Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best 12 volt deep cycle agm battery

Deep-Cycle Batteries: A Complete Guide

Deep-cycle batteries are designed for repeated discharging and recharging. They are commonly used in applications such as golf carts, RVs, and solar power systems. Regular maintenance is essential to maximize a deep-cycle battery's lifespan. This maintenance includes inspecting the battery's fluid level and voltage after charging. A hydrometer and DC voltage meter can be used for these inspections.

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WHAT IS A DEEP-CYCLE BATTERY?

Deep-cycle batteries may resemble car batteries to the untrained eye, but they are fundamentally different. A deep-cycle battery is a lead battery designed to provide sustained power over a prolonged period. It can typically be discharged up to 80% or more before requiring a recharge. Although it can be removed up to 80%, most manufacturers recommend not discharging below 45% to extend the battery's lifespan.

The discharge level characterizes a "deep cycle," contrasting with other battery types that provide short bursts of energy before needing recharging. For instance, a starter battery discharges only a small percentage—usually 2% to 5%—each usage.

TYPES OF DEEP-CYCLE BATTERIES

• Flooded deep-cycle batteries: The most common type, these are relatively inexpensive and easy to find. However, they require regular maintenance, such as adding distilled water to the electrolyte.
• Sealed deep-cycle batteries: Known as maintenance-free batteries, these do not require distilled water addition, making them easier to maintain but more expensive than flooded deep-cycle batteries.
• Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries: AGM batteries possess a glass mat that absorbs the electrolyte, ensuring more even distribution throughout the battery for improved performance and lifespan.
• Gel batteries: Gel batteries incorporate a gelling agent to thickens the electrolyte, helping prevent leaks.
• Lithium-ion batteries: A newer type, they are lighter and have a longer lifespan. They can be deeply discharged without damage but come at a higher price than lead-acid batteries.

THE COMPONENTS OF DEEP-CYCLE BATTERIES

Both flooded and sealed deep-cycle batteries share certain components:

• Lead plates: The active part of the battery, reacting with the electrolyte to generate electricity.
• Electrolyte: A mixture of sulfuric acid and water, conducts electricity and facilitates the chemical reaction between lead plates.
• Case: Protects the battery from damage and holds other components in place.

APPLICATION

When choosing a deep-cycle battery, the intended use is crucial. Here are several situations that influence your selection:

Stationary or Level Equipment

For vehicles that remain level or stationary, a flooded deep-cycle battery may be appropriate. Flooded batteries are cost-effective and readily available, but they must be used upright and require frequent maintenance.

Examples: Forklifts, renewable energy storage

Variable Conditions

In environments where temperature and power needs fluctuate, a VRLA battery like an AGM may be most suitable. VRLA batteries are sealed, reducing the risk of internal damage, and are versatile in their usage orientation.

Examples: Boats, RVs

Maintenance Capabilities

VRLA batteries are also a better choice when regular maintenance is challenging. While all deep-cycle batteries require charging according to specifications, if you cannot frequently water your battery, consider a VRLA type.

BATTERY SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

SAFETY FIRST

Be aware of the risks when handling batteries. Wear personal protective equipment (goggles, gloves, etc.), remove metallic objects, and work in a well-ventilated area. For accurate battery condition readings, charge the battery fully before inspections or let it sit for one hour after use if charging isn’t possible.

CHECK FOR DAMAGE

Often, battery issues can be detected visually by looking for:

• Broken or loose terminals: Damaged or corroded terminals can lead to short circuits.
• Leaking or damaged battery case: A leak indicates a damaged case in flooded batteries. Operating a battery with a damaged case is hazardous while leakage typically does not occur in AGM batteries.
• Dirt and grime: Check for corrosive buildup on the battery and terminals, which could contribute to self-discharge.

SIMPLE AND SAFE INSPECTION PROCESS

FLUID INSPECTION

• Utilize a hydrometer to measure the specific gravity of the battery fluid.
• The hydrometer readings of all cells should be at least 1.225 after charging, with less than a 50-point difference between the highs and lows.
• A healthy, charged battery will show clear fluid without discoloration and a hydrometer reading of 1.265.

