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Actually, the typical Magic Eye (TM) setup uses float(s) of calibrated specific gravity, and so as long as the electrolyte level is above the minimum required will give a crude go/no-go indication at that one SG value. But the "reading" is a compromise value and is not temperature compensated. Therefore it is of little value to the off grid PV system operator. -
> The built in magic eye is showing green
The built in magic eye only indicates fluid level, seldom state of chargeLeave a comment:
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What is the actual gravity reading you get when checking the batteries. And have you taken a voltage measurement first thing in the morning? (Let it charge up the day before and don't use any power from the battery overnight)
How old are your batteries?Leave a comment:
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Hydrometer readings
I have a question regarding flooded lead acid batteries if I may.
I have a small solar shed setup, and I recently decided to get a hydrometer to test the batteries. The charge controller regularly shows its in float mode, however the hydrometer shows that most of the cells the cells require charging and are in the red zone and are all slightly different.
The built in magic eye is showing green, so I don't know how reliable that is.
Here is my set up :-
600 Watts of solar, 6 panels of 100w 12v in parallel.
30 amp PWM Charge Controller
2x 70AH 12v FLA in parallel
1000 watt inverter,
I realise my battery bank is lacking in size, and they are second hand batteries, but it only powers an 80w 1990's midi hifi, some led lights and every now and a gain a small bench pillar drill an a small soldering iron.
I don't have an issue with available solar power - just the fact the charge controller only ever shows bulk - and float, along with my recent SG which suggest otherwise.
The charge controller is this one :- https://www.amazon.co.uk/Esky-Intell.../dp/B013HK2OOE
Its no longer available, its was a cheap and nasty job. I have only posted a link to it so you can see what it actually is.
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