Power Size

Most homeowners consider the importance of selecting the right size battery to ensure a reliable energy supply for their household needs. Whether you’re looking to power crucial appliances during an outage or aiming for a full off-grid system, understanding how to calculate your energy requirements is crucial. In this guide, you will learn how to assess your energy consumption, determine the appropriate battery capacity, and make informed decisions for your home’s energy storage needs.

Key Takeaways:

Energy Consumption: Assess your home’s total energy consumption, typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), to determine the size of the battery needed.
Battery Capacity: Select a battery with a capacity that can store enough energy for your household needs, usually measured in kWh, taking into account peak usage times.
Daily Usage Patterns: Consider daily energy usage patterns and peak periods; a larger battery may be necessary if your consumption is high during specific times.
Backup Needs: Identify how long you want the battery to provide power during outages; longer backup times will require larger battery sizes.
System Compatibility: Ensure the battery system is compatible with your current energy setup, including solar, inverters, and other equipment.

Understanding House Energy Requirements

While considering how to power your home effectively, it’s vital to understand your household’s energy needs. Each home is unique, with varying sizes, appliances, and habits that dictate energy consumption. Knowing these factors is key to determining the right battery size to meet your energy requirements and to ensure your energy storage solution can seamlessly handle your demands.

Average Energy Consumption of a Household

An average U.S. household consumes about 877 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month, translating to approximately 30 kWh per day. However, this figure can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the number of occupants, the size of your home, and the types of appliances you use. Getting a precise understanding of your household’s usage will allow you to estimate the battery capacity required effectively.

Factors Affecting Energy Needs

One major influence on your home’s energy requirements is the number of occupants. More people typically lead to higher energy consumption due to increased use of lighting, appliances, and heating or cooling systems. Additionally, the types of appliances in your home also play a critical role. For instance, energy-efficient appliances consume significantly less power than older models, impacting your total energy needs. Here are some crucial factors to consider:

Size of your home – larger spaces need more energy for heating and cooling.
Climate – extreme weather conditions can affect energy usage for climate control.
Type of heating and cooling systems – some systems consume more energy than others.
Appliance efficiency – newer, more efficient appliances will reduce overall consumption.
Occupant behavior – energy usage patterns vary with lifestyle choices.

Assume that you have a comprehensive understanding of these factors; this knowledge will enable you to make better decisions regarding energy storage and consumption in your home.

Seasonal Variability in Energy Use

On a broader scale, understanding seasonal variability in energy usage is crucial for managing your battery requirements. Different seasons have distinct energy demands; for instance, winters often require more heating, while summers lead to increased air conditioning use. Your energy consumption can fluctuate throughout the year, so it’s vital to account for these changes when planning your energy storage strategy.

It’s important to analyze your peak energy consumption months, as this will provide insight into the larger batteries you might need. Understanding this seasonal pattern can help you predict when you should charge your battery, ensuring that you meet your home’s energy requirements effectively during the most demanding times.

Energy Efficiency Measures

Energy efficiency measures can significantly impact your overall energy consumption and the size of the battery required to run your home. By making your household more energy-efficient, you decrease your reliance on stored energy, allowing you to choose a smaller battery or reduce your solar panel requirements. This approach not only saves you money but also contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle.

A combination of simple practices, such as using LED lighting, improving insulation, and utilizing programmable thermostats, can dramatically lower your energy consumption. Furthermore, you should consider conducting an energy audit to identify specific areas in your home where energy is wasted and to implement solutions tailored to your needs.

Types of Batteries for Residential Use

Despite the growing popularity of solar energy and the need for backup power, the choice of battery type for residential use can be overwhelming. It’s crucial to understand the various options available to ensure that you select the best battery type for your home’s specific energy needs. Below, we break down the types of batteries commonly used in residential applications:

Battery Type	Characteristics
Lead-Acid Batteries	Traditional, cost-effective, reliable for backup power
Lithium-Ion Batteries	Higher efficiency, longer lifespan, lightweight
Flow Batteries	Excellent for long-duration energy storage, scalable
Nickel-Cadmium Batteries	Robust performance, longer cycle life, less affected by temperature
Comparative Analysis	Critical factors to consider: cost, lifespan, efficiency

Knowing your energy needs and understanding the various types of batteries can significantly aid in making an informed decision about home energy storage options. For additional insights, you can check out the article on How Big of a Battery Backup Do I Need for My House?.

