Hey folks,
As we roll into the colder months, it’s a good idea to check in on your VLA (vented lead-acid) batteries. Winter is hard on off-grid systems — colder temps slow chemical reactions, and shorter days mean less solar coming in. A quick round of maintenance now can save you from a lot of frustration (and cold nights) later.
Here’s a quick rundown of what we recommend doing before winter hits:
1. Check Your Water Levels
Pop those caps and take a peek inside. The plates should be fully covered with electrolyte — if they’re looking a little low, go ahead and top them off with distilled water. Don’t overfill! You’ll want to leave a little space for expansion when the batteries warm up during charging.
2. Give the Cells a Hydrometer Test
A hydrometer is your best friend when it comes to checking battery health. Take a reading from each cell to make sure they’re all charging evenly. If one cell reads a lot lower than the others, it might be time to give it some extra attention — or at least keep an eye on it.
3. Tighten Things Up and Clean Off Corrosion
Loose or corroded connections can cause voltage drops and weird system behavior. Take a few minutes to snug up all the cable connections.
If you see any white or green “fuzz” around your terminals, mix up a little 50/50 solution of baking soda and water and clean it off. Just be sure to rinse and dry afterward so nothing’s left damp.
4. Run an Equalization Charge
This is the time of year to run an equalize cycle. It’s best to do this off a generator, since you’ll know the charge will complete properly — and it’s a great chance to check if your generator needs any maintenance, too. Equalizing helps balance the cells and keeps sulfation under control. Just make sure you check water levels before and after — equalizing can use a bit of water.
Thinking It Might Be Time for an Upgrade?
If your batteries are already showing their age — not holding a charge, needing constant water, or just feeling tired — it might be worth thinking about switching to lithium-ion.Lithium batteries are pretty much maintenance-free, they charge faster, and they last longer overall. Plus, the 30% Federal Tax Credit is ending this year, so if you upgrade soon, you can still get that 30% back as a tax credit on the total battery cost. Contact us today to learn more!