RE: [A/S] Univolt overcharging

["Oliver Filippi" <ofilippi@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

16 volts sounds kind of high, but not that far off.  I'm sure someone on the
list will provide you with the exact voltage.

However, I think you should understand a little more about the role of the
inverter and its role in charging and maintaining your battery.

The old Univolts OVERCHARGE!!!(fully charged batteries) and UNDER CHARGE low
charged batteries.  The overcharging problem is particularly serious with
the newer "Maintenance Free" batteries which are almost impossible for one
to add water (electrolyte) to replace that boiled off by over charging.

The reason for all this is that the older Univolts (though built like tanks)
are SINGLE Voltage DC power supplies.  Lead acid batteries can take 1) a
heavy charge (higher voltage)when they have a low charge (though the heat
must be monitored), 2) a modest charge (just above the 12.7 volt output
level) when they are fully charged (to maintain the full charge), and 3) a
"jolt charge" (there is a better name for this but it escapes me now) every
couple of days, when the battery is kept at full charge, to prevent
"Stratification" where the electrolyte (battery acid) form layers of
different sulphuric acid concentration.  When this happens, the battery
cannot deliver it's full power rating and acts as though it is significantly
below a full charge.

The obvious solution is a "Smart" charger which can vary its output voltage
depending upon the condition of the battery.  A good example is the
Progressive Dynamics Intellisync with the Charge Wizard (a computer
controller) which varies the output voltage of the converter based on
battery condition.

The Univolt is a brute force charger with a SINGLE compromise output voltage
(good for its day, but far from ideal). Thus, it provides a lower than
optimum output when the battery could take more, and too high an output when
the battery is fully charged, and cannot deal with the stratification
problem at all - but simply boils off the electrolyte once the battery is
fully charged!

Consider replacing the Univolt with the Intellisync/Charge Wizard.  It is
lighter and does not hummmm (Buzzzzz) and is a lot easier on your
battery(s).

I can also tell you how to make the "Power On" light on the control pannel
function when the newer type converters (chargers) are actived.

Good luck,

Oliver Filippi