What Do Deep Cycle Battery Specifications Mean
Say youve got a deep cycle battery and its specifications list that it produces:
100Ah at 20 hours, rated 1000 full cycles at 80% DoD
What does this mean?
A. Battery Capacity
The Amp Hour denotes battery capacity and shows how much current can be delivered for a specific time.
A 100Ah battery at 20 hours means it can produce 5 Amps for 20 hours . Deep cycle batteries are typically rated for a 20-hour discharge.
The main thing to understand is that if youre going to load more appliances, youll need a higher battery capacity.
B. Discharge Cycle
The discharge cycle defines how many times a battery can be discharged and charged without reducing performance or capacity.
1000 full cycles simply mean it can be charged and discharged 1000 times. The more full cycles there are, the longer the battery life.
C. Depth Of Discharge
Depth of discharge determines how much of the battery can be discharged safely compared to its original capacity, before it must be recharged.
Deep cycle batteries are meant to discharge more of their energy. An 80% DoD means the battery can discharge down to 20% of its capacity.
What Is The Lifespan Of A Deep Cycle Battery How Long Does It Last
The average life span of deep cycle batteries is 6 years. But like all other batteries, if the deep cycle batteries are maintained at low discharge levels, they will last for a much longer period.
This is almost comparable to the lifespan of other battery technologies. For example,
- Lithium batteries have a life span range of 3-10 years.
- The life span of normal lead acid batteries is around 6 years.
- AGM deep cycle batteries also have a life span of about 6 years.
- GEL deep cycle batteries provide a life span of about 10 years.
> Why Upgrade Agm To Lithium Deep Cycle Batteries
Lithium ion batteries are 50% lighter than AGM batteries and have a usable capacity of 90 -100%. They also have the fastest recharge rate and extremely long cycle life often around 2000-5000 charge cycles. A LiFePO lithium Ion deep cycle battery also offers constant voltage over any rate of discharge. This means your lithium battery powered camping lights wont dim slowly as the battery loses charge. Once theres no more power, the lights will just go out. The most recent type of lithium battery is Lithium Iron Phosphate . LiFePO4 batteries are frequently used in deep cycle applications such as solar energy banks and backup power systems. A quality lithium deep cycle battery is lightweight, compact, maintenance-free with excellent usable discharge capacity, fast recharge rate, and constant voltage. However, its much more expensive than AGM batteries and you need to make sure it has a superior battery maintenance system .
**Note: In a LIthium Deep Cycle Battery the BMS monitors the batterys state and ensures the safety of operation. All Aussie Batteries Lithium range are equipped internally with superior BMS systems up to 150AMPs allowing users to get max power!
100% Environmentally-Friendly Energy
Save on Weight as Lithium are 50% lighter
Draw more usable battery power
WANT TO LEARN EVERYTHING ABOUT BATTERIES WE SUGGEST YOU CHECK OUT THE BATTERY UNIVERSITY
Lithium Batteries are the perfect AGM Upgrade:
Use your Lithium Battery the same as AGM
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Does Alternator Charge Battery While Idling
Yes, the alternator will charge the battery while the vehicle is idling. An alternator is an electrical generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy in the form of alternating current while the vehicle is running.
When the vehicle is idling, the alternator is still spinning, albeit at a much slower speed, allowing it to generate a small amount of electricity and charge the battery. It is important to note, however, that the battery will not be fully charged while the vehicle is idling, and it is recommended to drive the vehicle for at least 15 minutes to ensure that the battery is fully charged.
If the battery does not seem to be charging properly or the battery does not hold a charge for a long period of time, it may be time to replace the battery or alternator.
How Long Will 100ah Battery Last In Cold Weather
All batteries generate power through a chemical reaction and all chemical reaction are affected by temperature the colder it gets, the worse they perform.
In the case a of a car battery, its unfortunate that as the efficiency goes down as the temperature drops, the engine needs more power to crank it.
At 32°F battery power may be down 50% and more than 65% at 0°F . At these low temperatures you can also double the amount of cranking power needed to start your car.
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How Long Do Deep Cycle Batteries Last
- Date: April 13, 2021
- Time to read: 4 min.
Today, deep cycle batteries have become energy sources for several types of vehicles and gadgets. Besides, they are important components of electric systems.
If compared to some batteries, deep cycle batteries offer a better flow of energy. They are also tough and withstand long-term use.
If you want to get a deep cycle battery, you might want to know its lifespan and runtime. Luckily, this post has the answer to your questions.
Factors Affecting The Lifespan Of Deep Cycle Batteries
When it comes to the lifespan of deep cycle batteries, there isnt a fixed number. After all, the same type of batteries might offer different service lives. With this in mind, the lifespan of a deep cycle depends on the following factors.
Charging
If you allow your battery to charge completely, it becomes conditioned and offers excellent service life. But if you charge sporadically, there is a high chance of shortening the lifespan of the cell.
