How to Check the Health of an Inverter Battery

 

Inverters and inverter batteries are used in various applications to keep the power running when there are power issues like an outage. When the inverter battery stops performing the way it should, it drains the device’s power. It may also unnecessarily harm your device. So, knowing that your inverter battery is performing correctly is paramount. That way, you can determine if there is a fault in it and take the necessary steps to correct it. 

Thus, periodically checking the health of the battery is essential, and here is how to do it. There are different types of inverter battery, but the method for checking their health primarily consists of these eight steps. 

1. Charge the Battery Fully

First, charge the inverter battery fully to ensure that it doesn’t discharge during the check. This forms the first step to checking the health of your inverter battery. Use a charger to deliver a full charging current for 24 hours. This will make sure any fluctuations due to short circuit is resolved entirely.

2. Unplug the Battery

After the battery has been fully charged, disconnect it from the inverter and check for irregularities. Make sure the battery is free from any load connected to it. Also, it’s crucial to ensure that both positive and negative loads are disconnected to avoid accidental reverse polarities arising. 

3. Check if the Terminals are Clean

Check if the battery terminals are clean. Check for any dirt or grime on the battery terminals. If you find any, clean them with a clean and dry cloth. Clean terminals are important to make sure there is proper contact with the meter, which will lead to proper reading. A secure connection is vital to avoid discrepancies in the preliminary test. 

There are different types of inverter battery, but the terminals must be kept clean at all times. 

4. Check Acid Levels

A battery with good health has an optimum acid level in it. For a sealed lead acid battery, you can use a special meter to check the acid levels in different cells. This will help you determine any leaks or damage to the electrolyte solution inside these batteries. It also helps determine how much charge is left in the batteries for future use. 

5. Assess the Acid Color

Once you have checked the acid levels, you now have to check the acid color. You can use special test strips available in different colors showing different pH levels. The acid color and density should also be visually checked. The denser and darker the color, the higher the acid content. A battery with good health has a colorless acid. 

6. Check Voltage and Specific Gravity 

Inverter batteries are charged using a charger. A loss in capacity can be determined by verifying the voltage and specific gravity of the battery. Charge your 220Ah tubular battery fully and use an electronic meter to check the voltage and see if the voltage fluctuations are consistent. Too many changes in voltage can cause problems with the battery. The fluctuations in the specific gravity should also show consistent readings. It should not vary too much. 

7. Check for Faulty Connections

Sometimes, the terminal connections of a battery can become loose or disconnected and cause issues. To check, apply a low load current to the battery. If your 12v 220Ah tubular battery remains functional after this test, it is likely a connection is loose. 

It can happen that some components have been exposed to water or direct sunlight, causing corrosion at the terminals. Any component coming in contact with it also gets corroded, and in such cases where the connections are weak, they will not be able to carry as much current as they usually do. 

The excessive heat produced during charging and discharging may even damage the battery, leading to subsequent failure. 

8. Check the Surface for any Dust 

Check the surface of the battery for any cracks or damaged areas. Any impact or shock to the battery may damage the internal components and make it useless. 

Conclusion

It is important to make sure that your inverter battery functions optimally so that your inverter and appliances continue to function properly. That’s why checking your battery is important. Follow the above steps to check your battery health and ensure it’s running the way it should. 

 

 

 

Nigeria's Energy Revolution: A Look at Tubular Inverter Battery Technology

 

 

Nigeria is a place where unexpected power outages are at regular intervals. In such a situation, most Nigerians rely on inverter batteries. Tubular inverter batteries are now become one of the most reliable power supply sources for Nigerians. In this blog, we are going to delve into Nigeria’s energy revolution and discuss the benefits of tubular inverter batteries. 

Uninterrupted Power Supply

One of the biggest benefits of tubular inverter batteries is getting an uninterrupted power supply during power outages. The tubular inverter batteries have a high energy capacity, allowing them to store substantial electrical energy. The tubular positive plate of tubular batteries comprises high-grade alloys, like lead oxide (PbO2). The unique plate design helps to transfer energy more quickly and efficiently. 

 Longer Power Duration

The tubular inverterbatteries are resistant to deep discharging cycles. It ensures a longer power duration than other batteries during prolonged power cuts. It can discharge up to 40%-30% without taking so much damage. However, it is recommended to discharge your tubular battery up to 50%-40% before recharging them to get an extended lifespan.

