Maintenance, test schedules, and testing procedures that can be used to optimize the life and performance of permanently installed, vented lead-acid storage batteries used for standby power applications are provided. This recommended practice also provides guidance to determine when batteries should be replaced. This recommended practice is applicable to all stationary applications. However, specific applications, such as emergency lighting units and semiportable equipment, may have other appropriate practices and are beyond the scope of this recommended practice.

This recommended practice is limited to providing recommended practices of maintenance, test schedules, and testing procedures that can be used to optimize the life and performance of large lead storage batteries. It also provides guidance to determine when batteries should be replaced. There are other test procedures and replacement techniques used within the industry (especially for smaller substation batteries) which are equally as effective but are beyond the scope of this recommended practice. Sizing, installation, qualification, other battery types, and application are also beyond the scope of this recommended practice. This recommended practice does not include any other component of the dc system nor surveillance and testing of the dc system, even though the battery is part of that system. Pre-operational and periodic dc system tests of chargers and other dc components may require that the battery be connected to the system. Details for these tests will depend on the requirements of the dc system and are beyond the scope of this recommended practice.