Temperature
Storing batteries in extreme cold can damage them. But if they are well charged and stored in cool areas, you can get extra years of top performance.
Depth of Discharge
Depth of discharge describes the usage of the deep cycle battery. If the device works hard for long hours, it has more depth of discharge and ends up with a shorter lifespan.
Care
Well-maintained deep cycle batteries enjoy high life spans. For this reason, it is advised that you avoid overcharging the battery or excessive discharge.
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Know Your Current Draw & Power Needs
Before you buy a battery, whether Lithium or AGM, you probably need to consider your maximum current draw, based on all the things you could run off the system. A 100AH battery can run a 1000W inverter using 1000W of power. But if using the 1000W load on the inverter, you put the maximum load on your battery, so you’ll need bigger batteries if you are running anything else concurrently. If you don’t forecast your current draw correctly, your battery may appear to handle the higher draw. Still, in reality, you will cook the battery’s cells as it struggles to deliver the power required safely, which may mean you kill your battery much sooner than you should. More AH gives you more energy!
Is It Better To Buy A Cheap Deep Cycle Battery Or A More Expensive One
The answer to this question depends on a few factors. The most important factor is probably the intended use of the battery. If you need a battery for a short-term project, a cheap battery may be fine. However, if you need a battery for a long-term project or for something that requires a lot of power, you may want to invest in a more expensive battery.
Another factor to consider is the quality of the battery. A cheap battery may not last as long as a more expensive battery, so its important to consider how long you need the battery to last. In general, a more expensive battery will be of higher quality and will last longer.
Finally, you should also consider the warranty when choosing a battery. A cheap battery may not have a warranty, or the warranty may not be as good as a more expensive battery. This is something to keep in mind if youre planning on using the battery for a long-term project.
In conclusion, the answer to the question depends on a few factors. The most important factor is probably the intended use of the battery. If you need a battery for a short-term project, a cheap battery may be fine. However, if you need a battery for a long-term project or for something that requires a lot of power, you may want to invest in a more expensive battery.
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What Ruins A Deep Cycle Battery
Deep cycle batteries can be ruined if they are overcharged, deeply discharged, exposed to extreme temperatures, or not treated properly. Overcharging a deep cycle battery causes it to overwork and can result in damage to the cells, leading to reduced capacity and life of the battery.
Deeply discharging the battery will also cause damage, reducing its life and possibly leading to additional damage. Exposure to extreme temperatures such as below-freezing conditions can cause the electrolyte to freeze, damaging the battery.
Poor maintenance and neglect can also cause damage to a deep cycle battery, as this may lead to corrosion of the terminals and decreased energy capacity. To keep a deep cycle battery in top condition, owners should ensure the battery is properly charged, avoid excessively discharging it, maintain an optimal temperature, and check the terminals and cables for any signs of damage.
How Long Will A 100ah Lithium Battery Last Compared To Lead
A lithium-iron phosphate battery is inherently deep-cycle and can be discharge to 95% at normal temperatures with no damage.
LiFePo4 available capacity = 100Ah x 95% = 95Ah
For the rest of this post Im going to assume the use of a lead-acid deep-cycle 100Ah battery as this is still the dominant battery technology in use.
If you wanted to know battery run-time hours for lithium iron phosphate batteries, simply multiply any of the results by 1.189
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How Can You Extend The Lifespan Of A Deep Cycle Battery
A lot of people ask us how they can extend the lifespan of their deep cycle batteries and we always give the same answer by following a few simple tips! Here are our top tips:
1. Keep your battery clean both the terminals and the casing. A build-up of dirt and grime can cause your battery to work less efficiently and shorten its lifespan.
2. Store your battery in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures can damage your battery and shorten its lifespan.
3. Charge your battery regularly. A battery that is regularly charged will last longer than one that is only used occasionally.
4. Follow the manufacturers instructions. This may seem like an obvious one, but its important to make sure youre using your battery in the way that it was intended.
How Long Does A Deep Cycle Battery Last
This is a question that is often asked, but the answer is not always clear. There are a number of factors that can affect how long a deep cycle battery will last, including the type of battery, the quality of the battery, how it is used, and how it is maintained.
Type of Battery
There are two main types of deep cycle batteries: lead-acid and lithium-ion. Lead-acid batteries are the most common type of battery used in golf carts, RVs, and other deep cycle applications. They are less expensive than lithium-ion batteries, but they are also heavier and not as efficient. Lithium-ion batteries are becoming more popular in deep cycle applications because they are lighter, more efficient, and have a longer lifespan than lead-acid batteries.
Quality of Battery
The quality of the battery is also a factor that can affect how long it lasts. A higher-quality battery will typically last longer than a lower-quality battery. This is because a higher-quality battery is made with better materials and is better able to withstand the demands of deep cycle use.
