Maintenance Suggestions For Photovoltaic Power Generation Systems In Winter
Jan 17, 2023
The solar photovoltaic system is composed of solar cells, solar controllers, and storage batteries (groups). If the output power is AC 220V or 110V, a photovoltaic inverter is also required.
In winter, the power demand is the most and the sunshine is the least at the same time, so the use and maintenance of solar photovoltaic power generation systems in winter should be more serious. This article lists some maintenance recommendations as well as some tips for reducing backup generator usage.
1. Photovoltaic square array in the solar photovoltaic power generation system: check and fasten the connecting bolts and wires, test the output, and adjust the inclination.
2. Tracker: Lubricate bearings, check bolts and shock absorbers.
3. Spare fuel system: the wiring is confirmed, and it has been checked and ready for use at any time.
4. Charge controller: check the voltage setting of the rectifier, and check that the voltmeter indicates normal. If the battery temperature is below 55°F, it should be allowed to charge to a higher voltage (at least 14.8 volts for a 12 volt system). If your charge controller has temperature compensation, it will automatically adjust. If there is an external temperature sensor, make sure it is attached to the battery. If there is no automatic adjustment function, it is necessary to manually increase the voltage and adjust it back in the spring (adjusted to 14, 3 volts). If the charge controller is not adjustable, try to keep the battery in a warmer environment.
5. Battery (lead-acid): Check the voltage of each battery, eliminate the failed ones, and determine whether equalization charging is required. Perform equalization charge maintenance if necessary (usually, 8 hours of medium overcharge after the battery is fully charged). Wash off any liquid or dust on the battery (use dry baking soda to neutralize acid deposits). Clean or replace corroded terminals. Apply petroleum jelly to the terminals to prevent further corrosion. Check the battery fluid and add distilled or deionized water if necessary. Check the ventilation (insects etc. in the ventilation ducts).
Note: Check wire size, connections, fuses, etc. for safety measures. Grounding lightning protection: Install or check grounding posts or ground wires.
6. Loads or appliances: Check for invisible loads or low-efficiency uses. For example: the transformer of the wall lamp and the TV set with remote control consume electricity as long as they are connected to the power supply. Does your electric heater automatically adjust the temperature to keep the inverter running 24 hours a day? Lights: Check for blackened incandescent bulbs and consider replacing them with halogen or fluorescent bulbs. Replace blackened fluorescent tubes. Clean the dust from the lamp and its mounting bracket.
7. Inverter: Check the regulator, installation settings, and wiring. Note: The charging voltage of the inverter with charging function should be set to 14.5 (29) volts. Refer to the user manual. Add additional temperature probes if necessary.
8. Battery temperature The capacity of a lead-acid battery loses 25% at 30°F. When fully charged, freezing at 20°F leads to damage. Excessive heat in summer can also affect its lifespan. Therefore, batteries should be avoided in extreme outdoor temperature environments. Batteries installed indoors according to national standards can operate safely.