Comments on: Battery Basics: A Layman's Guide to Batteries http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html Tue, 22 May 2012 02:45:23 -0700 en-us Tue, 22 May 2012 02:45:23 -0700 By: jimmy http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-14 jimmy Sun, 22 Jan 2012 08:06:42 -0800 What is the connection to the battery tocharge a 24volt system What is the connection to the battery tocharge a 24volt system

]]> By: Desmond http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-13 Desmond Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:04:41 -0800 This is just what I need to give me confidence in dealing with a battery issue. Much appreciated. This is just what I need to give me confidence in dealing with a battery issue. Much appreciated.

]]> By: Keith Clemens http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-26 Keith Clemens Mon, 23 Jan 2012 07:38:27 -0800 Just to let you know that your battery basics piece was well written and useful. I appreciate your hard work and your passion for your subject. Just to let you know that your battery basics piece was well written and useful. I appreciate your hard work and your passion for your subject.

]]> By: James http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-30 James Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:50:36 -0800 If you have 2 batteries in series, the voltage increases. The most common form of 24 volt systems involves two 12 volt batteries connected together, a wire from the positive terminal of one battery to the negative on the other. For more information about constructing battery banks, read this helpful article. http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/articles/battery-articles/battery-bank-tutorial.html If you have a 24 volt charger, you must treat your two 12 volt batteries as if they were a single battery. The open terminals on both ends would be the required positive and negative access points. If you have 2 batteries in series, the voltage increases. The most common form of 24 volt systems involves two 12 volt batteries connected together, a wire from the positive terminal of one battery to the negative on the other. For more information about constructing battery banks, read this helpful article.

http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/articles/battery-articles/battery-bank-tutorial.html

If you have a 24 volt charger, you must treat your two 12 volt batteries as if they were a single battery. The open terminals on both ends would be the required positive and negative access points.

]]> By: James http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-31 James Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:50:58 -0800 If you have 2 batteries in series, the voltage increases. The most common form of 24 volt systems involves two 12 volt batteries connected together, a wire from the positive terminal of one battery to the negative on the other. For more information about constructing battery banks, read this helpful article. http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/articles/battery-articles/battery-bank-tutorial.html If you have a 24 volt charger, you must treat your two 12 volt batteries as if they were a single battery. The open terminals on both ends would be the required positive and negative access points. If you have 2 batteries in series, the voltage increases. The most common form of 24 volt systems involves two 12 volt batteries connected together, a wire from the positive terminal of one battery to the negative on the other. For more information about constructing battery banks, read this helpful article.

http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/articles/battery-articles/battery-bank-tutorial.html

If you have a 24 volt charger, you must treat your two 12 volt batteries as if they were a single battery. The open terminals on both ends would be the required positive and negative access points.

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]]> By: john hackney http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-82 john hackney Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:03:29 -0800 Over the last 40 years I have puchased endless numbers of leisure batteries for my caravans none have ever lasted more than 12 mounths althouth I have charged them regularly.My latest one has just failed after 6 mounths and the manufacturers stamp 15 indicates January 2005 surerly this must be one of the reasons they do not last the coarse.I have found out more about batteries since reading Battery Stuff.Com although I am a retired motor engineer,Well Done. Over the last 40 years I have puchased endless numbers of leisure batteries for my caravans none have ever lasted more than 12 mounths althouth I have charged them regularly.My latest one has just failed after 6 mounths and the manufacturers stamp 15 indicates January 2005 surerly this must be one of the reasons they do not last the coarse.I have found out more about batteries since reading Battery Stuff.Com although I am a retired motor engineer,Well Done.

]]> By: Larry http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-96 Larry Fri, 27 Jan 2012 06:51:42 -0800 Is it possible to have 12 volts from a battery and low or weak cca ? Also tell me if im thinking wrong , but I have theory , that a battery is allot like your arm , you arm has the 12 volts and the muscles in your arm potentially are your amps , you can with stand holding weight for a certain amount of time until you become weak and need to relax for a few moments before you can “crank” again , would you say that would be a good example if i were to try and explain how a battery functions to people who don‘t speak english ? Is it possible to have 12 volts from a battery and low or weak cca ? Also tell me if im thinking wrong , but I have theory , that a battery is allot like your arm , you arm has the 12 volts and the muscles in your arm potentially are your amps , you can with stand holding weight for a certain amount of time until you become weak and need to relax for a few moments before you can “crank” again , would you say that would be a good example if i were to try and explain how a battery functions to people who don‘t speak english ?

