In any home solution for power back up, batteries are the ones that require maximum care. With proper care and timely maintenance of the battery, we can ensure not only longer life of the battery, but also higher backup. In addition, well maintained battery will also save you from the hassle of the system malfunctioning in the middle of a hot summer night!. Here are a few tips in ensuring that your system is well maintained:
- First and fore most, try to purchase batteries from well known brands. A lot of electricians will try to sell local made batteries. However, the quality of those batteries would be inconsistent at best.
- One of the foremost battery maintenance tips is to ensure that the terminals are kept clean and tight.
- The electrolyte levels must always be kept above the minimum levels. While filling up the electrolyte levels, use only distilled water.
- About 6 times in a year, the inverter battery must be equalized. This involves controlled overcharge by knocking down the deposits on the battery. This will extend the life of the battery.
- The battery tops can be cleaned with rags dipped in a solution of baking soda in water. But this cleaning solution must not be allowed to enter into the batteries through the vent holes in the caps.
- Regularly check the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion. It is indicated by a green colored layer over it.
While handling the battery, wear safety goggles and rubber gloves for self-protection.
Some local inverter service centres will offer annual maintenance contracts (AMCs) on inverters and batteries. They charge about 1500 Rs. per annum and in my view its a great investment to ensure that you will have a hassle free system. This is especially useful if you are a busy bee or not the types that wants to keep a tab on the nitty gritty of running a house hold. Some of the things that you can expect from a professional are:
- Charging cutout is between 13.9 V and 14.2 V depending on the battery
- Specific Gravity is between 1190 - 1210
- No salt or lead sulphate is deposited on terminals
- Battery is kept clean
- Apply jelly on terminals