Lead-Acid Batteries

For those considering budget-friendly options, lead-acid batteries are a tried and true choice. They are widely used due to their affordability and reliable performance for short-term energy storage needs. These batteries operate on a simple chemical reaction, making them easy to maintain, and they have been popular for decades in various applications.

However, while lead-acid batteries offer lower upfront costs, their lifespan tends to be shorter compared to other technologies. You typically can expect about 3-5 years of life with regular use, and they can require maintenance, such as checking water levels. If you are looking for an economical choice for occasional power needs, lead-acid batteries could be suitable for your home.

Lithium-Ion Batteries

Any homeowner searching for advanced battery technology will find lithium-ion batteries to be a compelling option. Renowned for their high energy density, they provide incredible efficiency and longer lifespans (10-15 years) compared to traditional alternatives. This technology is especially popular in solar energy storage applications due to its rapid charge and discharge capabilities, allowing you to make the most out of your solar energy.

The lightweight design offers an added advantage for installations that require a more compact solution. Although they come with a higher upfront cost, their longevity and performance may lead to better long-term savings on energy expenses. These batteries are an ideal investment for those planning to integrate renewable energy solutions into their homes.

Types of lithium-ion batteries can vary in terms of performance and applications. With advancements in battery technology, you can find various models suited to residential needs, catering to your specific energy requirements.

Flow Batteries

Lead-acid batteries have faced stiff competition with the emergence of flow batteries, which use liquid electrolytes for energy storage. This technology allows for scalability, so you can adjust the capacity according to your energy needs easily. Flow batteries are particularly useful in larger residential or commercial setups, where extended energy supply is needed over long periods.

An added advantage of flow batteries is their minimal degradation over cycles, meaning they can last for a significantly long time while offering consistent performance. If you require a system that can handle larger demands and provide durable energy storage, flow batteries might be the solution you need.

This innovative type of battery management provides flexibility in energy production and consumption, making them an attractive choice for those seeking reliable long-term energy solutions.

Nickel-Cadmium Batteries

Lead-acid batteries may be facing competition, but nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries offer distinct advantages of their own. Known for their robustness, NiCd batteries can withstand extreme temperatures and deep discharge cycles better than other battery types. This reliability makes them suitable for homes in areas experiencing frequent power outages.

Although they are less commonly used in residential settings compared to other battery types due to their higher cost and environmental concerns regarding cadmium disposal, they can still be a valuable asset in specific applications. If your energy demand fluctuates significantly, these batteries can maintain performance regardless of substantial charge or discharge cycles.

Batteries such as NiCd come with unique characteristics that could benefit particular energy storage needs. They are especially beneficial in situations where battery life and performance stability are paramount.

Comparison of Battery Types

Any comparison of battery types should consider factors such as cost, lifespan, and efficiency. Evaluating these aspects helps you determine which battery best meets your residential energy needs. Conducting thorough research can lead to more informed choices:

Cost-effectiveness of the battery
Expected lifespan of the battery
Energy density and efficiency
Maintenance requirements
Suitability for your specific power needs

The differences between these battery types may influence your final decision on which to implement in your home energy system.

Understanding the benefits and disadvantages of each battery type is crucial in making an informed investment in residential energy storage. By comparing their performances, you will be better equipped to select the right battery technology for your household.

Cost of the battery
Available space for installation
Environmental considerations
Performance over time
Availability of support and warranty

The key takeaway is to assess your unique situation before making a choice that aligns with your energy consumption needs.

For instance, if your primary concern is cost, lead-acid batteries may seem like the right option initially. However, consider the long-term savings associated with lithium-ion or flow batteries due to their longevity and efficiency. Juggling the various attributes among battery types will guide you towards the best solution for your home energy system.

Battery Type	Best Use Case
Lead-Acid	Budget-conscious, short-term backup
Lithium-Ion	Long-term, high-efficiency energy storage
Flow	Large-scale and long-duration needs
Nickel-Cadmium	Extremely reliable under varying conditions
All Types	Assessing preferences based on unique demands

Calculating Battery Size

Once again, understanding how to calculate the size of the battery needed to run your house is crucial for efficient energy management. Not only does it help you ensure you have sufficient power during outages, but it also enables you to make informed decisions regarding your energy consumption and storage needs. If you’re unsure where to start, check out this informative guide on how much of your house can you run on a battery?

