Why Your Home Inverter Backup Drops Faster During Heatwaves — And 5 Ways to Increase Battery Life
The temperatures in many parts of India have been above 45 degrees Celsius during the past few weeks, resulting in many homes experiencing reduced power during power cuts from their inverter backup than they experienced previously.
According to experts, there are several reasons why this tends to happen during extremely hot summer months, as there are high amounts of stress placed on an inverter’s battery, electrical systems, and the amount of power used in homes, all at the same time.
1. Improve Ventilation Around the Inverter
Keep your inverter as far away from direct sunlight as possible.
* Do not put your inverter in an enclosed and unventilated area.
* Ensure that there is adequate space around the battery units.
* Use the coolest possible areas to locate your inverter.
2. Reduce Unnecessary Backup Load
Certain devices utilize a fivefold-plus higher than normal amount of energy. They Include:
– Air Conditioning Units
– Electric Iron(s) / Straighteners
– Microwave(s)
– Hot water heaters (Electric).
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3. Keep Battery Water Levels Properly Maintained
The water level in lead-acid inverter batteries has a direct impact on the performance of the batteries as well as an increased chance of the batteries experiencing thermal runaway/failure due to high temperatures from internal resistance caused by lack of liquid electrolyte (water). Therefore, It is essential you periodically inspect to verify that the water levels meet the necessary specifications outlined by the manufacturer.
– For optimal performance, read and follow any additional manufacturer’s guidelines for battery maintenance items such as cleaning, load testing and/or financing.
4. Avoid Deep Battery Discharge
Completely discharging your inverter batteries several times will have a negative impact on the health of the batteries over time. Experts recommend that you recharge the batteries before they are fully discharged and kept that way for an extended period of time.
5. Service Old Batteries Before Peak Summer
Signs that your battery is stressed include:
* Backup duration decreasing rapidly
* Charging time increasing
* Getting warmer than it should when charging
* Having less than normal electrical output.
Final Words
Experts believe it’s possible to increase your inverters capacity during high heat periods by properly ventilating them as well as using less electricity with the batteries and keeping them cool.
Smart Battery Management systems (BMS) have become critical for homes across India as they face longer and hotter heat waves every year.
FAQs
Why does an inverter run out of battery power during extreme heat events?
Because people are using more energy for cooling and heat generates additional stress on the battery, causing a decrease in capacity.
Will the battery in an inverter be permanently damaged from the heat?
Recurring heater events may affect the battery’s lifecycle, with repeated episodes reducing it.
Which electrical device will drain the batteries quicker than other types of devices?
The largest quick drain appliances are air conditioners, heaters, irons, and microwaves.
Is it important for an inverter battery to have fresh air circulate through the BMS?
Yes, a lack of air can cause the BMS to overheat and lose its ability to provide efficient service to your home.