]]> By: Larry http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-97 Larry Fri, 27 Jan 2012 07:15:22 -0800 Is it possible to have 12 volts from a battery and low or weak cca ? Also tell me if im thinking wrong , but I have theory , that a battery is allot like your arm , you arm has the 12 volts and the muscles in your arm potentially are your amps , you can with stand holding weight for a certain amount of time until you become weak and need to relax for a few moments before you can “crank” again , would you say that would be a good example if i were to try and explain how a battery functions to people who don‘t speak english ? Is it possible to have 12 volts from a battery and low or weak cca ? Also tell me if im thinking wrong , but I have theory , that a battery is allot like your arm , you arm has the 12 volts and the muscles in your arm potentially are your amps , you can with stand holding weight for a certain amount of time until you become weak and need to relax for a few moments before you can “crank” again , would you say that would be a good example if i were to try and explain how a battery functions to people who don‘t speak english ?

]]> By: James http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-100 James Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:23:36 -0800 That is a good example, yes. Some arms have less muscle mass and others have more. But all the same number of muscles in the arm. 12 volt batteries all have 6 cells. Each cell is 2 volts. 2 × 6 = 12. But the cells have plates inside of them. The more plates, the more current can run through, thus more CCA. Large and small batteries all have 6 cells, but the size and number of plates can vary greatly. I hope this helps. That is a good example, yes. Some arms have less muscle mass and others have more. But all the same number of muscles in the arm. 12 volt batteries all have 6 cells. Each cell is 2 volts. 2 × 6 = 12. But the cells have plates inside of them. The more plates, the more current can run through, thus more CCA. Large and small batteries all have 6 cells, but the size and number of plates can vary greatly. I hope this helps.

]]> By: Larry http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-109 Larry Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:35:55 -0800 Is it possible to have 12 volts from a battery and low or weak cca ? Also tell me if im thinking wrong , but I have theory , that a battery is allot like your arm , you arm has the 12 volts and the muscles in your arm potentially are your amps , you can with stand holding weight for a certain amount of time until you become weak and need to relax for a few moments before you can “crank” again , would you say that would be a good example if i were to try and explain how a battery functions to people who don‘t speak english ? Is it possible to have 12 volts from a battery and low or weak cca ? Also tell me if im thinking wrong , but I have theory , that a battery is allot like your arm , you arm has the 12 volts and the muscles in your arm potentially are your amps , you can with stand holding weight for a certain amount of time until you become weak and need to relax for a few moments before you can “crank” again , would you say that would be a good example if i were to try and explain how a battery functions to people who don‘t speak english ?

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]]> By: Ralfon Filho http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-125 Ralfon Filho Sun, 29 Jan 2012 02:00:47 -0800 Bastante util. Gostei. Bastante util. Gostei.

]]> By: john http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-152 john Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:31:06 -0800 if i could rate your article out of ten, i would give it ten. very informative alas i did not solve my problem what is the method of getting a rechargable battery to hold charge, will short overcharging periods do the trick? if i could rate your article out of ten, i would give it ten.
very informative alas i did not solve my problem
what is the method of getting a rechargable battery to hold charge,
will short overcharging periods do the trick?

]]> By: James http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-160 James Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:44:38 -0800 If you‘re referring to a rechargeable lead acid battery, then there could be many reasons why a battery does not “hold a charge”. There could be a parasitic drain. There could be a short or open cell. There could be an internal defect such as a weak weld. Or the battery could simply be deeply discharged, and if you‘re using a smart charger, find that the charger simply will not charge the dead battery. This is primarily due to the low voltage safety disconnect found in most microprocessor controlled chargers. If you‘re referring to a rechargeable lead acid battery, then there could be many reasons why a battery does not “hold a charge”. There could be a parasitic drain. There could be a short or open cell. There could be an internal defect such as a weak weld. Or the battery could simply be deeply discharged, and if you‘re using a smart charger, find that the charger simply will not charge the dead battery. This is primarily due to the low voltage safety disconnect found in most microprocessor controlled chargers.

