your Franklin system has three different work modes, depending on what you need, some work modes might work best for you.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Self-consumption
The Self-Consumption mode prioritizes using the energy generated by your solar panels and stored in the aPower batteries before drawing power from the grid.
How It Works:
- Solar Power First – The system uses solar energy to power your home.
- Charge Batteries – Excess solar energy is stored in the aPower batteries instead of sending it back to the grid.
- Battery Discharge – When solar production is low or at night, the system discharges stored energy to keep your home running.
- Grid as Last Resort – The system only pulls from the grid if the battery is depleted and solar power is unavailable.
Benefits:
- Maximizes Solar Usage – Reduces dependence on the grid.
- Saves Money – Minimizes electricity costs, especially in areas with high TOU (Time-of-Use) rates.
- Energy Independence – Ensures more reliable power in case of grid instability.
Notes:
- If the batteries are already at full charge then the excess solar will be exported to the grid as long as grid export is not restricted.
- During an outage the system switches automatically to emergency backup, it will use all the stored energy to power the home, including the reserve power.
Emergency Backup
Emergency Backup Mode is designed to maximize the amount of energy stored in your battery for potential outages. When the grid is up, this mode restricts sources for feeding the home to grid energy and solar energy.
How It Works:
- Grid Outage Detection – The system automatically detects a power outage and switches to battery power within milliseconds.
- Battery Discharge – The aPower batteries supply power to essential loads or the whole home, depending on your setup.
- Solar Recharging (If Available) – If your home has solar panels, they continue generating energy and recharging the batteries during the day.
- Smart Energy Management – The aGate controller optimizes power distribution, ensuring that critical loads (e.g., fridge, lights, medical devices) are prioritized to extend backup duration.
- Automatic Grid Reconnection – Once power is restored, the system seamlessly switches back to grid power and resumes normal operation.
Benefits:
- Seamless Transition – Instant switch ensures no interruption to critical appliances.
- Longer Backup Duration – Optimized energy use extends battery life.
- ️ Solar-Powered Resilience – If solar is available, the system can operate indefinitely off-grid.
Notes:
- When this mode is initially set, the system may use grid power to charge the batteries to 100% if solar energy is not available, this to ensure the system is ready in case of a grid outage
- During an extended outage, we recommend using only essential appliances or equipment to make sure the charge lasts as long as possible.
Time of Use
Time of use is designed to help homeowners save money by optimizing energy use based on electricity rates that vary throughout the day.
 | This mode gives homeowners greater control over the system; however, it requires a carefully planned schedule to ensure optimal performance. If not set up correctly, the system may not function as expected. |
How it works:
- Peak Hours (Expensive Electricity)
- The system discharges stored battery power to power your home, avoiding costly grid electricity.
- If solar is available, it is used first before tapping into battery storage.
- Off-Peak Hours (Cheaper Electricity)
- The system charges the batteries using either solar energy or lower-cost grid electricity.
- If needed, home appliances can run on grid power since rates are lower.
- Solar Integration
- During the day, solar energy is used to power the home and charge the batteries.
- Any excess energy is stored for later use instead of being exported to the grid (unless net metering is beneficial).
Benefits of TOU Mode:
- ️ Reduces Electricity Costs – Avoids using expensive electricity during peak hours.
- ️ Maximizes Battery Value – Uses stored energy strategically to optimize savings.
- ️ Solar – Ensures solar energy is used efficiently for self-consumption and peak-time savings.
Example of TOU Optimization:
Peak (4 PM – 9 PM) → Use battery power instead of expensive grid energy.
Off-Peak (9 PM – 6 AM) → Charge batteries from the grid (if solar isn’t available).
Midday (10 AM – 3 PM) → Use solar power for home + charge batteries.
 | All of these operating modes only run when the system is on grid. During an outage, the system will behave the SAME WAY regardless of the operating mode selected, with the only noticeable difference being that when the batteries are at 99-100% at the time of outage, the system has to wait until it drops below 90% before reactivating solar in order to have a buffer for excess generation. |