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,
*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.