How to Test Fire Batteries

Batteries used within the Fire industry are required to be tested according to Australian Standards. Each state government has its own extra testing requirements. Along with Australian Standards, the Fire Protection Association of Australia (FPAA) have certain recommendations that need to be followed. Luckily for our clients, Valen Power has the preferred battery tester.   

What Battery Tester Should I Use? 

Australian Standard AS1851.2012 requires batteries to be load tested. The Constant Current Load Tester (CCOLT) meets the tester requirements necessary for this standard. The CCOLT is designed to test large batteries by applying a constant current load.  

• Current drain, cut-off voltage and duration may be configured and the CCOLT will monitor the voltage and time elapsed during a test.  

• The CCOLT will automatically disconnect the load once the selected cut-off voltage is reached.  

• The CCOLT can be connected to a computer and the reports exported to be saved with the completed site report.  

Battery Capacity Testing Procedure (according to AS1851.2012) 

1. Prior to testing, ensure the battery is fully charged with the correct charging voltage.  

2. Set the battery tester (Constant Current Load Tester) to a discharge current of 0.8 x C20/1A (e.g. a 100Ah battery is tested at 80A), subtract the quiescent current if the test is to take place without disconnecting the battery from the system.  

3. Record the total load current used.  

4. Where the battery is to be tested without being disconnected from the system, isolate the mains supply just before the commencement of the battery condition test.  

5. Apply the test load for 25minutes or until the battery terminal voltage falls to the minimum test voltage of 21V (for a 24V battery set).  

6. If the battery terminal voltage does not fall below 21V during the 25minute test, record the final test voltage and mark as a pass.  

7. Restore the system to allow the battery to begin to recharge.  

What Battery is Best to Replace Fire Batteries?

When conducting battery replacements, ensure the batteries are SSL (Scientific Services Laboratory) Approved and AS4029.2 compliant such as Valen’s Topin AGM Battery Range. All batteries replaced must meet the FPAA recommendations which are:  

• Batteries should be Absorbent Glass Matt (AGM) type to reduce the likelihood of failure or explosion.  

• Replace any flooded-cell lead-acid battery with an AGM type battery. Please note this may require the charging voltage to be adjusted.  

• Install appropriate warning signage, such as Battery Warning Stickers.  

Do’s and Don’ts 

• All batteries installed must meet the FPAA requirements mentioned above. 

• Batteries must be tested correctly to ensure they will work when required to.  

• Installing incorrect batteries can cause damage to both property and people. 

• Installing incorrect batteries can cause the equipment they are connected to, to malfunction.  

• Avoiding or deferring battery testing and battery replacement will potentially place lives at risk when the equipment is required.  

Valen are your End-to-End Solution Provider of Fire Batteries, Battery Testing Equipment and Accessories such as Battery Warning Stickers.

Contact the experts on:  
AU: 1300 734 253 [email protected] | NZ: 0800 734 253 [email protected]