It’s no big secret that we’re big fans of Enphase products. We’ve installed their solar systems and sold their home batteries for years. We’ve also won Australia’s Top Installer award several years running.
Enphase is offering a new battery. It’s a lot like the previous generations of the IQ Battery 5P. But this battery supports three-phase backup.
You might be wondering if this is just the same 5kWh battery with a fancy name?
At PSC Energy, we help homeowners who feel frustrated by the pace at which Enphase has moved with batteries. You might even feel like they’ve missed the wave, and you’re right to think that. While other brands rushed out higher-capacity systems with three-phase support, Enphase stuck with the same smaller battery. So now that the FlexPhase is finally here, it’s fair to ask: is it enough?
In this article, you’ll learn about the following:
- What’s New with the Enphase IQ Battery 5P with FlexPhase?
- Advantages of the Enphase IQ Battery 5P FlexPhase
- Disadvantages of the Enphase IQ Battery 5P FlexPhase
- How the Enphase IQ Battery 5P FlexPhase Compares to Tesla and Sigenergy
- Who Should Buy the Enphase IQ Battery 5P FlexPhase?
- FAQ: Enphase IQ Battery 5P FlexPhase
We know these products inside and out because we’ve installed them, lived with them, and dealt with the ups and downs of supporting them. In fact, we’ve put this battery in our own parents’ homes. So, this review isn’t based on theory. It’s based on real use and honest experience.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear overview of the new Enphase IQ Battery 5P with FlexPhase. We’ll cover what’s new, its strengths, and its weaknesses.
What’s New with the Enphase IQ Battery 5P with FlexPhase?
The main upgrade in the new Enphase battery is something called FlexPhase. That means this battery can now work with single-phase, two-phase, or three-phase homes.
If you’re not sure what that means, that’s okay. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Most homes in Australia run on single-phase power, which means all your electricity flows through one line from the grid to your home.
- Some larger homes and more recently built homes use three-phase power.
Until now, the Enphase battery couldn’t properly back up all three phases. The previous generation of this battery was single-phase only.
For three-phase homes, this new iteration of an old favourite can back up all three phases. This keeps the power on throughout the home, rather than the partial backup offered before.
For a single-phase home, it will work just like the older version.
Here’s the catch: the battery size hasn’t changed. It’s still 5.0 kWh of usable energy, just like before.
- If you’re new to solar batteries, 5.0 kWh means it can store enough energy to run your home for a few hours, depending on what you’re using.
- For example, if your house is using 1,000 watts (1 kW) of power, the battery would last about 5 hours. If you’re using 2 kW, it would last about 2.5 hours.
- It’s not much energy storage for the price.
However, there are advantages to this Enphase battery:
Six built-in microinverters: These convert stored energy into usable power for your home. Enphase is known for its microinverters, and having them built into the battery means smoother integration with your Enphase solar system.
Wall-mount or floor-mounting: It can be installed with the same flexibility as the previous version.
Scalable: The battery is modular, and you can add more if your energy needs grow.
Wired communication: This is faster and more reliable than Wi-Fi.
Remote monitoring: The system supports monitoring in the same way, through the Enphase App. The Enlighten App lets you check your battery charge, usage, and solar production anytime.
No fans or moving parts: The battery cools passively, which means there are fewer parts that can break. Fewer moving parts also use less energy and generate less heat. Too much heat, especially in Australia, can cause shutdowns.
LFP (lithium iron phosphate): It’s built on a chemistry known for stability and safety.
In short, the battery hasn’t changed much in size or shape, but it now offers more installation options and better backup support. That’s a big deal for homeowners with three-phase power who want full home backup.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about IQ Batteries from Enphase, you might want to check out the following article titled, Pros and Cons of the Enphase IQ Battery 5P Solar Battery.
Advantages of the Enphase IQ Battery 5P FlexPhase
Let’s start with the strong points, because there are quite a few. It is from Enphase after all, a company known for its premier products.
15-year warranty: That’s longer than any other home battery on the market right now. Most batteries offer 10 years, sometimes less.
The Enphase IQ Battery 5P is covered for 6,000 cycles or 15 years, whichever comes first. The peace of mind you’ll receive matters when you’re investing thousands of dollars into a home energy system.
Enphase has built this battery to last.
Microinverter technology: Enphase remains the leader. Their microinverters come with a twenty-five-year warranty. They’ve carried that same technology into the battery.
Six microinverters are powering the charge and discharge cycles just like before. This distributed architecture ensures reliability by eliminating a central point of failure.
If one internal microinverter fails, the battery will continue to operate at reduced capacity until your installer replaces the faulty microinverter. That’s something that other solar batteries cannot do.
It’s a handy feature when you consider the wait times installers face for repairs and warranty fulfilment. Your battery continues working for you rather than fully shutting down.
Enphase ecosystem: Everything works within it. You’ll have fewer compatibility issues and smoother performance. If you already have an Enphase solar system, this battery is an excellent complement to the panels/microinverters on the roof.
