The component that determines satisfaction.
WHY THEY DOMINATE
They are the most expensive component, the shortest-lived, and the cause of most dissatisfaction.
WHAT SHORTENS BATTERY LIFE
Deep discharge, repeatedly High temperature Incorrect charging Undercharging Poor connections Mixing old and new units
WHY TEMPERATURE MATTERS SO MUCH HERE
Ambient temperatures are high, and battery life falls substantially with heat.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT
Site batteries in the coolest available location, ventilated, out of direct sun.
WHAT TO CONFIGURE CORRECTLY
Charging parameters for the specific battery type.
WHY
Incorrect parameters damage batteries within months.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH WITH THE CUSTOMER
The discharge limit, and that exceeding it repeatedly destroys the batteries.
HOW TO ENFORCE IT
System settings that prevent it, rather than instructions.
WHY SETTINGS RATHER THAN INSTRUCTIONS
Instructions are not followed when the power is needed.
WHAT TO EXPLAIN
The relationship between depth of discharge and life.
WHAT TO PLAN FOR
Replacement, within the system's life.
WHAT TO TELL THE CUSTOMER AT SALE
When replacement is expected, and what it will cost.
WHY AT SALE
Discovering it later feels like concealment.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT DISPOSAL
How used batteries are handled.
WHY
They are hazardous waste and improper disposal is harmful and regulated.
WHAT TO ARRANGE
Return to a recycler or supplier.
WHAT TO NEVER DO
Mix new batteries with old ones in the same bank.
WHY
The old ones limit the whole bank.
