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SOLAR Power Inverter USER’S MANUAL
8
Charging System Requirements
Just as it is important to use the right type of battery and have adequate battery capacity for your application, it
is also important that you utilize a charging system appropriate for your situation. Having an inadequate charging
system could result in undercharging your power supply battery(ies), which could drastically reduce their lifespan.
It could also result in inadequate power capacity in the battery(ies) when you need them to perform a specific
application. For these reasons, it is critical that the charging system chosen is properly matched to the power inverter
and battery(ies) used. Throughout this manual, we refer to your complete installation as your power inverter system
and it is important that all components in the system are matched to provide optimal performance.
Charging Batteries Using a Vehicle Charging System
Your charging system must sufficiently charge your battery(ies) such that enough charging current is delivered to
avoid draining the power source battery(ies) while the power inverter is in use. Most standard vehicle alternators
do not output enough current to maintain large batteries when used as an inverter power source.
In this type of installation, a high current alternator is preferred, as it is more likely to be able to provide the
necessary power. It is important that you calculate your specific alternator output requirement prior to purchasing
a high current alternator for this purpose to be sure that the product you purchase meets your needs. High current
alternators can be found at most auto parts stores.
Charging Batteries Independent of a Vehicle Charging System
Like charging from a vehicle system, it is important that you consider your specific application and needs when
designing your charging system. Consider all factors involved, including the total battery capacity that will need to be
charged, the amount of time that you have to charge the battery(ies) and the best way to deliver the charge. The key
to a successful charging system is that your battery(ies) are fully charged and ready for service when you need them
next.
Testing Batteries to Ensure Readiness
It is good practice to periodically check the condition of your battery(ies) when discharged and at the completion
of the charging process to ensure that your charging system is functioning properly and keeping your battery(ies)
in good health. To do so, we recommend using an electronic battery tester. Follow all procedures outlined by the
battery tester manufacturer and those from the battery manufacturer.
If your battery(ies) are of the Conventional Flooded Acid type (not Maintenance-Free), it is important to check the
electrolyte level regularly and ensure that the proper level is maintained. Use only distilled water when replenishing
the electrolyte. Follow all procedures outlined by the battery manufacturer when replenishing the electrolyte.
Cable Requirements
Warning: Failure to use proper DC input cables (size, length and composition) could result in excessive
heat generation, possibly resulting in poor system performance, damage to equipment, fire and personal
injury!
Note: We recommend consulting a qualified electrician and reviewing the National Electrical Codes when
determining the best method of connecting your power source battery(ies) to your power inverter.
DC Input and Grounding Cable Requirements
As with all other power inverter system components, it is critical that your DC input cables (positive and negative) be
properly matched to ensure peak performance and safe operation. Because your 12 Volt power source will generate
extremely high current, it is important that you use high quality, low resistance stranded copper cable.
In addition, always permanently connect cables using properly rated connections and make sure that the cable
connections are tight.
Your DC input cables should be as short as possible, yet still allowing the inverter to be placed in a separate
compartment than the power source battery(ies) (see Choosing an Installation Location). We recommend NEVER
exceeding 5 ft. in length (one side) and following the table below for DC Input Cable Size.
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