Determining Total Energy Needs

For accurate calculations, you must first determine your total energy needs. This can be achieved by taking an inventory of all electric appliances, devices, and systems in your home that consume electricity. Typically, you’ll want to assess their wattage and the hours they are used each day to estimate your overall energy consumption effectively.

In order to obtain a comprehensive picture of your energy usage, be sure to include appliances like refrigerators, air conditioning systems, heating systems, and even smaller devices like computers or televisions. Once you have compiled a list, sum up their wattage to determine the total energy requirements that your battery must meet.

Daily Energy Consumption Calculation

Total energy consumption can be calculated on a daily basis by multiplying the wattage of each appliance by the hours they are used during a 24-hour period. For instance, if a refrigerator consumes 200 watts and runs for 24 hours, it will use 4,800 watt-hours per day. Compiling this data from all your appliances will give you a clearer understanding of your total daily energy needs.

Additionally, you should convert the total watt-hours into kilowatt-hours (kWh), as battery capacities are usually measured in kWh. This figure can provide you with an estimate of how much energy your battery should be able to store to meet daily demand without frequent recharging.

Energy efficiency plays a significant role in calculating your battery size. Implementing energy-saving appliances can help reduce your daily consumption, enabling you to select a smaller battery that still meets your needs effectively.

Battery Depth of Discharge (DoD)

Consumption of battery power is also influenced by the battery depth of discharge (DoD). This term refers to the percentage of the battery’s energy capacity that can be safely used before it is recharged. For instance, a lithium-ion battery may have a DoD of around 80-90%, while a lead-acid battery might only allow for a 50% DoD. Thus, it’s crucial to differentiate the usable energy from the total capacity.

A higher DoD can allow you to use more of the stored energy without causing harm to the battery, which means you won’t need as large of a battery to fulfill your energy needs. Nevertheless, be sure to consult the manufacturer’s specifications for your chosen battery type to ensure safe and effective usage.

Reserve Capacity Considerations

With battery calculations, it is wise to factor in reserve capacity. This includes additional battery strength that ensures you have power readily available in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as an extended outage or sudden increases in energy demands. A common recommendation is to add about 10-20% to your calculated usage to account for these uncertainties.

By prioritizing reserve capacity, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that your energy supply is not just adequate but also robust enough to handle unexpected situations without jeopardizing the effectiveness of your battery system.

Considerations for reserve capacity also include your lifestyle and energy habits. If you frequently experience power outages or have varying energy needs, including this buffer in your calculations will enhance your energy security.

Battery Configuration Options

Not all battery configurations are suitable for every household; understanding the different types is crucial for optimizing energy storage. Whether you’re looking to power a small cabin or an entire home, the battery configuration you choose will greatly impact your system’s efficiency and performance. If you want to probe deeper into the specifics of sizing a battery bank for your needs, consider checking out this resource on Calculating Battery Bank Needs/Size.

Standalone Battery Systems

Battery systems can be set up either as standalone units or integrated into existing setups, depending on your energy requirements. A standalone battery system is entirely off the grid, meaning that it is solely powered by renewable energy sources, like solar panels or wind turbines. Such systems are commonly used in remote locations where connecting to the traditional utility grid isn’t feasible or cost-effective.

These systems provide the advantage of complete energy independence, but you should carefully assess your daily usage to ensure that your battery setup can adequately meet your household’s needs. Proper sizing and configuration are important to avoid issues related to underperformance or overcapacity.

Grid-Tied Battery Systems

With a grid-tied battery system, you maintain a connection to the utility grid, allowing you to draw on public power sources during times of low energy production or when your battery bank is depleted. These systems generally provide the best of both worlds: reduced electric bills while ensuring reliable energy supply. They can augment your existing energy systems, allowing you to store excess energy generated from your solar panels and potentially even sell back surplus power to the grid.

Understanding grid-tied systems can help you optimize your energy production while minimizing wastage. They are particularly advantageous in regions with net metering, enabling homeowners to take full advantage of fluctuating energy prices throughout the day.

