Although
they perform somewhat similar functions, a solar battery is much different
from the batteries that most people buy at the grocery store. Here
is some information about these batteries that is not well known.
• When a person buys a set of flooded batteries and intends
to use them for the first time, he should fully charge and equalize
them. After this is done, it is wise to take a hydrometer reading
that can be reviewed in the future if needed.
• There is a myth that lead-acid batteries have a memory and
that they need to be completely discharged in order to avoid the memory.
This is false and someone who heeds this advice could possibly create
a battery failure.
• Inactivity is not a good thing for a solar battery. The idea
that these should be stored and saved for later is false. Doing this
will only lead to disappointment. This can be avoided by only buying
batteries when you need them and using them when you have them.
• Do not use solvent sprayers in an attempt to clean the batteries.
Doing so could be dangerous as well as do a lot of damage. When cleaning
the outside of a battery, it is important to use only clean, pure,
distilled water. Using another kind of water could cause chemical
reactions that will ruin the battery and cause headaches and safety
hazards for the owner of the solar energy system.
The use of a solar battery is not entirely difficult, but it is wise
to attempt to learn as much about these batteries as a person can
in order to avoid problems and difficulties.