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FranklinWH•aPower

Analysis by Marcus & Team

FranklinWH aPower Battery Internal Short Circuit Alert

Troubleshooting a FranklinWH aPower battery internal short circuit. Diagnose and resolve issues safely. Call a qualified electrician.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What are the typical signs of battery overheating in a FranklinWH aPower system?

Signs include elevated surface temperature, unusual odors, hissing sounds, and swelling of battery modules. The system may also display an over-temperature fault.

•How often should I inspect my FranklinWH aPower system for potential issues?

A visual inspection should be performed monthly, checking for any signs of damage, leakage, or overheating. A professional inspection should be scheduled annually.

•What PPE is required when working on a FranklinWH aPower battery system?

Minimum PPE includes insulated gloves rated for the system voltage, eye protection (safety glasses or face shield), and appropriate clothing to protect against arc flash hazards.

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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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Common Causes:

Manufacturing defect within a battery cell, leading to internal shorting.
Physical damage to a battery module, compromising cell separators and causing a short.
Degradation of cell separators over time, increasing the risk of internal shorting due to dendrite formation.
Overcharging or over-discharging the battery, accelerating cell degradation and increasing short circuit risk.
Thermal stress due to inadequate ventilation or extreme ambient temperatures.
BMS malfunction failing to detect and mitigate abnormal current flow.

Important Warnings:

Internal short circuits pose a significant fire risk. High DC voltages are present in the system, presenting a shock hazard. Do not attempt to open or repair the battery modules. Only qualified personnel should handle the system. Follow NEC 690 and manufacturer guidelines for safe operation and maintenance. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including insulated gloves and eye protection.

Solution:

1

Immediately disconnect the AC power supply to the FranklinWH aPower system.
2

Locate and operate the DC disconnect switch to isolate the battery bank. Verify 0V DC using a calibrated multimeter at the inverter DC input terminals after disconnect, in accordance with NEC 690.15.
3

Allow the battery to cool down completely before further inspection. Monitor temperature with an IR thermometer from a safe distance. Note any unusual odors.
4

Visually inspect the battery modules for any signs of swelling, leakage, or physical damage.
5

Use the FranklinWH monitoring app or installer portal to check individual cell voltages reported by the BMS. Significant voltage differences (e.g., >0.2V) between cells within a module may indicate a shorted cell.
6

Contact FranklinWH technical support for further assistance and warranty claim procedures. Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the battery modules yourself.
7

A qualified electrician, trained in NEC 706 and energy storage system safety, must inspect the system and replace the faulty battery module(s) according to manufacturer specifications.

Observed Symptoms:

System displays an "Internal Short Circuit" error via the monitoring app or on the unit itself. Battery capacity is significantly reduced or unavailable. System may shut down unexpectedly. Potential for elevated battery temperature.

Technical Recommendation:

Access the installer portal using the serial number of the aPower unit. Navigate to the "Cell Voltage" section to view real-time cell voltage data. This data can provide early warning signs of cell imbalance and potential short circuit development. Check for consistently low voltage in specific cells or modules.

Technical Overview:

The FranklinWH aPower system comprises lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery modules, a Battery Management System (BMS), and power conversion electronics. The BMS continuously monitors cell voltages, currents, and temperatures to ensure safe operation within defined limits. An internal short circuit within a battery cell or module results in uncontrolled current flow, generating heat and potentially leading to thermal runaway. The BMS should detect this condition and trigger a fault, shutting down the system for safety.

Preventative Care:

Ensure proper ventilation around the battery system to prevent overheating. Check ventilation openings are not obstructed.
Monitor the system performance regularly through the FranklinWH monitoring app.
Keep the system firmware updated to the latest version.
Schedule periodic inspections by a qualified technician to check for any signs of degradation or potential issues.
Avoid deep discharging the battery below the recommended SOC limits.