Specialty Concepts SC3/10) - Manual (Page 13)

BATTERY PROBLEMS :
- Refer to this section to help diagnose potential problems
based on battery observations.
CASE BATTERY SEE CASE NOTE(S)
1
→
Battery voltage low or does not hold a charge See Battery Case 1
2
→
Battery seems to be over-charging See Battery Case 2
Battery Case 1 - BATTERY UNDER-CHARGED: If the batteries are always low and not
able to be charged sufficiently, consider one of the following problems:
••
System not sized correctly - (See Help Note #5). 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.
••
Solar Panels Problem - Panel may be dirty, not aligned or other problem. (See Help
Note #6)
••
SC3/10 Controller Problem - A problem may exist with the charging input from the
controller. This would delete or reduce the daily re-charging of the battery. A
problem with the SC3/10 would not cause the battery to be drained of voltage. See
the SC3/10 PROBLEM section.
••
A Problem with the Batteries - The batteries could be configured incorrectly or be
going bad. (See Help Note #7)
••
A Cold Battery - Cold temperatures can affect the battery charging. See
TEMPERATURE (Help Note #4). If the battery is cold much of the time, the battery’s
long-term performance and life may suffer.
Battery Case 2 - 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. (See Help Notes #2
and #3)
•
Controller Problem: The SC3/10 could be defective. If the charging light is on and
the actual battery voltage (measured at the battery) is over 14.5 volts, the controller
is likely to be defective.
••
A Problem with the Batteries - The batteries could be configured incorrectly. (See
Help Note #7)
•
Non-compatible Batteries: The batteries may be a type that are not compatible with
this system and require a lower full-charge voltage. Check battery specifications.
•
Other Charging Sources: Another charging source could be the cause. Some 110
volt battery chargers are not well regulated and could over-charge batteries if left
unattended.
••
A Hot Battery - See TEMPERATURE (Help Note #4)