Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Crown CR-330 battery?
The Crown CR-330 is a 6VDC commercial deep cycle flooded lead acid battery rated at 330Ah at the 20-hour rate. It is designed for repeated charge and discharge cycles in solar energy storage, renewable energy systems, backup power, RVs, marine equipment, electric vehicles, floor machines, and other demanding applications.
Why is the Crown CR-330 used in solar battery banks?
The Crown CR-330 provides high amp-hour capacity in a 6VDC battery, making it useful for building larger 12VDC, 24VDC, or 48VDC flooded lead acid battery banks. Its deep cycle design is intended for applications that regularly charge and discharge the batteries.
How much rated energy does the Crown CR-330 provide?
The Crown CR-330 is rated at 330Ah at the 20-hour rate and provides approximately 1.92 kWh of rated energy storage at that rate. Actual energy available from a solar battery bank will depend on discharge rate, temperature, battery condition, charging, and depth of discharge.
How should Crown CR-330 batteries be connected for different system voltages?
The Crown CR-330 is a 6VDC battery, so common series configurations include:
- Two Crown CR-330 batteries in series for a 12VDC battery bank
- Four Crown CR-330 batteries in series for a 24VDC battery bank
- Eight Crown CR-330 batteries in series for a 48VDC battery bank
Parallel strings can be added when greater amp-hour capacity is required. Battery banks should use properly matched batteries and consistent cable and connection arrangements.
Charging & Maintenance
What charging settings should I use for the Crown CR-330?
Use a solar charge controller configured for flooded lead acid batteries and follow Crown's charging recommendations for the installation. The charging system should be properly matched to the battery-bank voltage and capacity. Chronic undercharging should be avoided because it can contribute to sulfation and reduced capacity.
When should I add water to the Crown CR-330?
Check the electrolyte level regularly and add distilled or de-mineralized water when necessary. Crown recommends establishing a watering schedule by inspecting new flooded batteries approximately every two weeks. Watering frequency can increase with heavier cycling, higher temperatures, or battery age.
Should the Crown CR-330 be watered before or after charging?
Watering should normally be performed after the battery has been fully charged, unless the electrolyte level is below the plates, in which case enough distilled or de-mineralized water should be added to cover the plates before charging. Do not overfill the cells.
How can I reduce corrosion on Crown CR-330 battery terminals?
Keep the battery clean and dry, inspect the connections regularly, and make sure the terminals are properly tightened according to the applicable Crown specifications. Corrosion, loose connections, and poor cable connections can increase resistance and reduce system performance.
Can the Crown CR-330 be used in an enclosed battery compartment?
The Crown CR-330 is a flooded lead acid battery and can produce hydrogen gas during charging. The battery compartment must provide appropriate ventilation, and the battery should be kept away from sparks, flames, and other ignition sources.
Crown Battery Comparison
How does the Crown CR-330 compare with the Crown CR-305?
The Crown CR-330 and Crown CR-305 are both 6VDC Group 902 commercial deep cycle flooded lead acid batteries. The Crown CR-330 provides 330Ah compared with 305Ah for the Crown CR-305, resulting in approximately 1.92 kWh versus 1.78 kWh of rated 20-hour energy storage. Both use the same listed dimensions, while the Crown CR-330 is slightly heavier and provides more capacity.
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Specification
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CR-305
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CR-330
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Voltage
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6VDC
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6VDC
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Capacity (20 Hr)
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305Ah
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330Ah
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Capacity (5 Hr)
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255Ah
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270Ah
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Storage kWh (20 Hr)
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1.78 kWh
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1.92 kWh
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Reserve Capacity
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170 min @ 75A
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190 min @ 75A
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Dimensions
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12.19 x 7.19 x 14.13 in (31.0 x 18.3 x 35.9 cm)
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12.19 x 7.19 x 14.13 in (31.0 x 18.3 x 35.9 cm)
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Weight
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90 lbs (40.8 kg)
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93 lbs (42.2 kg)
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Terminal Type
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Dual post/Stud combination
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Dual post/Stud combination
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What is the difference between the Crown CR-330 and Crown CR-350?
The Crown CR-330 and Crown CR-350 are both 6VDC Group 902 flooded deep cycle batteries with the same listed dimensions. The Crown CR-350 provides 350Ah compared with 330Ah for the Crown CR-330, increasing rated 20-hour energy storage from 1.92 kWh to 2.04 kWh. The Crown CR-330 is lighter, while the Crown CR-350 is better suited when maximizing capacity within the same battery footprint is the priority.
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Specification
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CR-330
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CR-350
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Voltage
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6VDC
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6VDC
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Capacity (20 Hr)
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330Ah
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350Ah
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Capacity (5 Hr)
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270Ah
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290Ah
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Storage kWh (20 Hr)
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1.92 kWh
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2.04 kWh
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Reserve Capacity
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190 min @ 75A
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210 min @ 75A
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Dimensions
|
12.19 x 7.19 x 14.13 in (31.0 x 18.3 x 35.9 cm)
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12.19 x 7.19 x 14.13 in (31.0 x 18.3 x 35.9 cm)
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Weight
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93 lbs (42.2 kg)
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101 lbs (45.8 kg)
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Terminal Type
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Dual post/Stud combination
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Dual post/Stud combination
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Solar Application & Battery Life
How deeply should the Crown CR-330 be discharged in a solar system?
For regular solar cycling, avoiding unnecessary deep discharges can help extend battery life. Crown's published CR-330 testing shows that shallower discharge levels provide more cycles than repeated full discharges. Proper battery-bank sizing can help prevent excessive daily discharge.
How long can the Crown CR-330 last in a solar application?
Crown's published stationary testing estimates approximately:
- 500 cycles at 100% depth of discharge
- 1,200 cycles at 50% depth of discharge
- 1,500 cycles at 40% depth of discharge
- 3,000 cycles at 20% depth of discharge
These figures are estimates from Crown's test conditions and should not be considered a guaranteed field lifespan. Actual service life will vary with charging, temperature, maintenance, cycling, and installation conditions.
How does temperature affect the Crown CR-330 in a solar system?
Flooded lead acid battery performance is temperature dependent. Cold temperatures can reduce available capacity, while high temperatures can accelerate battery aging. Crown recommends maintaining appropriate operating conditions and avoiding prolonged exposure to excessive heat.
Can the Crown CR-330 be installed outdoors for an off-grid solar system?
The Crown CR-330 can be used in renewable energy systems, but the installation location must protect the battery from unsuitable environmental conditions and provide proper ventilation. The battery should remain upright and be installed according to applicable electrical and battery installation requirements.
Is the Crown CR-330 maintenance-free for solar applications?
No. The Crown CR-330 is a flooded lead acid battery and requires periodic maintenance, including electrolyte inspection and watering. Customers who want to minimize routine watering may want to consider another battery technology, but the replacement must be compatible with the solar system's charging equipment and operating requirements.
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