Off-Grid Solutions

Configuration can be complex in off-grid systems, as your energy consumption patterns will dictate the size, type, and quantity of batteries you require. Off-grid solutions work by storing energy generated from renewable sources—often solar panels—before it’s used by your household. This allows you to live completely independently from the traditional power grid, making it ideal for isolated locations or those aiming for a zero-carbon lifestyle.

It is important to design your off-grid system for peak usage times and to consider factors such as seasonal changes in production. Your battery capacity should not only meet your day-to-day needs but also store enough energy for periods of low generation, ensuring reliability throughout the year.

Hybrid Systems

For many households, a hybrid system combines features from both off-grid and grid-tied setups, potentially offering enhanced flexibility. Hybrid configurations allow you to utilize energy from the grid while still storing energy from renewable sources. This creates a seamless flow of power depending on the situation; you can rely on the grid during high-demand, low-generation periods while still benefiting from your solar or wind energy systems during optimal production times.

Solutions involving hybrid systems can be tailored to fit your unique energy needs and economic goals. By leveraging both stored energy and grid access, you can minimize energy costs and broaden your options for sustainable living. Moreover, the advancements in battery technologies and smart home solutions continue to enhance the efficiency of hybrid systems while providing users with greater monitoring and control over their energy consumption.

Installation Considerations

After determining the appropriate size of the battery for running your house, it’s important to consider various installation factors that can impact the efficiency and safety of the system. Proper installation is not merely a technical requirement; it ensures that your energy management system functions as intended and reduces the risk of failures or hazards. A well-planned installation strategy will also maximize your battery’s lifespan, ultimately providing you a reliable energy source.

Location and Safety Guidelines

One of the first factors to consider when installing your battery system is its location. You should ideally install the battery in a dry, cool space that minimizes exposure to extreme temperatures. Ensuring proper ventilation is critical, as batteries can emit gases that may be harmful if allowed to accumulate. It’s also crucial to place the system away from areas where moisture is prevalent to avoid corrosion and other issues that can negatively impact your battery’s performance.

Moreover, safety guidelines regarding electrical installations should always be followed. Placing your battery system in an area accessible for maintenance but away from high-traffic zones can help prevent accidents. You should be mindful of any local regulations regarding battery installations, as these can dictate specific requirements for fire safety or zoning compliance that need to be adhered to during and after the installation process.

Wiring and Connections

Connections to your battery system play a pivotal role in ensuring efficient energy transfer. You must use properly rated wires to connect the battery to your inverter or any other system components. The gauge of the wire is particularly important; using under-sized wires can lead to overheating and potential failure of the connections. Furthermore, consider employing stranded wire rather than solid wire for flexibility, especially in tight spaces.

Guidelines on connections also include ensuring that terminals are tightly secured and that connections are made with corrosion-resistant materials. This will reduce the likelihood of resistance build-up, which can lead to energy losses and potential hazards. Given the importance of maintaining a clear path for energy flow, it’s important to regularly check these connections during maintenance sessions.

System Configuration Setup

Safety during the configuration phase of your battery system setup cannot be overstated. You need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously to avoid mishaps. Implementing safety measures such as circuit breakers and fuses helps protect the system against overload and potential electrical fires. Additionally, it’s wise to use a qualified electrician for complex installations, ensuring that the setup complies with the local electrical codes.

The choice of configuration will also depend on your energy needs and goals. You might consider parallel connections for scalability or series connections for higher voltage requirements. Understanding how your setup fits into your overall energy strategy will enable you to manage it effectively while keeping safety and performance in mind.

Maintenance and Monitoring

Configuration management is equally vital once your system is up and running. Regular maintenance ensures that your battery continues to provide reliable power. You should monitor battery levels, check for any wear and tear on terminals and connections, and replace any components in poor condition to maintain system integrity. Keeping a log of these activities can help you identify patterns or issues before they become significant problems.

System monitoring can be enhanced by using smart technology that allows you to track performance in real-time. Advanced monitoring systems can send alerts about battery health or energy usage, empowering you to make informed decisions and optimize your energy consumption efficiently.

