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Solar batteries are an essential addition to any solar power system, storing excess energy for use when it's most needed. While solar batteries are durable, and capable of withstanding the unpredictable British weather, maintenance is a requirement if you want them to remain efficient for a long time.
In this guide, we'll walk you through essential tips to extend the life of your solar battery setup, from regular models to the Tesla Powerwall 3. We'll also brief you on the difference between summertime maintenance and wintertime maintenance.
Types of Solar Battery
Before we get into the maintenance tips, it's important to recognise what batteries are for and the different types of solar battery available to you. Having a solar battery installation will allow you to conserve extra energy generated by your solar panels during peak hours. You can then use this energy during off-peak times, such as cloudy days, at night, or during power outages.
There are three main types of solar battery, each requiring different levels of maintenance. These are:
Lead-acid batteries: This is the most traditional form of solar battery, and also the cheapest. The downside? It's less durable than the others and requires more frequent maintenance.
Lithium-ion batteries: Lithium-ion batteries are becoming increasingly common in residential solar panel systems. They have a long lifespan, retain efficiency for a long time, and don't require a great deal of maintenance. However, they tend to be more expensive than other options.
Flow batteries: Flow batteries are known for their extremely long lifespans and ability to discharge a very high percentage of their stored electricity without damage. They aren't commonly seen in residential solar systems because of their size and upkeep. However, they present a good option for commercial solar panel installations.
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Solar Battery Maintenance Tips
1. Keep your batteries clean
As with any equipment left outside, your solar batteries will be vulnerable to dust and dirt accumulation. If dirt is left on the battery casing, it can block its air vents. This will cause the battery to run hotter, shortening its lifespan.
How to clean solar batteries
1. Turn the system off: To eliminate the risk of electrocution, always turn your battery's power off before you begin cleaning.
2. Use a damp cloth: With a damp, not soaking, cloth, wipe the battery. Use water to moisten the cloth rather than corrosive chemicals.
3. Check the terminals: Give your battery's terminals a quick look for any dirt. If you see dirt or corrosion, use a solution of baking soda and water to clean it off.
2. Keep the system well-ventilated
Your battery will need to be stored in a well-ventilated area that remains as cool as possible. As we touched on, an overheating solar battery will ultimately end up having a shorter lifespan. It will also become a fire hazard, posing a serious safety risk.
How to check your battery storage ventilation
1. Make sure the battery's vents aren't blocked: Your battery might be struggling with ventilation due to a build up of dirt. It may also be obstructed by another object, preventing it from completely dissipating its heat.
2. Avoid direct sunlight: Make sure that your solar battery is kept out of the way of direct sunlight. This is a common cause of solar battery overheating. You may need to call up a professional to move your battery for you to ensure complete safety and prevention of damage to the system.
3. Monitor performance
Keeping regular tabs on your solar battery performance will help you to detect problems before they transition into becoming major issues. This will hopefully prevent you from having to replace your entire system prematurely, which will be a very costly hassle.
How to check you battery storage system for issues
1. Check voltage levels: Keep a regular account of your solar battery's voltage levels to make sure they remain consistent and within the manufacturer's recommended range. You can do this by using a multimeter.
2. Inspect for damage: Look for signs of physical damage, such as cracks or fluid leaks. If you see any of these, get in touch with a solar battery professional.
Seasonal Solar Battery Maintenance
The seasons, most notably summer and winter, will affect how your solar battery operates. As a result, you'll have to switch up the way you maintain your battery system.
Summer Maintenance
The main threat to your solar battery in summer is overheating. High temperatures have a significant effect on your battery's performance and its overall long-term durability.
Lead-acid batteries are particularly at risk, as the electrolyte system is often made up of sulphuric acid diluted in water. If the battery becomes too hot. it will cause the water to evaporate. Lead-acid batteries also require occasional refilling with distilled water, as when the battery discharges and charges, some water gets converted into hydrogen and oxygen.
You'll also have to make sure your battery is as cool as possible and not sitting in direct sunlight. Make sure all the vents are unobstructed to prevent the battery from overheating.
Winter Maintenance
Cold temperatures will also have an effect on the efficiency of your solar power battery storage system. To keep your battery warm enough, consider these options:
+ Insulated battery box
+ Low-wattage heating pad
+ Thermal blanket
Remember, you must always leave space for air to escape your solar battery. Never leave it fully enclosed.
Another winter maintenance tip is to use the battery-stored energy frequently. This will prevent the batteries from freezing, especially in extremely cold temperatures.
When to Call a Solar Battery Professional
Some maintenance just shouldn't be performed by untrained individuals. For example, you should get in touch with your solar battery installer if it begins to make strange noises. Significant drops in performance will also require the aid of a professional, who will be able to diagnose the issue very quickly. Leave it too long, and you'll be without your battery, resulting in wasted energy and leaving you dependent on the grid once again.
You should also consult with a professional if your battery has received physical damage to any of its parts. This could result in the battery not working entirely, or cause it to become a potential fire hazard.
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EPC Improvements | Leaders in Solar Battery Maintenance | Essex
Installing and maintaining a solar battery has never been easier, with EPC Improvements. Our MCS Certified experts are always on hand to make sure that your battery is running smoothly, and keeping your home powered.
Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you.