VOLTAGE INSPECTION

• Check the battery voltage after charging to gauge health.
• Recharge batteries showing less than 100% voltage before use. A 12-volt battery should read 12.6 volts or higher post-charge; a 6-volt should read 6.4 volts or higher.
• Ensure the battery terminals are free from corrosion before testing.

LOAD TEST INSPECTION

• Batteries must be at 100% voltage prior to a load test.
• Remove all battery cables before performing the load test.
• Apply a 15-second load equivalent to 50% of the battery's CCA rating using a load tester.
• Consult the load tester's minimum passing voltage to gauge battery condition; replace the battery if the test voltage falls below this threshold.

If your battery performs poorly, refer to our seasonal brochure for troubleshooting tips for deep-cycle and AGM batteries.

CHECK NOW TO SAVE BIG LATER

Similar to car maintenance, neglecting minor battery issues may lead to significant problems over time, resulting in potentially costly damage. Regular inspections and tests can help maximize your deep cycle battery's lifespan.

Deep Cycle Battery: Everything You Need to Know

Understanding battery basics, such as cycles and depth of discharge (DoD), is vital before discussing deep-cycle batteries. A complete cycle refers to a full discharge and recharge. Discharge is measured by the capacity removed from the battery, with DoD indicating how much battery capacity has been consumed during a single discharge. A full discharge equates to 100% DoD.

DoD and the state of charge (SoC)—how much charge remains in the battery—are inversely related: 100% DoD equals 0% SoC.

A deep discharge is classified as 80% to 100% of the capacity discharged from the battery.

What is a Deep Cycle Battery?

A deep cycle battery is specifically designed to handle repeated deep discharges of 80-100% DoD. This does not imply that high-rate batteries can't be utilized for deep discharges; however, consistent deep cycling will severely limit their life.

Types of Deep Cycle Battery

In sealed lead acid (SLA) batteries, electricity is generated in the plates. High-rate batteries have multiple thin plates for quicker energy generation, while deep-cycle batteries feature thicker plates to endure multiple deep discharges.

Subcategories of deep-cycle SLA batteries include deep-cycle gel and AGM. Gel batteries convert electrolyte acid into a thick gel, preventing spills and enhancing heat distribution, while AGM batteries use a glass mat for electrolyte retention, improving surface area utilization.

Lithium deep-cycle batteries utilize energy cells designed for sustained current delivery over long periods, ideal for cyclic applications. The circuitry within lithium batteries is also vital for protection against excessive discharge currents.

Deep-cycle batteries vary in voltage and capacity, with 12V and 24V being the most common options.

Deep Cycle Battery Applications

Before selecting a battery, clarify its intended use, duration, frequency, and power requirements. Deep-cycle batteries are typically used in applications where users dictate when they are needed.

For example, a medical cart requiring unplugged power necessitates a battery that provides consistent power for extended periods.

Another example is a cell phone battery, which should last all day on a single charge without being plugged in until fully drained (100% DOD/0% SOC).

Many applications use deep-cycle battery technology, including marine, leisure (RV), mobility scooters, various electric vehicles, and solar setups.

Conversely, high-rate batteries are recommended for emergency-use applications requiring immediate, high-capacity energy delivery.

How Long Will a Deep Cycle Battery Last?

The primary difference between lead-acid and lithium deep-cycle batteries is cyclic performance. In deep cycling applications, a lithium battery often exceeds the performance of its lead-acid equivalent.

To evaluate a deep-cycle battery's lifespan, measure its cycles rather than time. Lead-acid batteries can typically deliver around 200 cycles, while deep-cycle lithium batteries can achieve over 1000 cycles.

How to Charge a Deep Cycle Battery

To maximize your deep-cycle battery's life and performance, it is crucial to charge it correctly. The ideal charging process depends on the battery's chemistry, voltage, and capacity. Power Sonic offers guides for charging various deep-cycle battery types to ensure longevity.

Deep Cycle Battery Lines

Power Sonic offers two SLA deep cycle battery lines: PDC for standard AGM deep cycle and DCG for deep cycle gel batteries. Additionally, two lithium deep cycle battery lines exist: PSL-SC (series-capable lithium) and PSL-BT (Bluetooth-capable lithium), as well as lithium energy cells for custom lithium deep cycle battery packs.

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