]]> By: hoxCreep http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-168 hoxCreep Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:15:46 -0800 check cheap replica bags and get big save check cheap replica bags and get big save

]]> By: JAYANTI http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-172 JAYANTI Thu, 02 Feb 2012 03:31:52 -0800 Very important article on rechargeable batteries. We are planning to install Lead Gel batteries in our AS/RS equipments. Shall we go for Lead Gel or AGM type of batteries ? Why ? Give us advantages in terms of cost & safety while selecting the type of battery. Pls help us to decide. thanks Very important article on rechargeable batteries.

We are planning to install Lead Gel batteries in our AS/RS equipments. Shall we go for Lead Gel or AGM type of batteries ? Why ? Give us advantages in terms of cost & safety while selecting the type of battery.
Pls help us to decide.
thanks

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-173 James Ville Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:31:24 -0800 Hello, Gel and AGM batteries are both nice because of the maintenance free nature and sealed case. The Gels are able to deep discharge better (well, with less negative effects than the AGM). However, the Gel battery requires a compatible charger/regulator. Normal wet cels and AGM batteries effectively charge at 14.6 volts or higher. But the Gel battery should be no more than 14.2 volts. It really does make a difference. They are more fragile and can be damaged easier when charging. For more information, please read GEL Vs. AGM. http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/battery-articles/gel-vs-agm.html Hello,

Gel and AGM batteries are both nice because of the maintenance free nature and sealed case. The Gels are able to deep discharge better (well, with less negative effects than the AGM). However, the Gel battery requires a compatible charger/regulator. Normal wet cels and AGM batteries effectively charge at 14.6 volts or higher. But the Gel battery should be no more than 14.2 volts. It really does make a difference. They are more fragile and can be damaged easier when charging.

For more information, please read GEL Vs. AGM.
http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/battery-articles/gel-vs-agm.html

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]]> By: Bert http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-176 Bert Sat, 04 Feb 2012 17:19:46 -0800 Hi, I have an older 4 ×4 truck with no electronics. However, I have an inverter to power (mainly laptops, gadgets), two external lights but no winch. My current alternator is rated at 75amps and my current battery at 80ams / CCA 780 / CR 120. I want to install a split batteyr system (solenoid+monitor) along with another batter (same power or slightly higher). Do I need to upgrade my alternator.. say to a 100 amps? Can a 75amp alternator comfortably charge both batteries..given than I‘m using a “smart” split battery charging system? or am I asking for trouble….ie: a dead alternator? Thanks Hi, I have an older 4 ×4 truck with no electronics. However, I have an inverter to power (mainly laptops, gadgets), two external lights but no winch. My current alternator is rated at 75amps and my current battery at 80ams / CCA 780 / CR 120. I want to install a split batteyr system (solenoid+monitor) along with another batter (same power or slightly higher). Do I need to upgrade my alternator.. say to a 100 amps? Can a 75amp alternator comfortably charge both batteries..given than I\‘m using a \“smart\” split battery charging system? or am I asking for trouble….ie: a dead alternator? Thanks

]]> By: Jeremy http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-178 Jeremy Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:40:27 -0800 You would be best off going with the larger alternator. 75 amps may be enough, but upgrading to the 100 amp system would make sense. You would be best off going with the larger alternator. 75 amps may be enough, but upgrading to the 100 amp system would make sense.

]]> By: Bob G http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-182 Bob G Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:20:56 -0800 Two weeks ago I purchased a new car Buick Enclave that had been on the lot for an extended period of time. Everything seemed to be fine until I took a long trip (10hrs). The next morning I used the remote start to warm up the car then turned it off and continued to load the car using the remote hatch lift several times. About ten minutes later I got in the car and didn‘t have enough battery to start it. I was able to get a boost to start the engine and return home (10hrs). I took the car to the dealer the next morning to have it checked out and was told the battery was good as it checked out at 12.3 volts. Doesn‘t that show a discharged battery? Should the charging system maintain the battery at 12.6 to 12.8 volts? The next step is to have the electrical output checked. I would appreciate your input as to what I should have them check next. Thanks Two weeks ago I purchased a new car Buick Enclave that had been on the lot for an extended period of time. Everything seemed to be fine until I took a long trip (10hrs). The next morning I used the remote start to warm up the car then turned it off and continued to load the car using the remote hatch lift several times. About ten minutes later I got in the car and didn‘t have enough battery to start it. I was able to get a boost to start the engine and return home (10hrs). I took the car to the dealer the next morning to have it checked out and was told the battery was good as it checked out at 12.3 volts. Doesn‘t that show a discharged battery? Should the charging system maintain the battery at 12.6 to 12.8 volts? The next step is to have the electrical output checked. I would appreciate your input as to what I should have them check next. Thanks