How the Battery is Used
How the battery is used is also a factor that can affect its lifespan. A battery that is only used occasionally will last longer than a battery that is used more frequently. This is because a battery that is only used occasionally is not subject to the same wear and tear as a battery that is used more frequently.
How the Battery is Maintained
Real-Life Example
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What Voltage Is Too Low For A 12 Volt Deep Cycle Battery
The general accepted minimum voltage for a 12 volt deep cycle battery is around 10. 5 volts. A voltage below this is not recommended, as it may lead to irreversible damage to the battery. Furthermore, if the battery is being used as part of an electrical system, the system may not reliably work below this level since it is below the threshold of what is typically considered a 12 volt battery.
If the voltage drops too low, the battery can be permanently damaged and will need to be replaced. Luckily, many types of deep cycle batteries are designed to provide a warning at around 11. 5 volts, so that the consumer can take appropriate action before it drops any lower.
Deep Cycle Battery Ratings: Deep Cycle Batteries Are Generally Rated In Volts And Amps
- Amp-hours are the rated capacity available in chemical energy inside a battery that is converted into electrical energy.
- Amps also refer to the amount of energy that the battery can store, or, it can be called “the discharge rate”. The Discharge rate measures the time it takes to discharge a battery before it needs recharging again.
Here are no-load typical voltages vs state of charge
These Voltages are for a 12-volt battery system. For 24 volt systems, multiply by 2 for 48 volt systems, multiply by 4. These voltages are for batteries that have been at rest for 3 hours or more. Batteries that are being charged will be higher the voltages while under charge will not tell you anything, and you have to let the battery sit for a while.For the most extended life, batteries should stay in the green zone. Occasional dips into the yellow are not harmful, but continual discharges to those levels will shorten battery life considerably. It is essential to realize that voltage measurements are only approximate. The best determination is to measure the specific gravity, but this is difficult or impossible in many batteries. Note the significant voltage drop in the last 10%.
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How Do You Know If A Gel Battery Is Bad
A bad gel battery can cause the car to stall or have problems starting. Here is how to tell if the gel cell battery is bad:
-If the battery is more than three years old, it should be tested. A bad battery can lose up to 20% of its power every year even if the car isnt being driven much or at all. You may need a new gel cell after only two years in storage! This could also indicate that you have an alternator problem.
-Check for corrosion on both terminals with your eye and then touch them with one finger . Corrosion indicates a leaking electrolyte from inside the cells and that would mean there is no way to fix this type of battery without replacing it entirely. Its time to get a new Gel Cell Battery!
-Examine how well each cell is holding a charge when the battery has been properly charged. Cells that are not taking a full charge or cells with any signs of bubbling on top would require replacing the gel battery as well.
-If theres no corrosion and all cells are holding their proper voltage, you may have an alternator problem rather than a bad gel cell battery! Have your car inspected to determine if this could be true before spending money for new batteries or parts in order to fix it.
How Often Should I Refill My Batteries
Flooded batteries have to be watered periodically to maintain their performance and increase their longevity. As the chemical reactions take place some of the water is lost as gas from the vent caps. This means that the acid in the battery will eventually get below the level of the lead plates. Luckily as it is just water that is being lost all that has to go back in is pure water.
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Trickle Chargers Vs Float Chargers
Trickle charging is when a battery is charged with the same amount of current as its self-discharge rate. Doing this keeps the battery full, and the battery will stay full when not in use.
Trickle chargers will charge your battery, but they don’t have a feature to turn the current off once the battery is fully charged.
On the contrary, float charging is charging a battery continuously. Float chargers are equipped with a feature that turns the charging off when the deep cycle battery is completely charged. It will turn on automatically when the battery needs charging.
Here’s a video demonstrating how the two work.
Note: Don’t overcharge your deep cycle batteries to avoid the water in the battery drying out completely!
Battery Cycles Vs Battery Lifetime
Often the lifespan you can expect to get out of your battery is referred to in terms of “cycles”. A battery cycle is one complete discharge and recharge cycle. The discharge state of a battery is often measured in Depth of Discharge . This refers to how far down the battery has been taken, for instance, a battery that has 25% of its capacity remaining would be said to be at 75% DOD. The lifetime of a battery is directly related to the depth of the discharge that it regularly experiences. Lead acid batteries are fickle things. If you subject a deep cycle battery to 80% DOD on a regular basis you will get roughly half the life out of your battery than if you were to cycle it to 50% DOD. While this doesn’t mean that you can’t go down to 80% DOD you should generally try to design your battery banks to allow for cycling at around 50%. Conversely there is also an upper limit on the DOD of a battery, usually, a battery that is only regularly cycled down to 5% or less will not last as long as a battery cycled to 10% or more. This is because on smaller cycles the Lead Dioxide can clump up around the positive plates. On heavier discharges, this would be more of an even film.
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