Battery Tips - Xantrex PRO XM 1000 Owner's Manual

Battery Tips

Explosive/
Corrosive
Gases
Temperature
Sensitivity
Discharged
Batteries
Electrolyte
Level
975-0263-01-01
WARNING
Review "Precautions When Working With Batteries" on page vii before you
work with the batteries in your system.
Lead-acid batteries may emit hydrogen gases, oxygen, and sulfuric acid
fumes when recharging. To reduce the risk of explosion:
• Vent the battery compartment to prevent the accumulation of gases.
• Do not install electronic or electrical equipment in the battery
compartment.
• Do not smoke or use an open flame when working around batteries.
The capacity of lead-acid batteries is temperature sensitive. Battery
capacity is rated at 77 ºF (25 ºC). At 0 ºF (–20 ºC), the Ah capacity is
about half the rated capacity. You should consider temperature when
designing your system.
• Low Temperatures If extremely low temperatures are expected
where the inverter is going to be located, you should consider a
heated equipment room. If the system is located in an unheated space,
an insulated battery enclosure is recommended.
• High Temperatures The batteries should also be protected from high
temperatures. These can be caused by high ambient temperatures,
solar heating of the battery enclosure, or heat released by a nearby
engine or generator. High battery temperatures shorten battery life
and therefore you should ventilate the enclosure and use shade and
insulation as appropriate.
Do not leave batteries in a discharged state for more than a day or two.
They will undergo a chemical process (sulfation) that can permanently
damage the battery. As well, batteries self-discharge over a period of three
to six months, and they should be recharged periodically even if they are
not being used.
If your batteries are not the "maintenance-free" type, check the electrolyte
level at least once a month. Excessive fluid loss is a sign of overcharging.
Replenish the electrolyte using only distilled water.
Battery Tips
B–7