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-183 James Ville Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:50:57 -0800 Hello Bob, You are correct. The battery should be reading more than 12.3 volts. If the battery cannot reach over 12.6 volts, then there is likely a sulfation problem. the more sulfation on the plates, the less surface area. in turn, that results to less power and pre-mature failure. Hello Bob,

You are correct. The battery should be reading more than 12.3 volts. If the battery cannot reach over 12.6 volts, then there is likely a sulfation problem. the more sulfation on the plates, the less surface area. in turn, that results to less power and pre-mature failure.

]]> By: Stone Cornwall http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-189 Stone Cornwall Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:54:11 -0800 Hello,we need some Battery equipment to buy,i will like to know if you can supply us with any of this.example below: Sealed Lead Acid Battery 12v,10 to 100ah…for solar backup Sealed lead Batteries 100 to 250Ahms, 12 to 24vots Please reply back soon,to let us know if you have any of it in stock,if yes,please advise unit cost for each. And will like to know if you accept credit card payment. stonecornwall@gmail.com Regards Stone Cornwall Hello,we need some Battery equipment to buy,i will like to know if you can supply us with any of this.example below:

Sealed Lead Acid Battery 12v,10 to 100ah…for solar backup

Sealed lead Batteries 100 to 250Ahms, 12 to 24vots

Please reply back soon,to let us know if you have any of it in stock,if yes,please advise unit cost for each.

And will like to know if you accept credit card payment.

stonecornwall@gmail.com

Regards

Stone Cornwall

]]> By: Denise Keilholtz http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-191 Denise Keilholtz Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:31:30 -0800 hi I am extremely interested in the subject and would like to thank you for clearing up a few things that i had previously not known. hi I am extremely interested in the subject and would like to thank you for clearing up a few things that i had previously not known.

]]> By: Denise Keilholtz http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-192 Denise Keilholtz Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:32:11 -0800 hi I am extremely interested in the subject and would like to thank you for clearing up a few things that i had previously not known. hi I am extremely interested in the subject and would like to thank you for clearing up a few things that i had previously not known.

]]> By: Denise Keilholtz http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-193 Denise Keilholtz Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:32:32 -0800 hi I am extremely interested in the subject and would like to thank you for clearing up a few things that i had previously not known. hi I am extremely interested in the subject and would like to thank you for clearing up a few things that i had previously not known.

]]> By: kris f http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-194 kris f Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:10:58 -0800 hey, i am trying to charge 2 deepcycles in parallel with a 6 amp charger (12v) is this any diffrent than charging a single? hey, i am trying to charge 2 deepcycles in parallel with a 6 amp charger (12v) is this any diffrent than charging a single?

]]> By: James http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-195 James Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:32:19 -0800 When you charge 2 deep cycle batteries in parallel, you’ve essentially doubled your capacity. The charger will recognize your battery bank as a single battery. If your 6 amp charger took 4 hours to charge one battery, it will now take 8 to charge both. The resistance has increased with the increase in capacity, so it will take longer to charge. As for the connections, you can hook your charger to the positive and negative terminal from one battery or both. For a 2 battery system, it doesn’t make a difference. When you charge 2 deep cycle batteries in parallel, you’ve essentially doubled your capacity. The charger will recognize your battery bank as a single battery. If your 6 amp charger took 4 hours to charge one battery, it will now take 8 to charge both. The resistance has increased with the increase in capacity, so it will take longer to charge. As for the connections, you can hook your charger to the positive and negative terminal from one battery or both. For a 2 battery system, it doesn’t make a difference.

]]> By: Z http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-198 Z Fri, 17 Feb 2012 04:37:09 -0800 I have a few questions about sulfation removal. 1. How can a person determine how much sulfation has occurred inside a battery? 2. Which de-sulfation device do you most highly recommend to remove sulfation from battery plates? 3. How much time is required to fully de-desulfate a battery? If the de-sulfation device isn‘t capable of fully de-sulfating a battery, can you let me know how much de-sulfation such a device can provide. Thx, Z I have a few questions about sulfation removal.

