Holiday Navigator 2003 Owner's Manual page 322

Electrical Systems - House
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030815
Temperature Correction Chart.
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Temperature and recent battery activity (charging or discharging) affect the
hydrometer readings. It is best to check the battery when it has been "at rest"
for at least three hours, although readings taken at other times will give a
"ballpark" figure. When using the hydrometer, draw the electrolyte solution up
into the tube. Allow the hydrometer to attain the same temperature as the
electrolyte solution. Note the reading for that cell. Complete the same test for
the rest of the cells on that battery bank.
The hydrometer is calibrated at 80° F. Temperature affects the hydrometer
readings. The higher the electrolyte temperature, the higher the specific gravity
reading. The lower the temperature, the lower the specific gravity reading. Add
or subtract four points for each 10° variance from the 80° F chart. Readings
between cells should not vary more than 50 points.
If one cell in a particular battery bank being tested is at a 50% state of
charge while the others are indicating a full charge, charge only that battery to
see if the low cell will come up. At the same time, do not over charge the
"healthy" cells.
If the low cell does not come up after charging, this battery can damage the
rest of the battery bank and should be replaced. An accurate digital volt meter
+ - .5% will also give an indicator of the battery's state of charge.
Another test that can be performed is to place a specific load on the battery
for a predetermined length of time equal to that particular battery's rating. This
machine is usually an adjustable carbon pile that can vary the load being
applied to the battery(s) while monitoring voltage to see if they will perform to
their specific rated capacities.
NOTE: See the chart for temperature compensation. Liquid levels
should be even between the cells of the battery being tested as it will
affect the accuracy of the test.
WARNING: Sulfuric acid in the batteries can cause severe injury or
death. Sulfuric acid can cause permanent damage to eyes, burn skin
and eat holes in clothing. Always wear splash-proof safety goggles
when working around the battery. If the battery electrolyte is
splashed in the eyes, or on skin, immediately flush the affected area
for 15 minutes with large quantities of clean water. In case of eye
contact, seek immediate medical aid. Never add acid to a battery
once the battery has been placed in service. Doing so may result in
hazardous splattering of electrolyte.
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