Small Battery Box Instructions
Rev: A Page 2 of 6
maintenance or cleaning. Turning off the inverter will not reduce these risks. Solar modules produce power
when exposed to light. When it is not possible to disconnect the power coming from the Photovoltaics by an
external means such as a combiner, cover the modules with an opaque material before servicing any
connected equipment.
Never attempt to charge a frozen battery.
When it is necessary to remove a battery, make sure that the battery bank disconnect breaker is in the off
position and that the PV breakers, grid breakers and any other sources of power to the inverter are in the off
position. Then remove the negative terminal from the battery first.
To reduce risk of battery explosion follow these instructions and those published by the battery manufacturer
as well as the manufacturer of any additional equipment used in the vicinity of the batteries. Before installing
the battery enclosure, read all instructions and cautionary markings in or on any connected electrical
equipment.
Avoid producing sparks in the vicinity of the batteries when using vented batteries. Provide ventilation to
clear the area of explosive gases. Sealed AGM and Gel batteries do not under normal conditions create
explosive gases. Be especially cautious when using metal tools. Dropping a metal tool onto batteries can short
circuit them. The resulting spark can lead to personal injury or damage to the equipment. Provide ventilation
to outdoors from the battery compartment when installing vented batteries such as golf cart T-105 batteries.
The addition of a spill tray is also a good idea.
Clean all battery terminals. Very high currents are drawn from the batteries; even a small amount of electrical
resistance can result in overheating, poor performance, premature failure or even fire.
Have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby in case battery acid contacts skin, clothing or eyes. Wear
complete eye and clothing protection. Always avoid touching eyes while working near batteries. If battery
acid or battery terminal corrosion contacts skin or clothing, wash immediately with soap and water. If acid
enters the eyes, immediately flood with cool running water for at least 15 minutes and get medical attention
immediately. Baking soda neutralizes battery acid electrolyte. Keep a supply near the batteries.
Do not work alone. Someone should be in the range of your voice or close enough to come to your aid when
you work with or near electrical equipment.
Remove rings, bracelets, necklaces, watches etc. when working with batteries, photovoltaic modules or other
electrical equipment. Power from an illuminated photovoltaic array makes a very effective arc welder with
dire consequences if one of the welded pieces is on your person.
To reduce the risk of injury, connect only deep cycle lead acid type rechargeable batteries. Other types of
batteries may leak or burst, causing personal injury or damage.