1. How can a person determine how much sulfation has occurred inside a battery?
2. Which de-sulfation device do you most highly recommend to remove sulfation from battery plates?
3. How much time is required to fully de-desulfate a battery? If the de-sulfation device isn‘t capable of fully de-sulfating a battery, can you let me know how much de-sulfation such a device can provide.

Thx, Z

]]> By: James http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-199 James Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:58:54 -0800 1)There is no exact way to determine the amount of sulfation, but a hydrometer is helpful. By telling the specific gravity, you can determine the strength of the electrolyte. Typically, the more sulfation on the plates, the weaker the strength of electrolyte. If you have sealed batteries, a hydrometer will not work. 2)If you have a flooded battery, I recommend using Battery Equalizer in conjunction with a pulsing charging, such as Battery MINDer or PulseTech. Exact model will depend on the capacity of your battery. 3)You’ll see the most dramatic results after about 2 weeks of continuous pulsing. The harder, crystallized sulfate which took a long time to build up may take an additional 2 months before reaching a another restore point. On average, a de-sulfated battery may be restored up to 80% of its original factory capacity. 1)There is no exact way to determine the amount of sulfation, but a hydrometer is helpful. By telling the specific gravity, you can determine the strength of the electrolyte. Typically, the more sulfation on the plates, the weaker the strength of electrolyte. If you have sealed batteries, a hydrometer will not work.
2)If you have a flooded battery, I recommend using Battery Equalizer in conjunction with a pulsing charging, such as Battery MINDer or PulseTech. Exact model will depend on the capacity of your battery.
3)You’ll see the most dramatic results after about 2 weeks of continuous pulsing. The harder, crystallized sulfate which took a long time to build up may take an additional 2 months before reaching a another restore point. On average, a de-sulfated battery may be restored up to 80% of its original factory capacity.

]]> By: Todd http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-206 Todd Wed, 22 Feb 2012 18:21:02 -0800 I am purchasing a 125 watt solar panel and want to purchase two 12 volt RV batteries.I dry camp alot and want to be able to maximize my reserve capacity using the solar charging to replenish the drain on the batteries. My question is what size battery re the 20 hr amp rating would you recommend using two twelves and AGM or Gel? I do not winter camp so majority of use is April to Oct. Apprecite your expertise. Thanks TP I am purchasing a 125 watt solar panel and want to purchase two 12 volt RV batteries.I dry camp alot and want to be able to maximize my reserve capacity using the solar charging to replenish the drain on the batteries. My question is what size battery re the 20 hr amp rating would you recommend using two twelves and AGM or Gel? I do not winter camp so majority of use is April to Oct. Apprecite your expertise.

Thanks TP

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-207 James Ville Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:01:36 -0800 If want to size the batteries, you will need to know your load amount. If you have this, please use our Sizing a 12 Volt Battery to a Load Calculator found here: http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/tools/calculator-sizing-a-battery-to-a-load.html If your solar controller has a gel profile, then having a gel battery is not a problem. They can deep discharge better than AGM, but are more expensive. If want to size the batteries, you will need to know your load amount. If you have this, please use our Sizing a 12 Volt Battery to a Load Calculator found here:

http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/tools/calculator-sizing-a-battery-to-a-load.html

If your solar controller has a gel profile, then having a gel battery is not a problem. They can deep discharge better than AGM, but are more expensive.

