DEEP CYCLE FAQ SECTION
What are Deep Cycle Batteries?
Deep Cycle Batteries are batteries that are intended for providing power for a long period of time to applications such as powered wheelchairs, storage systems for wind and solar power, recreational vehicles, and more. These batteries provide electrical power, depleting between 40 and 70 percent of their capacity. They differ from car batteries in that car batteries are constantly being recharged whenever the engine is turned on, but deep cycle batteries are only recharged once the charge is significantly depleted. There are several varieties of deep cycle batteries. These include Flooded Lead Acid(FLA) Deep Cycle Batteries, Gel Cell Deep Cycle batteries, and Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries, among others.
Why Do You Need to Replace Your Deep Cycle Battery?
Once your battery is getting towards the end of its expected life, you should have it checked and tested in order to ensure that it is still in good working condition. Batteries are made using fluids that interact in a chemical reaction. Over time, these chemicals simply get old and do not hold a charge anymore. Sulfation is another factor that can cause a deep cycle battery to stop working. This happens when the battery is left to sit without recharging for too long or the plates of a Flooded Acid battery are exposed rather than covered in electrolyte solution.
How Often Should I recharge My Deep Cycle Battery?
Deep cycle batteries need to be monitored when in use to check the charge remaining. There are several excellent testing tools out there for all of the different kinds of deep cycle batteries, such as hydrometers, digital monitors that indicate voltage, or an amp-hour meter. The battery should be charged before the battery has only 20% charge remaining, although ideally it should be recharged at 50%. This helps ensure that your battery will have a long lifespan.
How long do Deep Cycle Batteries Last?
Deep Cycle Batteries are intended to be rechargeable and last for many years. Even under ideal conditions, deep cycle batteries last for differing lengths depending on the type. For example, Flooded Lead Acid and AGM batteries last between 4-8 years. Gel Cell batteries have shorter lifespans of 2-5 years.
Typical Signs Your Deep Cycle Battery is Dead or about to Die:
Your deep cycle battery may be on its way out if you notice some of these signs:
- Battery won’t hold a charge – If you charge the battery and it loses its charge quickly, there may be a chemical imbalance.
- Battery won’t charge to full capacity – If your battery charges just fine and stops charging once it’s reaching capacity, the battery may have a dead cell.
- Low fluid levels – Flooded Lead Acid batteries need fluids. If they dry out or have been dried out for too long, sulfation can occur. This means that the battery plates have been exposed to oxygen and the battery will no longer charge up.
- A bulge or swollen case – This usually indicates that the battery has been overcharged, causing overheating and thus creating a bulge in the casing. This makes the battery unsafe to use.