Renewable Energy (RE) Systems
A properly sized Renewable Energy (RE) System, with an adequate charging source, will give you many years of service.
Renewable Energy Charging Systems
To maximize performance and life, batteries should be recharged fully after each discharge period. Refer to the following chart for initial charge control settings:
| Voltage Setting | 6 Volt | 12 Volts | 24 Volts | 36 Volts | 48 Volts |
| Absorption/Bulk | 7.3 | 14.5 | 29.0 | 43.6 | 58.1 |
| Equalize | 7.7 | 15.5 | 31.0 | 46.4 | 61.9 |
| Float | 6.8 | 13.5 | 27.0 | 40.5 | 54.0 |
Our suggested duration of Absorption Charge is 2 hours per parallel string. The above settings assume two things:
- The typical Depth of Discharge (DoD) is 50% or less
- The total input amperage from the charging source is at least 10 amps per 100 AH of your battery bank
If the DoD is more than 50% and/or the input amperage is less than 10%, you will need to increase the absorption voltage and/or the duration. These are only initial settings. Regular monitoring of specific gravity and Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) is necessary during the first month of installation. Adjust the charge control settings as necessary. We also suggest that you monitor the state of charge during the month after a change in season. We suggest that you equalize your battery bank every 30 days for batteries that are discharged to 50% or less. For DoDs greater than 50%, we suggest that you equalize more often. The suggested equalization charge is 2 hours and should be done using a generator.
Refer to the following chart for initial charge control settings for AGM batteries:
| Voltage Setting | VPC | 12 Volts | 24 Volts | 48 Volts |
| Bulk | 2.44 | 14.64 | 29.28 | 58.56 |
| Absorption | 2.42 | 14.52 | 29.04 | 58.08 |
| Float | 2.20 | 13.20 | 26.40 | 52.80 |
Watering Service
The need to add water to your battery bank will vary due to several factors:
- DoD – 50% DoD or more will require service more often
- Environment – warmer climates will require service more often
- Age of battery bank – older batteries will require service more often
To start, we suggest you check your bank after 2 weeks. If the batteries haven’t used water, you can extend to monthly inspection. Keep fluid levels between the top of the plate and the bottom of the filler cap. Add water only after charging and use distilled water for best results.
Preventative Maintenance
- Keep terminals and battery covers clean of corrosion
- Make sure cable connections are tight and free of corrosion
Follow these simple steps and your RE system will give you many years of service. If you have further questions or need anything clarified, be sure to stop by – we are here to help. As always, American Battery Corporation is here to answer your questions and concerns. Give us a call or stop by – we love to solve problems. Remember, “We Sell Batteries – Knowledge and Service Are Fee”.