97-0020-01-01
55
Battery Information
This
g
u
id
e for
u
se by qu
alifi
ed installers only.
Battery Banks
As your power requirements increase, you may need to use more than one
battery to obtain sufficient capacity. Batteries can be connected in parallel,
in series, or in series-parallel to create higher capacity systems.
See “Battery Cabling and Hook-up Configurations” on page 57 for more
information about battery inter-connection schemes.
Mixing Batteries
Batteries connected in parallel should be of the same
type and amp-hour rating and from the same manufacturer.
It is not recommended to connect batteries of different types, amp-hour
ratings or manufacturers. Improper charging and decreased battery life will
result.
Battery Bank Sizing Worksheet
The following worksheet is a guide to help you determine your battery
needs. Be generous in estimating the time for which you will run each of the
loads to ensure sufficient battery capacity.
Restrictions on Motor Size
An appliance may require three to six times its normal running current in
order to start. The Freedom SW can handle surges to 6000 watts for five
seconds, which translates to a locked-rotor-amp rating of no more than
50 amps. The locked rotor amp may be specified on the motor nameplate as
“LRA” or “LRI”.
When considering appliances with large motors, follow these guidelines:
•
Make sure that the motor’s LRA rating is no more than 50 amps. The
Freedom SW may not be able to start a motor with a higher LRA, and
the Freedom SW will shut down if the attempt is made.
•
Make sure the battery bank, DC cables and DC fuses are capable of
handling up to 600 amps DC for five seconds. A weaker circuit may
not be able to provide sufficient power to the Freedom SW to allow the
Freedom SW to start up the appliance. Again, if the circuit cannot
deliver the required current, the system may shut down or the fuse may
open.
Freedom SW 3K2K InvChg Install Guide.book Page 55 Wednesday, October 12, 2011 4:40 PM
