Xantrex Technology 1000 manual Battery Tips

Battery Tips

Battery Tips

WARNING

Review “Precautions When Working With Batteries” on page vii before you work with the batteries in your system.

Explosive/

Corrosive

Gases

Lead-acid batteries may emit hydrogen gases, oxygen, and sulfuric acid fumes when recharging. To reduce the risk of explosion:

•Vent the battery compartment to prevent the accumulation of gases.

•Do not install electronic or electrical equipment in the battery compartment.

	• Do not smoke or use an open flame when working around batteries.
Temperature	The capacity of lead-acid batteries is temperature sensitive. Battery
Sensitivity	capacity is rated at 77 ºF (25 ºC). At 0 ºF (–20 ºC), the Ah capacity is
	about half the rated capacity. You should consider temperature when
	designing your system.
	• Low Temperatures If extremely low temperatures are expected
	where the inverter is going to be located, you should consider a
	heated equipment room. If the system is located in an unheated space,
	an insulated battery enclosure is recommended.
	• High Temperatures The batteries should also be protected from high
	temperatures. These can be caused by high ambient temperatures,
	solar heating of the battery enclosure, or heat released by a nearby
	engine or generator. High battery temperatures shorten battery life
	and therefore you should ventilate the enclosure and use shade and
	insulation as appropriate.
Discharged	Do not leave batteries in a discharged state for more than a day or two.
Batteries	They will undergo a chemical process (sulfation) that can permanently
	damage the battery. As well, batteries self-discharge over a period of three
	to six months, and they should be recharged periodically even if they are
	not being used.
Electrolyte	If your batteries are not the “maintenance-free” type, check the electrolyte
Level	level at least once a month. Excessive fluid loss is a sign of overcharging.
	Replenish the electrolyte using only distilled water.

975-0127-01-01 B–7