Battery Tips

Battery Tips

WARNING

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

Explosive/Corrosive Gases Lead-acid batteries may emit hydrogen, 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 Sensitivity The capacity of lead-acid batteries is temperature sensitive. Battery capacity is rated at 77º F (25º C). At 0º F (–20º C), the Ah capacity is about half the rated capacity. Temperature should be considered when you design 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 temperature results in short battery life and should be avoided by ventilating the enclosure and reducing the external heat source by shading and insulation.

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