Cost Factors and Financial Considerations

Unlike many other home improvements, the investment in a battery system to run your house involves various cost factors and financial considerations that you should be aware of. Understanding these aspects will empower you to make a well-informed decision as you navigate the best options for your home energy needs. Here are some key points to consider:

Initial installation costs
Long-term savings potential
Return on investment (ROI)
Available incentives and rebates
Financing options

This comprehensive view will help you evaluate the financial feasibility of implementing a battery system for your home.

Initial Costs of Battery Systems

Cost is often the first concern for homeowners contemplating battery systems. The initial costs can vary significantly based on factors such as battery type, capacity, installation complexity, and the size of your home. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from a few thousand dollars to upwards of $15,000 for a complete battery storage system. This includes the hardware itself and any necessary installation work by a professional technician.

In addition to the battery unit, consider any supplementary equipment, like inverters, monitoring systems, or integration with solar panels, which can further increase your upfront investment. It is important to request detailed quotes from several providers to ensure you are getting the best deal possible.

Long-Term Savings and Return on Investment

On the other hand, you will want to look at the potential long-term savings and return on investment. While the initial costs may seem daunting, a proficient battery system can save you money on your electricity bills over the years. By storing energy during off-peak hours or when solar production is high, you can reduce reliance on the grid and take advantage of fluctuating energy rates.

Additionally, the savings on your electricity bills can help offset the initial investment, leading you to a reasonable payback period. For many homeowners, this can translate into several thousand dollars saved over the system’s lifetime. Moreover, as energy prices continue to rise, the financial benefits of owning a battery system are likely to increase, maximizing your investment.

Financial incentives like tax credits and state rebates further enhance the appeal of battery systems by qualifying you for additional cost savings. These programs aim to encourage renewable energy adoption and can significantly reduce your initial expenditure.

Incentives and Rebates for Battery Installation

Cost factors do not only pertain to the purchase of the battery system itself; incentives and rebates can play a massive role in determining your overall expenses. In many regions, local and federal governments offer generous rebates to encourage the adoption of renewable energy technologies. These incentives can reduce your initial outlay significantly, making it a more attractive proposition for you. Be sure to research whether there are incentives available in your area to help ease the financial burden of installation.

Factors influencing the availability of these incentives include the type of battery system you choose and your geographical location. Ensure you stay updated on any changes in legislation regarding energy storage to capitalize on these financial benefits when they arise.

Financing Options Available

Financial support does not stop with incentives; there are various financing options available to facilitate your battery installation. Many homeowners may not have the upfront cash readily available, making financing a crucial aspect of the decision-making process. You can explore options like personal loans, home equity loans, and even financing programs specifically designed for solar and battery systems.

Additionally, some energy companies provide their customers with financing solutions that spread the cost over time, allowing for more manageable monthly payments instead of a large initial investment. This flexibility can make it easier for you to adopt battery storage technology without compromising your financial stability.

Battery systems are becoming increasingly more popular, and as demand grows, financing options are evolving to make these systems accessible to an even broader audience. You can find a plan that aligns with your budget and energy needs through diligent research.

Future Trends in Home Battery Technology

For homeowners looking to enhance energy independence and sustainability, understanding the future trends in home battery technology is necessary. As more individuals embrace renewable energy solutions, the demand for efficient, reliable home battery systems continues to grow. Innovations in battery chemistry, technological advancements, and the integration of renewable energy sources are all shaping a new frontier in residential energy storage systems.

Innovations in Battery Chemistry

For decades, lithium-ion batteries have dominated the home energy storage market, but new innovations in battery chemistry are on the horizon. Researchers are actively exploring alternatives like solid-state batteries, which promise increased safety, improved energy density, and extended lifespan compared to their liquid counterparts. By transitioning to solid-state technology, you can expect to see batteries that charge faster and hold more energy, making them more feasible for everyday home use.

Additionally, advancements in flow batteries and sodium-ion batteries are also gaining traction. Flow batteries, in particular, offer scalability and longevity, making them a practical choice for homeowners with larger energy needs. As these innovative battery chemistries develop, you will likely find more options on the market that cater to varied energy requirements and budgets.

