BatterY Types
Batteries are an integral part of any power backup system and are used in the Off-Grid and Hybrid Inverter installations. There are a number of different battery types. Normal car batteries are designed to provide a large current for a very short period of time and are not designed to be regularly discharged y more than 25% of their capacity. This makes them a “no-go” as far as Inverter backup options are concerned.
Flooded lead acid (FLA)
These are the cheaper form of battery but require regular maintenance. These batteries are made up of cells submerged in a sulfuric acid solution and require adding distilled water every month as well as providing adequate ventilation due to their expulsion of hydrogen and oxygen as a result of the lead plates inside the battery reacting with the acid. Average life-span between 5-7 years if managed well.
Sealed lead acid (SLA)
These batteries are an upgrade to the FLA type and require no maintenance at all. They are however more expensive but are preferred where large amounts of storage are required, even though their lifespan is shorter than that of FLA batteries (3-5 years). They also charge faster with lower voltage required. THE AGM( Absorbent Glass Mat) is able to handle higher operating temperatures and also lower self discharge during idle.
Lithium Ion
These are the most efficient batteries in the solar environment but are a lot more expensive. They are lighter and smaller in size in relation to their capacity offered. These are perfect where there are space restrictions and don’t produce as much heat as Lead Acid Cells. They produce 5000-7000 cycles and have a lifespan of between 10-20 years, but unfortunately come at a price.These are also totally maintenance free.