To help Base ensure your home meets the electrical and spacing requirements for a backup system installation, after you sign up we will send you a link to submit a few key photos to understand your home's setup.
Each battery is roughly the size of an AC unit and needs 3 feet of clearance from windows, doors, vents, AC units, other batteries, and obstructions.
Base Power's engineering and installation teams require these photos to verify compliance with electrical code standards and assess the area for compatibility with the installation. Proper submission helps avoid delays by addressing potential obstructions like wood piles or other blockages beforehand.
Clear, well-framed photos that follow the directions help us find a code-compliant spot without needing more photos from you. Take photos that show as much of your space as possible so we can find creative, compliant solutions.
Required Photos:
Electric meter: The circular device located on the exterior of your home. Ensure the photo is zoomed in enough for the meter number in the red box to be legible.
Area surrounding your meter: From as far back as possible (at least 10 steps), take a photo of the wall surrounding your meter. The more zoomed out the better, so we can see how much space is around your meter.
Area to the right of your meter: From at least 10 steps away from your meter, take a photo of the wall and area to the right. We are looking for space for the battery system. Each battery is 3 feet wide, and needs 3 feet of clearance on both sides.
Area to the left of your meter: From at least 10 steps away from your meter, take a photo of the wall and area to the right. We are looking for space for the battery system. Each battery is 3 feet wide, and needs 3 feet of clearance on both sides.
Wall adjacent to the wall with the meter: The picture should display this entire side of the house from corner to corner. The more zoomed out, the better, so we can see how much space is in front of the wall. We are looking for space for the battery system around the closest corner.
Area behind the fence (if applicable): If there's a fence on your wall with the meter, take a photo of the full area behind the fence. The picture should display this entire side of the house from corner to corner. The more zoomed out, the better, so we can see how much space is in front of the wall. We are looking for space for the battery system behind the fence.
A/C unit labels: Ensure the LRA number on each A/C unit’s label is legible. If you have multiple units, include a photo of each label.
Main breaker box: Usually located outside next to your meter or in your garage.
Main disconnect switch: We need to see the amperage number - usually 125, 150, or 200 - on your main switch. It may be small or faded, so get a clear, zoomed-in, focused shot. The switch is either inside your main breaker box or outside next to your meter.
Area surrounding the main breaker box (if not already captured): We need to see your main breaker box's location (i.e. outside next to your meter, in the garage, or in a closet). The more zoomed out, the better.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Obstructed Viewing Areas:
Clear any wood piles or other obstructions before taking photos as they block essential views for the installation team.
Inability to Open the Meter Box:
Ensure you open the black lid of the meter box to capture the required components. If this step is missed, the review process may face delays.
The Base engineering team will review your photos and reach out within 2 days if any additional information is needed.
Planning for Installation:
The battery system is always installed outside near the electric meter. Batteries can't be installed indoors or in garages, and we can't run conduit underground or through attics.
If you have a preferred spot in mind, you must be home during installation to discuss options with the crew. While they must follow electrical and spacing code requirements, they’re usually able to accommodate slight adjustments within code.
Here's an example of a single 25 kWh battery.
Additional Tips
Take photos during daytime for better visibility.
Take wide angled photos.
Double-check for obstructions before submitting your photos.