Technological Advancements

An necessary aspect of the future of home battery technology lies in the ongoing technological advancements. Smart battery systems equipped with artificial intelligence are becoming more prevalent, allowing for seamless integration with home energy management systems. These smart batteries can optimize energy use by predicting consumption patterns and storing energy when it is most available, like during peak solar generation times, ultimately putting more control in your hands.

Understanding these advancements will empower you to make informed choices about your home energy storage systems. This knowledge will guide you toward selecting a product that not only meets your current energy needs but is also adaptable to changes in energy consumption and generation technologies in the future.

Impact of Renewable Energy Integration

Advancements in home battery technology are critically tied to the integration of renewable energy sources. As solar panels and wind turbines become more common, homeowners are increasingly faced with the challenge of balancing energy production with consumption. Home batteries play a crucial role in this equation, allowing you to store excess energy generated during the day for use when demand peaks or generation drops. This capability also helps reduce reliance on the grid, leading to greater energy independence.

Innovations in battery technology make it easier than ever for you to harness the full potential of renewable energy sources. With efficient storage solutions that minimize energy loss when transitioning from generation to storage, you can maximize the utility of your renewable energy systems while contributing to a sustainable energy future.

Predictions for the Future of Home Energy Storage

Energy storage has made significant strides in innovation and functionality, and the future looks even brighter. Industry experts predict that battery technology will continue to evolve, leading to lower costs, higher capacities, and improved efficiency. As you look to invest in home energy storage, prepare for options that support a more sustainable lifestyle while saving money in the long run.

Future developments may even introduce batteries that adapt to household energy demands autonomously, revolutionizing the way you manage energy use at home. Energy management systems equipped with advanced algorithms will likely analyze your consumption patterns and adjust battery usage accordingly, ultimately maximizing your energy efficiency.

Summing Up

With these considerations, choosing the right battery size to run your house largely depends on your energy consumption, usage patterns, and backup needs. It is vital to calculate your average daily usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh) and consider peak demands on your system. By understanding how much energy you consume during different times of the day, you can select a battery capacity that fulfills your requirements while providing some buffer for unforeseen circumstances such as power outages. Remember to factor in the efficiency of your battery system and potential energy losses in your calculations.

Additionally, you may want to think about the future—whether you plan to expand your energy needs with increased appliances or the addition of renewable energy sources like solar panels. In this case, opting for a slightly larger battery than your current estimates may offer peace of mind. By paying attention to these critical aspects, you can ensure that your battery choice effectively supports your home’s energy needs, enhances your energy independence, and contributes to long-term savings.

FAQ

Q: What size battery do I need to run a house?

A: The size battery needed to run a house depends on several factors, including the total energy consumption of your home, the number of appliances you wish to power, and how long you want to run them on battery. Typically, a battery system’s capacity is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). On average, a small home might require a battery with a capacity of 10 kWh for imperative appliances, while larger homes or those with more energy demands might need 20 to 30 kWh or more.

Q: How do I calculate my home’s energy needs for battery storage?

A: To calculate your home’s energy needs, start by looking at your monthly utility bill to find your average daily energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Break this down by assessing the wattage of all appliances you plan to use and their daily usage time. Multiply the wattage of each appliance by the hours it runs to get the total energy needed. This will give you a clearer picture of how much battery storage you will require.

Q: Can I run my entire house on a battery?

A: Running your entire house on battery power is possible but requires a significant investment in battery capacity. Most residential battery systems are designed for partial home backup or to provide power during peak usage times or outages. To run an entire house continuously, you would often need a larger battery system or a combination of batteries and a generator to ensure you have sufficient power for all appliances and systems in your home.

Q: What type of battery is best for home use?

A: The best type of battery for home use typically includes lithium-ion batteries, lead-acid batteries, or newer technologies like saltwater batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are most popular due to their high energy density, long lifespan, and efficiency. Lead-acid batteries are more affordable but have a shorter lifespan and lower energy density. The choice depends on your budget, energy needs, and how long you plan to use the battery system.

Q: How long do batteries for home energy storage last?

A: The lifespan of batteries used for home energy storage can vary significantly based on the type of battery and usage patterns. Lithium-ion batteries generally have a lifespan of about 10 to 15 years, with many offering warranties for 10 years or more. Lead-acid batteries usually last about 3 to 5 years. Proper maintenance and regular monitoring can help maximize battery life, regardless of the type you choose.