In this series we’ll learn about replacing deep cycle batteries and reconfiguring them to squeeze the most life out of this valuable resource.
“eennt! eennt! eennt!” The inverters warn of low battery voltage. “Its your turn for the generator today!” One teen says to the other. “Uh uh, its your day!” comes the reply. This is just one of the side effects of having a worn out deep cycle battery bank for our off grid home.
You make the big investment in new deep cycle batteries, and think, ” man, these are so big they’ll never wear out!” Oh how I wish that were true. Five years ago we replaced our 12 Trojan L16 deep cycle batteries. The original design of our off grid power system was not designed for the new home office that I created by insulating and remodeling an old tool shed. The extra power I use it the office went way over my original power budget for system.
This time of year the solar power from our array is on average 25-30% of peak summer solar output. This means that we operate in “genverter mode” about all the time. Unfortunately, the battery voltage drops and we are forced to start the generator several times a day. I sure look forward to that new battery bank this spring. This isn’t the most ‘silent’ winter, but the Small Generator Review and Experience Part 3-what works helps my confidence this winter.
I will be documenting my worn out deep cycle battery bank in future installments. The numbers and performance of my system will be a helpful guide for those unsure about their systems. Anyway, for now, we’re stuck with “eennt! eennt! eennt!” and the arguing about who’s ‘day’ it is.
The battery bank
See the next part of this series, deep cycle batteries [2] retirement data
Do you have a worn out battery bank? How did you decide it was time to replace it? Leave your comments below!
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Nice story. Those batteries look creepy.
.-= Dave Doolin | Website In A Weekend´s last blog ..As The Internet Evolves – Anonymity Go Bye Bye =-.