]]> By: John C http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-208 John C Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:43:46 -0800 Great informative article. Just wondered if you or any of your readers have experienced or heard of problems with BMW automobile batteries? This is a well know and documented issue by many BMW owners and dealers? Due to the inordinate number of battery life failures BMW no longer honors their new car battery warranty. By downloading historical information from the automobile‘s computer the dealer will look for any excuse for blaming the problem on the car owner, e.g., leaving the door open, leaving the key in the car, or not driving the car for several weeks. It seems to me that BMW has a problem with parasitic drain on their cars from about the time that the 2008 models came out. The car computer remains active when the engine is off, still controlling functions that I cannot explain. BMW has not compensated for this parasitic drain by installing a heaver duty (more Amp Hours) battery. I can‘t believe their engineers are this ignorant. An easy saluting would be to parallel two batteries but this would increase the cost of the vehicle by several hundred dollars. That is probably why BMW has taken no action to correct the problem. It is possible that other automobile manufacturers have similar problems. My opinion is that if new batteries cannot be designed to compensate for the heavy parasitic drain then the manufactures need to install two parallel batteries or come up with procedures to connect an external battery trickle changer when the car is parked overnight. Great informative article. Just wondered if you or any of your readers have experienced or heard of problems with BMW automobile batteries? This is a well know and documented issue by many BMW owners and dealers? Due to the inordinate number of battery life failures BMW no longer honors their new car battery warranty. By downloading historical information from the automobile\‘s computer the dealer will look for any excuse for blaming the problem on the car owner, e.g., leaving the door open, leaving the key in the car, or not driving the car for several weeks. It seems to me that BMW has a problem with parasitic drain on their cars from about the time that the 2008 models came out. The car computer remains active when the engine is off, still controlling functions that I cannot explain. BMW has not compensated for this parasitic drain by installing a heaver duty (more Amp Hours) battery. I can\‘t believe their engineers are this ignorant. An easy saluting would be to parallel two batteries but this would increase the cost of the vehicle by several hundred dollars. That is probably why BMW has taken no action to correct the problem. It is possible that other automobile manufacturers have similar problems. My opinion is that if new batteries cannot be designed to compensate for the heavy parasitic drain then the manufactures need to install two parallel batteries or come up with procedures to connect an external battery trickle changer when the car is parked overnight.

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-209 James Ville Fri, 24 Feb 2012 07:49:37 -0800 That‘s a good suggestion. A Trickle Charger is the best step to take in extending the life of the battery. It‘s less expensive than a new battery, that‘s for sure. That‘s a good suggestion. A Trickle Charger is the best step to take in extending the life of the battery. It‘s less expensive than a new battery, that‘s for sure.

]]> By: Yancy http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-210 Yancy Fri, 24 Feb 2012 11:33:54 -0800 I‘m shopping for a couple of off-grid batteries , I‘m curious when purchasing a new battery, what is the typical warranty length, in case you bought a dud that was sitting in the heat in storage for 12 months. Thanks, great info BTW I‘m shopping for a couple of off-grid batteries , I‘m curious when purchasing a new battery, what is the typical warranty length, in case you bought a dud that was sitting in the heat in storage for 12 months. Thanks, great info BTW

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-211 James Ville Fri, 24 Feb 2012 11:56:48 -0800 All of our batteries have their warranties listed on the product pages. Typical warranties start at 1 year for most of our powersports batteries. Shorai and Odyssey high performance batteries have 2 year warranties. All of our batteries have their warranties listed on the product pages. Typical warranties start at 1 year for most of our powersports batteries. Shorai and Odyssey high performance batteries have 2 year warranties.

]]> By: Tom Z http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-212 Tom Z Wed, 29 Feb 2012 09:55:06 -0800 I have an interesting battery question for AGM battery charging. I recently purchased a 12 volt 7 amp battery for my roboduck, I used my older 1/2 amp charger adn about two hours later, I noticed the battery had a puddle of clear water around it‘s base. It was acid! How on earth could a glass matt battery generate that much fluid (about 1/4 cup). I did nto even think there was that much fluid in the battery! What is going on? I have an interesting battery question for AGM battery charging. I recently purchased a 12 volt 7 amp battery for my roboduck, I used my older 1/2 amp charger adn about two hours later, I noticed the battery had a puddle of clear water around it\‘s base. It was acid! How on earth could a glass matt battery generate that much fluid (about 1/4 cup). I did nto even think there was that much fluid in the battery! What is going on?

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-213 James Ville Wed, 29 Feb 2012 10:04:29 -0800 AGM batteries are sealed. If there is a large pool of electrolyte, there must be an opening in the case. If the liquid is not coming from the ventilation holes on the top, there must be physical damage elsewhere, possible near the base. The electrolyte in the battery is absorbed, but it can be forced out if there is enough pressure in the case or if it hasn‘t had time to fully absorb (for instance, it if was a freshly activated battery). AGM batteries are sealed. If there is a large pool of electrolyte, there must be an opening in the case. If the liquid is not coming from the ventilation holes on the top, there must be physical damage elsewhere, possible near the base.