Build quality: This battery is solid. While there are some visual gripes (more on that later), the internal design is smart.
Modular design: You can add more batteries later as your energy use increases. It’s the perfect battery for upgrading later. Choosing this product means future-proofing your storage investment.
Black-start capable: If your home loses power and the battery runs out of juice, the system can search for solar input and restart. Some other brands offer this now, but Enphase was one of the first to bring it to market.
Installation flexibility: Whether your house has one, two, or three phases, this battery can be wired to suit your home. That flexibility makes installations easier, which saves you money by requiring less time from your preferred installer.
Overall, the Enphase battery works best for homeowners who want reliability, long warranties, and a proven track record. If that sounds like you, it’s a strong choice.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about IQ Batteries, you might want to check out the following article titled, What is the Lifespan of the Enphase IQ Battery 5P?
Disadvantages of the Enphase IQ Battery 5P FlexPhase
Now let’s talk about the disadvantages.
Size: The most obvious drawback is still the size. A 5.0 kWh battery isn’t enough for most modern homes, especially in Australia, where air conditioning, pool pumps, and home appliances can draw serious energy.
- Most homes we work with now are asking for at least 10 kWh of usable storage, and many are going for 13 to 15 kWh and up.
- With FlexPhase, you’ll have to buy and install two to three of these batteries to match the level of storage that other batteries in its class have.
- Your costs will increase, your wall space will shrink as you add more batteries, and your installation will be more complex, adding time and cost to your installation.
- At 83 kg per battery, you’ll need strong support to install them safely.
The FlexPhase takes up more wall space for the amount of energy you get, compared to other brands. For example:
- Sigenergy offers higher-capacity single or three-phase batteries with a sleeker design that fits more power into a smaller footprint.
- Tesla’s Powerwall is also more compact, with 13.5 kWh of usable storage in a single unit. However, it’s still a single-phase product.
Then there’s the Enphase gateway, another box you’ll bolt onto the side of your home. If you install the battery, you also need to install this control unit.
Currently, the gateway is big, made of plastic, and takes up a lot of space. It’s not the best-looking unit, and it’s not as refined as it should be.
Enphase promises a new, smaller version coming to Australia, but it’s not here yet.
Other brands are doing better in this area:
- Sigenergy uses a compact, better-looking metal enclosure.
- Tesla’s gateway is smaller and more polished, and it blends better into most homes.
If your battery system is going somewhere visible, that might matter to you.
Limited power output: The default setting is 3.84 kW, but it can be adjusted depending on your needs. That’s fine for most homes, but it might not cover high-power loads during a blackout unless you have multiple batteries.
While the IQ Battery 5P FlexPhase is stable, safe, and long-lasting, it’s not the best option for energy-intensive homes or people who want a clean, compact setup.
If you’re interested in solar batteries, you might want to check out the following article titled, Are Solar Batteries Worth It in NSW? PSC’s Ultimate Guide for 2026.
How the Enphase IQ Battery 5P FlexPhase Compares to Tesla and Sigenergy
Let’s see how the Enphase IQ Battery 5P compares to two major competitors: Tesla and Sigenergy.
Tesla Powerwall:
- It offers 13.5 kWh of usable storage in a single battery. That’s more than two and a half times the capacity of one Enphase battery.
- Supports three-phase backup and comes with a 10-year warranty.
- It’s sleek, well-designed, and more compact on the wall.
- Smart features like time-of-use shifting and remote updates are included. Enphase offers similar features, but you’ll need more units to match Tesla’s storage capacity.
Sigenergy SigenStor:
- The SigenStor is a newer name, and its warranty process is untested, but it’s gaining ground fast.
- Their batteries offer higher capacity, higher energy density, and metal enclosures that withstand hot conditions.
- SigenStor costs less per kilowatt-hour than Enphase.
- Sigenergy’s system is stackable, easy to install, and built to stay cool even in direct sunlight. They’ve improved on earlier products and fixed common issues like bulky gateways and poor app design.
So, how does Enphase hold up?
- Warranty length.
- Microinverter integration.
- Long-term reliability.
When it comes to value for money, space efficiency, and storage size, Tesla and Sigenergy are lightyears ahead.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about the price of solar batteries, you might want to check out the following article titled, How Much Are Solar Batteries? A Full Breakdown of Prices, Rebates, and Value in 2026.
Who Should Buy the Enphase IQ Battery 5P FlexPhase?
This battery isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay.
- It works best for homeowners who have limited energy needs.
- It’s also a good choice if you only want to back up essential items.
- If you live in a single-phase home and already have Enphase solar, this battery will still drop in easily and do the job well.
You’ll get a reliable, safe battery with strong warranty support from a company that stands behind its products.
It’s a smart choice if you prefer peace of mind over the latest features. Enphase has a long track record of supporting its customers.
However, if you want to power your whole house during a blackout or use a lot of energy, you’ll need several units. This can be costly and take up more wall space.
