Specialty Concepts SCS/90 - Manual (Page 19)

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 SCS 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 SCS is set to. Refer to SETTINGS / ADJUSTMENTS Section.
•
Other Charging Sources: Another charging source could be the cause. If the
SCS “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.
••
SCS 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.