 Fast Charging Capacity

The tubular inverter battery can accept high-voltage energy, enabling a faster charging procedure. In a country like Nigeria, where frequent power fluctuations and voltage variations are common issues, high charge acceptance allows these batteries to absorb charge quickly from the grid or alternative power sources, maximising their utilisation and reducing downtime between power outages. 

 Lower Amount of Energy Loss

The self-discharge rate of tubular inverter batteries is very low. Tubular inverter batteries can only discharge 12%-15% of their energy in a month while not in use. This feature of a tubular battery is most beneficial when you need an emergency power backup system instantly. Because of the lower amount of energy loss, these batteries retain their charge for extended periods, minimising energy losses and ensuring power availability when needed.

 Durable Cost-saving Option

If you seek a durable cost cost-saving inverter battery for energy backup, consider tubular inverter batteries according to your requirements. The high-quality raw materials and unique construction enhance the toughness of tubular inverter batteries. The tubular-positive plates have a considerably thicker and sturdier construction as compared to flat plates, making them more resistant to corrosion and physical damage. The average lifespan of Star Plus tubular batteries is 7 years to 8 years. The extended lifespan ensures that tubular batteries require less frequent replacements, resulting in cost savings over the long run.

 Require Less Maintenance

The maintenance and repair of tubular inverter batteries require less effort and cost than their flat plate equivalents. The robust construction and advanced technology make the tubular inverter batteries lose less amount of water and reduce acid stratification. Unlike traditional batteries, you do not need to top up your inverter battery very often.  Moreover, tubular batteries are highly efficient in converting stored energy into usable power, minimising energy wastage, and optimising performance.

 Reduced Risk Potential

Safety should be the first priority when selecting a tubular battery for the inverter. Star Plus tubular inverter batteries come with advanced safety features, reducing potential risk factors. They include features such as short-circuit protection, overcharge protection, and thermal management systems to ensure safe and reliable operation.    

 Sustainable Environment-Friendly Option

Tubular inverter batteries bring a massive revolution in renewable energies. The high charge acceptance capability of a tubular inverter battery makes it the perfect power backup solution to store the energy produced by solar panels. The tubular batteries discharge minimum fumes, reducing air pollution as well. Tubular batteries are among the most sustainable, environment-friendly options for energy storage since they facilitate the creation of a cleaner and healthier environment through proper disposal and recycling. You can consider these factors while selecting an inverter battery for home. 

 Star Plus Tubular Inverter Batteries

Star Plus is one of the leading manufacturers of tubular batteries in Nigeria. Our batteries are known for their great performance and budget-friendly prices. On average, a Star Plus tubular battery has 20% more electrical capacity than other types of batteries, and its self-discharge rate is very low, losing only 12%-15% charge per month when not in use. Furthermore, our batteries boast a long service life of up to 7-8 years, and they come up with a 24-month warranty as well. Therefore, if you are looking for a reliable inverter power backup system at cost-effective prices, Star Plus tubular inverter batteries will be an optimal choice for you.

 

How to Maintain Your Inverter Battery for Optimum Performance

 

 

Electricity plays a vital role in our lives. Electrical appliances like TVs and computers need a constant electricity supply to function. Not only household appliances but industrial machines also need electricity to function. 

However, power cuts are not uncommon, and though the frequency of them varies with time and place, they are disastrous. They impede workflow, and nothing can be worse than that. This is the reason why several power backup solutions have been invented to enjoy an uninterrupted power supply. Backup solutions like inverters play a major role in areas with frequent power outages. 

Batteries are an integral part of an inverter, and every battery, including a tubular inverterbattery, needs proper maintenance for it to perform optimally for a long time. Here are some maintenance tips to follow. 

Install the Battery in a Well Ventilated Place

Maintaining your battery begins right from the installation. Install the battery in a well-ventilated airy place. During charging and operation, an inverter battery gets heated up. This heat reduces the life and efficiency of the battery. Proper ventilation reduces heat up and increases the life of the battery. 

Use Your Battery Regularly

It is recommended to use your inverter and battery for inverter regularly. Even if there are no power cuts, you must discharge your battery at least once a month. This is required to maintain the charge. It is also beneficial to maintain battery health.

Check the Water Level of the Battery Regularly    

Check the water level of your inverter battery regularly. Also, make sure you maintain the water level of your battery between the maximum and minimum levels. When topping your battery up with water, use only distilled or non-ionized water. Do not ever use tap water to top up your battery. Tap water may contain many impurities and excess minerals, which can affect the life and performance of the battery. 