If you’re building a new system or making major upgrades, a higher-capacity battery from Tesla or Sigenergy might offer better value.
If you’d like to learn a bit more about what solar batteries are on the market, you might want to check out the following article titled, 6 Best Solar Batteries on the Market.
Your Solar Doesn’t Panic. It just FlexPhases.
Enphase has finally released a three-phase capable battery that’s flexible, reliable, and comes with a strong warranty. However, it still has some drawbacks from earlier models.
It’s not a game-changer in terms of capacity, and it doesn’t solve every problem from previous generations. You’ll need to weigh the value of long-term reliability and support against newer features and better pricing from competitors.
At PSC Energy, it’s no secret that we believe in Enphase as a company. However, we feel they’ve dropped the ball in developing a battery that suits high-energy households, which are usually three-phase sites.
If you already like Enphase or want a battery that will last for years without warranty drama, this is a safe bet. But if you’re after big power, compact design, and the latest tech, you should explore your options, like Powerwall or SigenStor, both of which we install.
If you’re interested in learning a bit more about the changes to the Cheaper Home Batteries Program, you might want to check out the following article titled, Changes to the Australian Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program Explained.
FAQ: Enphase IQ Battery 5P FlexPhase
What is the Enphase IQ Battery 5P with FlexPhase?
The Enphase IQ Battery 5P with FlexPhase is a 5.0 kWh home battery that stores solar energy for use later.
· It works with single-phase, two-phase, or three-phase power.
· It uses built-in microinverters to turn stored energy into usable power.
· It can run during blackouts and lets you monitor everything through the Enphase App.
What does FlexPhase mean?
FlexPhase means the battery can be wired for different home setups. It works with single-phase, two-phase, or three-phase homes. You’ll have more options if you ever upgrade your home energy system. It allows for true three-phase backup, which was not possible with older Enphase batteries.
How much energy does the Enphase IQ Battery 5P store?
The battery stores 5.0 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of usable energy. That means it can power a 1,000-watt load for five hours. If your home uses more power at once, the battery will run for a shorter time.
Is the Enphase IQ Battery 5P big enough for my house?
That depends on how much energy you use. For small homes or people who only want to back up essential loads like fridges and lights, one battery may be enough. For larger homes or full home backup, you may need two or three batteries. Each one holds 5.0 kWh, so more batteries mean more storage.
How does the Enphase IQ Battery 5P compare to the Tesla Powerwall?
The Tesla Powerwall stores 13.5 kWh, which is more than the combined capacity of two Enphase batteries. Tesla’s battery is smaller and sleeker. Enphase offers a 15-year warranty, while Tesla offers a 10-year warranty. Tesla may be better for homes that need more backup power. Enphase may suit homes that already use Enphase solar or want a longer warranty.
How does the Enphase battery compare to Sigenergy?
Sigenergy batteries offer more energy in a smaller space. They have better energy density, which means you get more power with less wall space. Sigenergy costs less per kWh and offers stackable options. Enphase wins on warranty and microinverter support but falls behind in size and value.
Can I add more Enphase batteries later?
Yes. The Enphase system is modular. That means you can add more IQ Battery 5P units as your energy needs grow. Your installer can help connect and commission the new units.
What kind of battery chemistry does the Enphase IQ Battery 5P use?
It uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry. This type of battery is known for safety, stability, and long life. It does not overheat easily and works well in home settings.
Can the Enphase battery run my whole house during a blackout?
Yes, but only if you install enough units. One 5.0 kWh battery may not run everything in your home for long. To run big appliances or use power over a whole night, you will need more batteries. For a complete home backup in a three-phase house, you should talk to your installer about the appropriate system size.
What is the power output of the Enphase IQ Battery 5P?
The default power output is 3.84 kW. That is enough to run small to medium loads. In backup mode, it can give a short burst of up to 7.68 kW for 3 seconds and 6.14 kW for 10 seconds. This helps start appliances such as pumps or motors.
Does the Enphase battery work without solar panels?
No. The Enphase battery is made to work with solar energy. It stores excess solar power during the day and sends it back to your home when needed. You cannot charge it from the grid.
What is the warranty on the Enphase IQ Battery 5P FlexPhase?
The battery comes with a 15-year warranty or 6,000 cycles, whichever comes first. A cycle means one full charge and discharge. Most other batteries only offer a 10-year warranty, so this is one of the longest available.
How big and heavy is the Enphase battery?
The battery is 980 mm tall, 550 mm wide, and 188 mm deep. It weighs 83 kg. You can mount it on a wall or place it on the floor using a floor kit. Wall mounting is the most common setup.
Do I need the Enphase gateway with this battery?
Yes. You must install the Enphase gateway along with the battery. The gateway controls backup power, monitors the system, and connects it to the Enphase App. Some people find the gateway too large or bulky, but Enphase says a smaller version is coming.
Can I monitor the Enphase battery from my phone?
Yes. The Enphase App lets you track your battery’s charge level, energy use, solar production, and backup status. You can check it from your phone, tablet, or computer.
