the most cost-effective bulk energy storage available today. Gaia Power Technologies uses only the highest quality and longest lasting valve-regulated, sealed lead-acid batteries. Under typical usage, they will last 7-10 years before needing replacement.

13. Where can I put a PowerTower?

The PowerTower is emission-free and about the size of a large filing cabinet, allowing for convenient installation in a basement or garage. For best performance, it should be placed in a dry location with temperatures that stay between 32 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. It should not be placed outdoors.

14. What does 'it's always on' mean?

The PowerTower includes a monitoring function that measures power flow. The PowerTower comes online instantaneously in response to outages or interruptions to maintain a continuous power supply.

15. Who do I call if I need support?

You should contact your local Gaia Authorized Dealer, who has a 24-hour emergency hotline. You can also always call Gaia at 888-424-2669.

16. Who installs a PowerTower? How long does installation take and how much does it cost?

A PowerTower is installed by a licensed electrician. Gaia can work with an electrician of your choice, or may be able to recommend someone in your area familiar with the system. Installation takes a few hours at most, and requires no concrete pouring, tank installation, or wall mounting. The cost will depend upon the rate of electricians in your area.

17. What environmental benefits does the PowerTower offer?

The PowerTower produces no polluting emissions during operation, and recharges using utility power, which is significantly cleaner than that produced by a small generator. Renewable power sources, such as solar or wind power, can also be used to charge the PowerTower.

18. I have/am getting solar power. Can a PowerTower help? What else do I need to make a PowerTower work with my solar installation?

The PowerTower R is designed to recharge from solar or wind power and increases the efficiency and simplifies the management of any alternative power installation. To learn more about how PowerTower works with alternative energy sources, click here.

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