Keep the Battery Dust Free

Dust particles not only interfere with the operations of the battery but also decreases its life. Therefore, clean the battery regularly to keep it dust-free. Use a cotton cloth to clean the surfaces and sides of the battery of all dust and dirt particles. 

Keep the Battery Terminals Rust Free

Rusting and corrosion areharmful to your tubular battery for an inverter. When the terminals catch rust, it restricts the current flow to and fro from the battery. This restricted flow results in slow battery charging, which reduces its life. To clean the battery terminals of rust and corrosion, pour hot water and baking soda onto the area and clean it off with a toothbrush. This should remove the corrosion. After removing the rust, apply a generous layer of petroleum jelly to prevent future corrosion. 

Keep the Battery Out of Reach of Children

Keep the battery in such a place that it remains out of reach of children. Kids getting in contact with inverter batteries can have an adverse effect on both. Your children may injure themselves, and a part of the battery may also get affected because it is a very sensitive device.

Right Load on the Inverter Battery 

Make sure you do not connect a load greater than what the inverter can carry. This will not only reduce the life of the battery but can also result in a damaged appliance or worse, a short circuit. 

Wrapping It Up

Maintaining your battery correctly is important for it to perform optimally. The correct maintenance of your tubular inverter battery increases not only its lifespan but also its performance. Installing the battery in a well-ventilated place, keeping it rust and dust free, and checking the water level regularly are some of the steps you need to take to help it perform optimally. 

 

 

 

 

 

How Does an Inverter Battery Work and the Factors Affecting Its Functioning

 

 

We depend on electricity for the majority of our daily tasks. This is why spending even an hour without electricity is more than just tough. It’s next to impossible.

This is the major reason why so many different types of power backup solutions are prevalent in the market today. Among the various types of power backups available, an inverter holds its place as the most convenient and reliable. 

However, an inverter is nothing without a battery backing it up, and that’s why choosing the right tubular inverter battery is so important. 

Go through the blog to understand how an inverter battery functions, what its uses are, and the factors that affect its performance. 

How Does an Inverter Battery Work?

An inverter and battery function together. The task of an inverter is to supply Alternating current (AC) to appliances on which they run. The battery stores Direct current (DC) and supplies the inverter with it, which it then converts to AC and supplies to appliances. 

All these functions begin when the grid power is cut off. When the grid poweuse; on and the battery is not in use, the battery cells are charged on a low current through a transformer. Once the grid stops supplying power, the inverter with battery backup starts supplying AC to the electrical appliances immediately with surge protection against voltage fluctuation. 

Different Types of Inverter Batteries

There are mainly three types of inverter batteries available in the market today. They are:

• Tubular Batteries
• Flat Plate Batteries 
• Gel Batteries

Each type of battery has its specific functionalities and significance. For example, tubular batteries are the most popular among the three because of their low maintenance cost and efficiency. They are also extremely safe to keep near you. To top off the advantage list, they are recyclable and have a long life if proper maintenance is done.

The gel battery type comes with zero spillage, is maintenance-free, no water top-up is required, and offers a consistent power supply. Gel batteries are also safe for residential spaces. The only downside is that they come at a slightly higher price. 

Flat plate batteries are suitable for areas with frequent power cuts. They come at a lower price but have a shorter lifespan. They are ideal for places that require fast charging. 

Different Factors That Affect the Functioning of Inverter Batteries

With so many different brands of batteries to choose from, it’s certainly a tricky task to choose the right one. However, you must always choose the best inverter battery for home to secure your appliances and get the finest power backup. Here are some factors that affect the functionality and life of inverter batteries. 

Battery Quality

The cables, terminals, and charge controllers must be of top-notch quality. If not, they might put you and your loved ones in danger if kept near you. 

Battery Compatibility

Buy a battery that can support the load of your home. For that, you need to calculate the load of the place where you intend to use the battery. It’s a good choice to buy a 220Ah tubular inverter battery for places with high loads. 

Temperature

Hot or cold temperatures can impact a battery’s lifespan, operational ability, voltage, and chemical reactions. The effect of temperature on the battery depends on its design and brand. 

Conclusion

Given above is a short sketch of how an inverter battery works and the factors that affect its functioning. The quality of the materials used to build the battery is a great determining factor of how long the battery will last. The lifespan also depends on the type of battery it is. You can go for a tubular inverter battery if you want things to be safe, secure, and long-lasting with you.