Even with proper design and installation, LiFePO₄ energy storage batteries may encounter various issues during daily operation. Understanding common problems and knowing how to solve them helps users maintain high system reliability and avoid unnecessary downtime.
This article provides a professional troubleshooting guide for end-users and installers.
1. Problem: Battery SOC Drops Too Fast
Possible Causes
- Excessive load
- Low PV production
- Battery aging
- Incorrect SOC calibration
- Poor BMS efficiency
Solutions
✔ Reduce high-power loads
✔ Perform full charge calibration
✔ Check cell voltage imbalance
✔ Inspect inverter for hidden consumption
✔ Upgrade to a larger capacity battery if needed
2. Problem: Battery Not Charging Properly
Causes
- Low temperature (charger blocked)
- PV insufficient
- Wrong charging settings
- Damaged charger/inverter
- Loose cable connections
- BMS protection triggered
Solutions
✔ Check charging temperature
✔ Review inverter charging settings
✔ Inspect charging cables
✔ Reset BMS if overcurrent/overvoltage triggered
✔ Update inverter/BMS firmware
3. Problem: Battery Heats Up During Light Load
Causes
- Internal resistance increase
- Aging or weak cells
- Poor ventilation
- Loose terminals generating heat
Solutions
✔ Tighten all connections
✔ Improve ventilation in the cabinet
✔ Reduce ambient temperature
✔ Check if internal resistance is rising abnormally
4. Problem: Cell Voltage Imbalance
Causes
- Uneven aging
- High charge/discharge current
- Poor manufacturing quality
- Inadequate balancing time
Solutions
✔ Perform full charge to enable BMS balancing
✔ Reduce load temporarily
✔ Update BMS algorithm
✔ If severe, request replacement from manufacturer
5. Problem: Communication Failure (CAN/RS485)
Causes
- Loose ports
- Incorrect protocol selection
- EMI interference
- Damaged communication cable
Solutions
✔ Reseat cables
✔ Select correct inverter protocol (e.g., Pylon, BYD, HIZN, etc.)
✔ Avoid placing data cables near AC wiring
✔ Replace faulty communication cables
6. Problem: Battery Shuts Down Unexpectedly
Possible Reasons
- Low voltage cutoff
- High temperature cutoff
- Overcurrent shutdown
- Severe imbalance
- BMS internal fault
Troubleshooting Steps
✔ Check BMS log
✔ Allow battery to rest for 5–10 minutes
✔ Recharge to recover voltage
✔ Inspect environment temperature
✔ Run diagnostic tool if provided
7. Preventive Tips to Avoid Common Problems
✔ Maintain SOC between 20–90%
✔ Keep battery in a cool, ventilated environment
✔ Update firmware regularly
✔ Clean dust from cabinet and inverter
✔ Avoid excessive discharge currents
✔ Inspect terminals every 2–3 months
These preventive measures are extremely effective for extending cycle life and minimizing faults.
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