Many customers choose to set up Renewable Energy systems in properties, remote or otherwise, for seasonal or periodic use.  As with all systems, the battery bank used to store this power does require ongoing maintenance and consideration to maintain good health and ensure a loss of capacity or battery damage does not occur.


When deep cycle lead-acid batteries are not used for extended periods of time customers should consider the following options: 

        a) maintaining the system online to keep the cells at a full charge.

or 


        b) disconnecting the battery bank and topping them up with a refresher charge every 60 days to prevent full discharge            and/or freezing.


MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE:


Flooded models: When returning for seasonal use, electrolyte levels should be checked and distilled water added as necessary.  In colder climates, keep in mind that snow removal from solar panels may also be necessary to maintain proper charging.  Live systems unable to generate power will quickly discharge the battery bank.


Note:  discharged batteries are prone to freezing in cold temperatures.  Damage to battery cases/cells is not valid for replacement under warranty.  By maintaining a charge on all cells the specific gravity of the electrolyte will prevent freezing-related damage or discharge under normal conditions.  See Battery Storage for more information,


In addition to preparations for extended storage, Rolls Battery recommends conditioning the battery bank in advance of use. 
** Test specific gravity of each cell in the battery bank regularly (after completing charge) and perform corrective Equalizations when these show signs of charge imbalance and/or sulfation as necessary.  Performing a corrective Equalization when not required will overcharge, burning oxide paste off the plates and reducing the capacity and life of the battery. **

*Seasonal Systems: Typically, a corrective Equalizations should be completed at minimum 2 times per year, performed prior to and following each off-season to remove any accumulated sulfation and to balance charge across the battery bank.


Seasonal systems: three to four (3-4) weeks before resuming use of the system you may begin to lightly cycle the batteries over a one week period as outlined below.  End this process with a corrective Equalization to remove accumulated sulfation and balance the charge.  Where multiple strings of batteries are used, and where an alternate charge source (ex. generator) may not be adequate to properly equalize a larger battery bank all at once, it may be necessary and most effective to run the corrective Equalization on each series string of batteries individually.  Once completed, the strings may be reconnected to the system prior to cycling.  This will begin to remove any build-up of sulfation which has accumulated while resting in a Float charge for extended periods.  Test specific gravity and follow the corrective Equalization procedure as outlined in Rolls Battery User Manual.

Day 1 Run Full Absorption cycle
Day 2 Rest (place a small load on the bank to begin discharge)
Day 3 Rest
Day 4 Full Absorption cycle 
Day 5 Rest
Day 6 Rest
Day 7 Full Absorption cycle, followed by a corrective Equalization*