Power cuts are a frequent phenomena in India. Even metro cities aren’t spared the trouble and as such inverters are quickly becoming one of the most essential home appliances.
Modern-day inverter batteries are quite powerful, and unlike older models, you can even keep AC units and computers running for quite some time. However, it’s really important that you maintain your inverter battery in the best-possible condition to make sure that you aren’t left in the dark.
Home inverters come with two types of batteries—deep cycle batteries and tall tubular batteries. Here are some tips to maintain both kinds.
Tall Tubular Battery
1. Keep The Area Ventilated
Make sure the area your inverter is installed in, is properly ventilated. Inverter batteries, like any other battery, heat up while charging. Keeping them in an airy place will reduce heat build-up to some extent. This, also means that you’ll have to replenish the inverter-water, less often.
2. Use Regularly
It’s important to use the inverter on a regular basis. If you’re blessed with a period with no or barely any power cuts, ensure to discharge the battery once a month and then recharge it again to help maintain longevity.
3. Maintain Water Levels
Get a professional to check the battery’s water level every two months. It should be maintained well between the maximum and minimum levels. If you fail to top it up with only distilled water, you can expect to shell out money for new batteries, pretty soon.
Tap or rain water contains impurities that will reduce the longevity of the battery.
4. Don’t Let It Gather Dust
The surface of the battery should be free of dust—use a clean piece of cloth to clean it on a regular basis. It’s also important to keep the terminals of the battery rust-free.
If you notice that the terminals are corroding, make a solution of hot water and baking soda and pour it over the inverter terminals. Then, using a toothbrush, gently clean them to remove the rust. Once the terminals are rust-free and have dried out, apply petroleum jelly to the nuts and bolts to prevent further rusting.
Rust is terrible for your inverter’s performance. It interferes with the flow of current to and from battery. This results in slower battery charging and ultimately, reduced battery life.
Vents around the battery should be dust-free. Be careful about this, as blocked vents lead to accumulation of hydrogen, which may cause the battery to burst.
Deep Cycle Battery
1. Avoid Sulfation
When it comes to deep cycle batteries, sulfation can cause damage over time. Charging the battery slowly, occasionally, can prevent sulfation. Also, make sure to keep the battery completely charged after every use.
Batteries that are not used frequently are susceptible to sulfation. These batteries lose approximately 1% charge each day due to self-discharge. An unused battery accumulates damage over time due to sulfation if this self-discharge is not countered.
2. Check The Electrolyte Level
Leaving inverter chargers attached for long periods of time can destroy inverter battery. The heat generated this way decreases the water level in the inverter.
Be sure to check the electrolyte level regularly and add distilled water when required. Also, to ensure longer battery life, avoid using trickle chargers.
Maintaining an inverter is not rocket science, and a little effort on a regular basis is all that’s required. This will ensure that your inverter performs fine and keeps your home lit and comfortable. However, make sure to invest in the right one. The market is teeming with a variety of inverter models as well as brands, and all you need to do is some research before you purchase one.