Outback Power Systems FLEXmax 80 Owners Manual - Manual (Page 44)

Operation
42 900-0009-01-00 Rev C
EQ – Battery Equalize
Equalization is a controlled overcharge that is part of regular battery maintenance. Equalization
brings the batteries to a much higher voltage than usual and “simmers” them for a period of time.
This has the result of removing inert compounds from the battery plates and reducing stratification in
the electrolyte. Equalization follows the same pattern as standard three-stage charging. However,
instead of the Absorption voltage set points, it is controlled by the Battery Equalize Volts settings.
The time is controlled by the Battery Equalize Time setting.
Equalization is normally performed only on flooded lead-acid batteries. The schedule for equalization
varies with battery use and type, but it is usually performed every few months. If performed correctly,
this process can extend battery life by a considerable amount.
CAUTION: Battery Damage
 Do not equalize any sealed battery types (VRLA, AGM, Gel, or other) unless
approved by the manufacturer. Some batteries may suffer severe damage from
equalization.
 Contact the battery manufacturer for recommendations on equalization voltage,
duration, schedule, and/or advisability. Always follow manufacturer
recommendations for equalization.
Figure 31 Using Equalization
Charger Aux Light
EQ Misc Advanced
Logging Stats
EXIT
  GO
MAIN Menu
BATTERY EQUALIZE
Volts
15.0
EXIT NEXT -EQV +EQV
Charger Aux Light
EQ Misc Advanced
Logging Stats
EXIT
  GO
BATTERY EQUALIZE
Time
01 Hours
EXIT NEXT -HRS +HRS
To change the EQ mode settings:
1. From the main menu, press <> or <> to move the

to
the left of EQ .
2. Press to open the BATTERY EQUALIZE Volts screen.
3. Press <-EQV> to decrease the value.
4. Press <+EQV> to increase the value.
5. Press to advance to the Battery Equalize Time screen.
6. Press <-HRS> to decrease the value.
7. Press <+HRS> to increase the value.
8. Press to advance to the
Battery Equalize Start screen.
9. Choose one of the following equalization modes:
 Press to start a manual equalization charge.
 Press to stop an equalization charge.
 Press to view the auto equalization screen.
See Figure 32 for details.
10. Press to return to the EQ screen.
BATTERY EQUALIZE
1 Hours 15.0 Volts
Check water level
BACK AUTO START STOP To Exit:
 Press once to return to the main menu.
 Press twice to return to the status screen.