Specialty Concepts SC1 - Manual (Page 18)

T R O U B L E S H O O T I N G : B A T T E R I E S
Refer to this section to help diagnose potential problems based on battery observations.
CASE BATTERY SEE NOTE(S)
1
→
Seems to be over-charging See Battery Note 1
2
→
Does not fully charge batteries See Battery Note 2
Battery Note 1 - BATTERY OVER-CHARGING: If there is evidence that the batteries have
been over-charging, consider these points:
•
Normal Battery Condition: The batteries may not be over-charging but only be
experiencing normal water loss and normal levels of gassing. Check the “BATTERY
VOLTAGE” reading. Normal battery voltage for a wet cell battery can be up to 14.8 volts
(12v system).
•
Controller Problem: The SC1 could be defective. Refer to the field test procedure.
•
Battery Type: The batteries may be a type that require a lower full-charge voltage than what
the SC1 is set to. Refer to SETTINGS / ADJUSTMENTS Section.
•
Other Charging Sources: Another charging source could be the cause. If the SC1
“CHARGING” light is off and the “ARRAY CURRENT” reading is 0, then the solar system is
off and overcharging can be from another source. Some 110 volt battery chargers are not
well regulated and could over-charge batteries if left unattended.
••
A Hot Battery - Hot temperatures can affect the battery charging, a hot location for
batteries will tend to over-charge the batteries.
Battery Note 2 - BATTERY UNDER-CHARGED: If the battery voltage is low and they are not
able to be charged sufficiently, consider one of the following problems:
••
Solar Panels Problem - Panel may be dirty, not aligned or other problem.
••
Bad Connection to the Solar Panel.
••
SC1 Controller Problem. - Refer to the FIELD TEST PROCEDURE
••
A Bad Battery - The batteries may be going bad. TEST: If the battery is going bad, a little
charging or discharging will cause a large change in the battery voltage.
••
A Cold Battery - Cold temperatures can affect the battery charging. If the battery is cold
much of the time, the battery’s long-term performance and life may suffer.
••
System not sized correctly - For too much usage, try charging the battery with another
charging source (engine alternator, generator or AC battery charger). If the batteries are
OK and hold the charge, an increase in the number batteries and panels may be needed
to support the usage.