Inverters are one of the most important parts of solar energy systems. They convert DC power into AC power, allowing you to use it anywhere there is electricity. Inverters are useful for charging batteries and other devices that require a constant supply of direct current (DC).
However, inverters require regular maintenance to ensure they continue working properly. Follow these inverter battery maintenance tips to keep your inverter running smoothly.
1. Make sure the battery is fully charged
The most common cause of inverter failure is a low battery voltage. This usually occurs because the battery has been discharged too far. To prevent this problem, you must make sure that the battery is completely charged before starting the inverters. If the battery is not fully charged, it could overheat and fail prematurely.
Before you do anything else, make sure the battery is completely full. If it isn’t, you’ll waste money charging it again. To check the charge level, plug the inverter into an outlet and look at the display. You want the reading to be around 80%.
2. Replace the filter regularly
The filter inside the inverter collects dust and debris. Over time, this can cause problems like clogged airflow and overheating. When the filter gets dirty, simply replace it. This will improve efficiency and extend the life of the unit.
3. Change out the inverter’s fuse every three years
If you’ve had your inverter for over 3 years, it’s probably time to change the fuse. Fuses protect the system against overloads and surges. Changing out the fuse ensures that the inverter continues to perform safely.
4. Clean the Terminals
The most important thing you can do to extend the life of your battery pack is clean it regularly. This includes cleaning out the terminals. Dust buildup can reduce panel efficiency. Use a soft brush to clean off dirt and debris.
5. Check the Electrical Connections
Look for loose wires and damaged connectors. Wires that look frayed could indicate a problem with the electrical connection. Make sure the mounts are secure and firmly attached. If they’re not, they might cause damage over time.
6. Do Not Overload the Battery
Don’t overload the circuit breaker. Overloading the breaker causes unnecessary wear and tear on the equipment. If you use too much power, the battery will start to heat up. This causes the electrolyte inside the battery to expand and eventually leak out. Overcharging can damage the battery, causing it to fail prematurely.
7. Properly Store the Battery
When storing the battery, make sure to store it horizontally. This allows air circulation around the battery, preventing overheating. Do not expose the battery to extreme temperatures. Extreme temperatures can cause the electrolyte inside the battery to evaporate. When this happens, the battery becomes weak and may stop charging. Batteries lose efficiency when exposed to high temperatures.
Store it in a dry location or in a dark area where it does not get direct sunlight. The inverter should never be stored near heat sources. Heat can cause the inverter to overheat which may result in fire.
Protect the battery from moisture as moisture can corrode the battery, causing it not to work correctly. You should also avoid exposing the inverter to rainwater. Rainwater can corrode the inverter and cause short circuits.
Keep the battery away from fire and smoke. This includes areas where there are high concentrations of natural gas, gasoline, propane, charcoal grills, candles, or open flames. If possible, place the device outside or inside a room that does not contain combustible material. Also, make sure it is not placed close to a wood stove or fireplace.
Third, always use proper safety precautions. Don’t allow children to play around the inverter. Make sure no one else touches it. And finally, never leave the inverter unattended while it is charging.
8. Schedule Regular Battery Preventive Maintenance for Your UPS Battery
You might think there is no need to check the battery unless there are signs of overheating, but sometimes a small amount of heat can damage internal components. Your UPS or inverter battery needs regular maintenance to identify potential battery issues in the early stage before it leads to severe breakdowns and downtime. Get UPS AMC services or UPS annual maintenance contract from a battery service provider that saves you on maintenance costs.
Conclusion
A well-maintained inverter battery has a longer lifetime and better performance than a poorly maintained one. It also reduces the chances of any malfunctioning. Follow the above-mentioned easy inverter batter maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of the device. So, if you have a long-term plan to buy a new inverter, then you should take care of its battery first.
Frequently Asked Questions on Inverter Battery Maintenance Tips
How do I maintain an inverter battery?
Follow simple inverter battery maintenance tips like regularly cleaning the terminals, charging them completely but do not overcharge, checking the electrical connections, re-fill the distilled water at regular intervals and investing in a UPS annual maintenance contract with a battery maintenance service provider.
What should I do if my inverter battery is inflammable?
Keep the Batteries Away from Inflammable Objects: To avoid disasters and fire mishaps, it is advisable to keep the inverter battery away from inflammable objects.
What should I do if my battery is not working properly?
If you find dirt, try to clean it with a dry cloth. Switch off the battery and clean it. Switch it on to check if it’s working properly. If this does not solve the issue, contact a battery service technician who can replace the battery. To ensure your battery functions well fr longer period, follow inverter battery maintenance tips.