Battery Usage Precautions

Batteries have become indispensable power storage devices in modern life. Whether in smartphones, power tools, or UPS systems, proper battery usage is crucial for ensuring safety and prolonging their lifespan. Here are some important considerations for using batteries effectively:

1. Temperature Control
   Batteries perform differently under varying temperatures. For optimal performance, it is recommended to use batteries in environments with a temperature range of +5°C to +30°C, with 25°C being the ideal temperature. High temperatures can significantly shorten a battery’s lifespan by accelerating the chemical reactions inside the battery, leading to reduced capacity and performance. On the other hand, low temperatures can reduce battery capacity, so it is important to avoid extreme temperatures.
2. Avoid Mixing Different Brands and Models
   It is essential not to mix batteries of different brands, capacities, or ages. Different brands and models may have different chemical compositions and charge/discharge characteristics, and mixing them can lead to incompatibility, increasing the risk of short circuits or damage. This is especially critical in UPS battery systems, where mixed batteries can compromise overall performance and safety.
3. Prevent Hydrogen Gas from Causing Fire or Explosion
   During use, batteries can release hydrogen gas, particularly during charging. If the area is poorly ventilated or near a heat source, hydrogen gas can accumulate, forming an explosive mixture. Therefore, always ensure that the charging area is well-ventilated and free from flames or hot objects to reduce the risk of explosions.
4. Maintain Clean Environment
   Batteries should be used in clean, dust-free environments. Excessive dust can accumulate on the battery’s surface and create conductive paths, potentially leading to short circuits. This is especially critical in UPS and large energy storage systems. Regular cleaning of the battery and its surroundings is essential for ensuring smooth operation.
5. Recharge Batteries Promptly After Discharge
   After a battery has discharged, it is important to recharge it promptly. If a partially charged battery is allowed to discharge again, its capacity will gradually decrease and could even be damaged. Always use a charger that is compatible with the battery to ensure safe and efficient charging. Over-discharging should be avoided, as it can severely shorten the battery’s lifespan.
6. Proper Load for UPS Systems
   In UPS systems, avoid operating the UPS with too light a load. For example, a 1KVA UPS with only a 150VA load may cause deep discharge of the battery. Deep discharge can damage the battery, accelerating aging. Therefore, it is essential to match the load to the UPS’s rated power to ensure the battery remains in a proper operating state.
7. Proper Discharge Helps Activate the Battery
   If a battery is connected to a constant power source, it may develop a “memory effect,” where it only charges and discharges within a narrow range. To prevent this, it is recommended to perform 2-4 manual discharges per year. Discharge the battery using the existing load, and the discharge time should be around 1/4 to 1/3 of the backup time, which helps maintain battery health and performance.
8. Regular Charging and Discharging for Long-Term Stored Batteries
   For batteries that are not used for long periods (e.g., UPS batteries), they should be charged before storage. Even when not in use, batteries should be recharged and discharged every six months. Typically, charge the battery for 4 to 10 hours, then let it operate in inverter mode for 2-3 minutes to check its health and prevent failure due to long-term inactivity.

Conclusion
Proper use and maintenance of batteries are critical for their lifespan and safety. By controlling temperature, avoiding mixing different types of batteries, ensuring safe charging environments, and regularly charging and discharging, the battery’s performance and longevity can be greatly improved. Adhering to these precautions will ensure that batteries provide reliable power when needed most.