Equalizing a Bank of Batteries

Posted by Mike Zaborski on August 07, 2009, 07:48:21 PM

What is the best way to equalize a battery bank?

I have some BAE solar batteries (12 VOLT)and they are 7 years old. I have not done any maintenace to them except for adding water to the cells.They are not able to hold a charge.

I was told that they need to be equalized. Is there some sort of formula for this?

Posted by Roy Fritz on August 09, 2009, 03:23:18 PM

Re: Equalizing a Bank of Batteries (Reply #1)

you should check each battery by its self separate from the rest. Charge each battery by its self. Your voltage should read close to the same after charging. You may have a bad cell that will draw the rest down. Also after seven years they maybe towards the end of there life. This also depends on the heavy usage they have had.I do not know your maintenace but there may also be a bad cable connection. Just some ideas.

Posted by Thomas Allen Schmidt on August 09, 2009, 06:07:22 PM

Re: Equalizing a Bank of Batteries (Reply #2)

Provided that the BAE's you have are indeed deep cycle flooded cell lead acid batteries and not the sealed cells, you'll need a hydrometer in order to read the specific gravity of each cell of every battery and they should all read the same. 1.265 on a hydrometer. I am sure Alt-E store sells them. For more information on charge rates for equalizing go here -
http://www.aetool.com/upload/Instruction%20on%20Recharging%20Batteries.pdf
and check the "cut sheet" from the manufacture for your particular battery.
http://www.baebatteriesusa.com/products/

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Equalizing a Bank of Batteries

Posted by Mike Zaborski on August 07, 2009, 07:48:21 PM

Posted by Roy Fritz on August 09, 2009, 03:23:18 PM

Posted by Thomas Allen Schmidt on August 09, 2009, 06:07:22 PM

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