An inverter battery is a power backup tool that supplies power to inverters, which convert DC (direct current) energy from batteries to AC (alternating current) power to power appliances and devices in house and office spaces. Inverter batteries are smart backup power sources in areas with frequent power cuts or as a primary power source in off-grid areas without access to a power grid.
Ampere-hours (Ah) is the measuring unit to rate the capacity of an inverter battery, which refers to the amount of current the battery provides over a specified period. The battery capacity required depends on the power requirements of the appliances that need power during an outage. The more the capacity of the battery, the longer the backup time it can provide.
Inverter batteries are lead-acid batteries and come in two types: flat plate and tubular. Flat plate batteries are the most cost-effective and are suitable for light usage, while tubular batteries are expensive and feature a longer lifespan, and are ideal for heavy power supply. Inverter batteries are different from regular batteries as their design enables them to withstand deep discharging and recharging cycles. Maintenance includes checking the electrolyte level, cleaning the battery terminals, and ensuring the battery receives regular charges.
Inverter Battery Functions
Storing Energy
An inverter battery stores energy through DC power. The battery holds the energy until the time comes to power an inverter. The inverter batteries are charged using a charger that converts AC power to DC power.
Power Supply during Outages
When there is a power outage, an inverter battery provides backup power to essential appliances and devices in a household or commercial space. The battery automatically switches on when the power goes out, ensuring a continuous power supply.
Regulating Voltage
Inverter batteries regulate voltage, ensuring that the power supplied to the appliances and devices remains stable and constant. It helps safeguard the appliances from damage caused by voltage fluctuations.
Long Lifespan
Inverters with batteries have a long life, often lasting several years with proper maintenance. The batteries withstand deep discharges, which means they can be discharged to a greater extent without damaging the battery.
Safety Features
Inverter batteries come up with safety features, including overcharge protection and short circuit protection to resist damage to the battery or the appliances connected to it.
Common Problems with Inverter Batteries
Inverter batteries are an essential component of a power backup system, and they play a crucial role in providing an uninterrupted power supply during power outages. Like any other electronic device, inverter batteries can develop common problems over time. One of the most common problems with inverter batteries is sulfation. It occurs when a layer of sulfate crystals covers the lead plates in the battery, reducing its ability to store and deliver power efficiently. Another issue is the loss of water from the battery cells due to evaporation, which might lead to reduced battery life and performance. Overcharging and undercharging are other problems that can damage the battery and shorten its lifespan.
Other common issues with inverter batteries include corrosion of the terminals, loose connections, and damaged cells. Corrosion can affect the battery’s ability to hold a charge, and loose connections can cause voltage drops and affect the battery’s performance. Damaged cells may cause the types of inverter battery to fail entirely or reduce their capacity, resulting in a shorter backup time.
Ways to Fix the Common Inverter Battery Problems
Problem: Low battery backup time
Ways to Fix:
- Ensure that the battery is charged correctly by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check the battery for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
- Replace the battery if it is faulty or too old.
Problem: Battery not holding a charge
Ways to Fix:
- Use a desulfation charger to remove sulfation from the battery.
- Pour distilled water into the battery cells to correct the electrolyte imbalance.
- Check the battery for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
- Replace the battery if it is faulty or too old.
Problem: Overheating
Ways to Fix:
- Reduce the load on the battery to prevent overheating.
- Replace the inverter if it is faulty.
- Make sure that the battery is not exposed to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
Problem: Corrosion
Ways to Fix:
- Make the battery terminals clean using a mixture of baking soda and water.
- Check the battery for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
- Replace the battery if it is faulty or too old.
Problem: Swollen battery
Way to Fix: Replace the battery immediately, as it is faulty and can turn out dangerous.
Final Takeaways
Maintaining and caring for your inverter battery properly is essential to prevent these problems. Regular maintenance procedures, including checking the water level and cleaning the terminals, can help prolong the battery’s life and performance. Avoid overcharging or undercharging the battery, and ensure that it is compatible with your inverter model. You can go through the Star Plus battery review shared by different users, to learn more about how to take care of the inverter batteries and offer it a long life. In case of severe problems, it is best to consult professional technicians to repair or replace the battery.