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FranklinWH•aPower

Analysis by Marcus & Team

FranklinWH aPower: High Battery Temperature Alert

Troubleshoot a FranklinWH aPower high temperature alert. Check ventilation, BMS, and thermal sensors. Prioritize safety and NEC compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the optimal ambient temperature for the FranklinWH aPower system?

The optimal ambient temperature range for the FranklinWH aPower system is typically between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Refer to the manufacturer's datasheet for precise specifications.

•How do I access the BMS data logs for the FranklinWH aPower system?

You can access the BMS data logs via the FranklinWH monitoring app or the installer portal. Contact FranklinWH support for access credentials and instructions.

•What are the signs of cell imbalance in a lithium-ion battery?

Signs of cell imbalance include significant voltage variations between cells, reduced capacity, accelerated degradation, and increased heat generation during charging or discharging.

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Marcus leads the technical research department at Storage Faults. Together with a team of systems analysts, he specializes in translating complex solar storage error codes into actionable diagnostic steps for the US market.

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Technical Background:

The FranklinWH aPower system utilizes a Battery Management System (BMS) to monitor cell temperatures via Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) thermistors. The BMS regulates charging and discharging to prevent thermal runaway. High temperature can result from cell imbalance, excessive current draw, or cooling system malfunction. The system interacts with the grid via a DC/AC inverter, maintaining synchronization and power factor correction. DC bus voltage is typically around 400VDC. NEC Article 706 covers energy storage system system.

Why This Happens:

Insufficient ventilation around the aPower unit, hindering heat dissipation.
Malfunctioning cooling fans or blocked ventilation pathways.
Faulty NTC thermistor(s) providing inaccurate temperature readings to the BMS.
Imbalanced cell voltages within the battery module, leading to localized heating.
BMS software error misinterpreting temperature data or failing to trigger cooling mechanisms.
Excessive charge/discharge current exceeding the battery's C-rate limits.

Pro Tip:

Check the FranklinWH installer portal for any known issues related to high temperature alerts on the aPower system. Often there are diagnostic procedures provided that are specific to the FranklinWH ecosystem.

Critical Safety Precautions:

High DC voltage is present within the aPower system. Only qualified electricians with experience in battery storage systems should perform diagnostic and repair procedures. Follow all applicable NEC guidelines and manufacturer safety protocols. Arc flash hazard exists. Always use appropriate PPE.

Recommended Action:

1

*Safety First**: Disconnect the AC power to the aPower system and engage the DC disconnect switch as per NEC 690.13 &
2

Verify complete power shutdown using a calibrated multimeter.
3

*Visual inspection**: Check for obstructions blocking the ventilation inlets and outlets of the aPower unit. Ensure adequate clearance around the system as specified by the manufacturer's system manual.
4

*Thermal Imaging**: Use an IR thermometer to scan the surface of the aPower unit, identifying any hotspots indicative of localized heating. Note the ambient temperature.
5

*Fan Check**: Visually inspect and manually test the cooling fans. Ensure they are operating smoothly and at the correct speed. Replace faulty fans.
6

*BMS Diagnostics**: Access the BMS data logs via the FranklinWH monitoring app or installer portal. Analyze temperature readings from individual sensors and identify any anomalies. Note cell voltages.
7

*Thermistor Testing**: If possible, disconnect (after complete shutdown and verification of no voltage) and test the NTC thermistors using a multimeter to verify resistance values against the manufacturer's specifications. Replace faulty thermistors. Only qualified personnel are allowed to perform this step.
8

*Firmware Update**: Ensure the aPower system is running the latest firmware version. Outdated firmware may contain bugs that affect temperature monitoring and control.

Preventative Care:

Schedule regular maintenance checks to ensure proper ventilation and cooling system operation
Monitor the system's performance via the FranklinWH app
Perform periodic capacity testing to assess battery health and identify potential cell imbalances
Ensure the system software is always up to date
Check for any alerts on the system