Equalization
System
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Greetings:
Is it absolutely necessary to equalize batteries?
If the answer is yes, How often? For how long?
Should I remove the battery caps during equalization?
My system: Six kyoceras 130, four Exide 6 volts, 210 amp., mx60, Exceltech 1100.
Batteries were installed five or six months ago.
Is it absolutely necessary to equalize batteries?
If the answer is yes, How often? For how long?
Should I remove the battery caps during equalization?
My system: Six kyoceras 130, four Exide 6 volts, 210 amp., mx60, Exceltech 1100.
Batteries were installed five or six months ago.
Comments
Flooded cell only, YES
at least monthly
2 hours.
leave caps on. There will be LOTs of gassing/bubbling, and the caps vent the gas, and retain the acid droplets. ( Unless you have the catalyst caps, which warn you to remove at EQ time)
Most 3 or 4 stage chargers have a 30 day counter in them, and run an EQ cycle automatically
Be sure you have enough water to cover the tops of the plates. (but don't completely top off, as they equalize, they warm up, and water expands as it warms.)
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MIKE90045:
I forgot a VERY IMPORTANT question:
Should I disconnect my inverter (and obviously shut down the system) during equalization?
Or will the system go on working as usual?
it may be better to shut down the inverter or at least have a very small draw on it to prevent the eq charge from being lowered in its voltage. this loading does draw down on voltages and could prevent a proper eq charge from taking place. it may be more worthwhile shutting it down as these voltages tend to be on the high side and if temp compensation is used when batteries are cold it could approach parts values limits in the inverter and even other equipment that is connected directly from the battery at the time.
Niel makes a good point about making sure your PV array and controller can supply enough current to both EQ the batteries and run the inverter and its loads. However, there's no need to disconnect or turn off the inverter to protect it from the high EQ voltage. The 12 V Exeltech inverter can handle an input voltage of up to 16.5 VDC +/- 3%. See Specs. Other 12 VDC loads (i.e., halogen lamps) might be sensitive to high DC voltage and may have to be disconnected during the EQ stage.
HTH,
Jim / crewzer