Battery maintenance
Of all the components of a solar PV system, the battery is the one that requires the most maintenance. The most commonly used batteries in PV systems are sealed lead acid batteries which the electrolyte is often in non-liquid form. These batteries do not require topping up with distilled water. Sealed batteries are not maintenance intensive and are often referred to as “maintenance free” batteries.
Batteries have a limited lifespan. As a battery ages its capacity reduces and it is unable to hold charge, as a result it cannot power appliances for the same duration as it did when new. A good indication that one battery has aged is that the charge controller disconnects the load earlier than usual and more frequently. To confirm that your battery has expired take it to the nearest battery station for testing.
Different types of batteries have different life spans. The sealed batteries have a life span ranging from 2 – 8years depending on the manufacturer or brand. Battery life is dependent on how they are discharged and maintained. The life of a battery will be significantly reduced if it is completely discharged frequently and if it stays for long periods without being charged. For solar PV systems to operate well batteries should be replaced when they age and can no longer hold charge.
Contact our technician when you are replacing your batteries.
Battery disposal
Batteries materials such as lead and sulphiric acid are harmful to the environment. If batteries are thrown away, these poisonous materials can leak into the soil and water sources. Fortunately most of the battery materials can be recycled and used in manufacturing new batteries.
The following are useful safety tips that should be followed when handling batteries:
Proper ventilation
When batteries are being charged they release an explosive gas mixture. This gas can easily be ignited by an open flame or spark from a match, candle, cigarette or electric spark. Because of this, batteries should be placed in a well-ventilated room to prevent accumulation of such gases. Ventilation should be as close to the ceiling as possible.
In addition to proper ventilation, open flames, cigarettes or sparks that can ignite the gas should never be in the vicinity of the battery. Batteries should be kept in an enclosed place to prevent children or unauthorized persons tampering with them.