The electrolyte in the battery is absorbed, but it can be forced out if there is enough pressure in the case or if it hasn‘t had time to fully absorb (for instance, it if was a freshly activated battery).

]]> By: john paciorek http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-215 john paciorek Fri, 02 Mar 2012 06:07:59 -0800 I have a Sportster scooter which is seven years old and has two 12V deep cell GEL type batteries. It has been used very little. These batteries won\\\‘t take a charge. When I disconnect them to read the voltage I get 11 volts on one and 13 volts on the other. Gel types (80AH) for this unit are super expensive. (1)Could I try to replace the 11 volt battery only, presuming its a dead cell? (2)Would you recommend that I replace these batteries with two AGM batteries with a comparable AH rating? Can I use the same charger on these batteries? (3) Any other way out of this dilemma, such as using a maintenance-free lead acid battery with a comparable AH? Thanks very much, John Thanks very much I have a Sportster scooter which is seven years old and has two 12V deep cell GEL type batteries. It has been used very little. These batteries won\\\\\\\‘t take a charge. When I disconnect them to read the voltage I get 11 volts on one and 13 volts on the other. Gel types (80AH) for this unit are super expensive.
(1)Could I try to replace the 11 volt battery only, presuming its a dead cell?
(2)Would you recommend that I replace these batteries with two AGM batteries with a comparable AH rating? Can I use the same charger on these batteries?
(3) Any other way out of this dilemma, such as using a maintenance-free lead acid battery with a comparable AH?

Thanks very much, John
Thanks very much

]]> By: Rick Echols http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-216 Rick Echols Fri, 02 Mar 2012 09:06:16 -0800 Hi, I have four 6 volt house batteries for my RV. We do some warm weather dry camping. How low should I let the voltage drop before recharging with the generator? Thanks, Rick Hi, I have four 6 volt house batteries for my RV. We do some warm weather dry camping. How low should I let the voltage drop before recharging with the generator? Thanks, Rick

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-217 James Ville Fri, 02 Mar 2012 09:11:57 -0800 Lead Acid Batteries, doesn‘t matter the voltage, should never be left to drop in voltage. That is only common practice with NiCD batteries. Discharging your batteries severely before recharging them will cause sulfation and early battery failure. The healthiest thing to do is keep them fully charged as often as possible. Lead Acid Batteries, doesn‘t matter the voltage, should never be left to drop in voltage. That is only common practice with NiCD batteries. Discharging your batteries severely before recharging them will cause sulfation and early battery failure. The healthiest thing to do is keep them fully charged as often as possible.

]]> By: Rick Echols http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-218 Rick Echols Fri, 02 Mar 2012 09:25:04 -0800 So how can I expect to be able to use my house batteries for dry camping without losing any voltage? I would think that I should be able to use my lights inside and radio without runnung my generator. I don‘t want to have to run my generator all the time. So how can I expect to be able to use my house batteries for dry camping without losing any voltage? I would think that I should be able to use my lights inside and radio without runnung my generator. I don‘t want to have to run my generator all the time.

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-219 James Ville Fri, 02 Mar 2012 09:29:46 -0800 1) If you‘re reading 11 volts, there is no short or dead cell. It‘s much less expensive purchasing a de-sulfator unit to restore the battery than to buy a new one. If the batteries are still holding a charge, they can be restored. 2) If you do decide to upgrade to AGM, your Gel charger will work. Commonly, AGM batteries charge best at a higher voltage, but those chargers would damage the Gel. 3) When creating a battery bank, it‘s recommended to use batteries of the same voltage, AH rating, and type. 80AH AGM batteries will work for your system just fine, but good battery maintenance is still recommended, regardless of the battery chemistry type. 1) If you‘re reading 11 volts, there is no short or dead cell. It‘s much less expensive purchasing a de-sulfator unit to restore the battery than to buy a new one. If the batteries are still holding a charge, they can be restored.
2) If you do decide to upgrade to AGM, your Gel charger will work. Commonly, AGM batteries charge best at a higher voltage, but those chargers would damage the Gel.
3) When creating a battery bank, it‘s recommended to use batteries of the same voltage, AH rating, and type. 80AH AGM batteries will work for your system just fine, but good battery maintenance is still recommended, regardless of the battery chemistry type.

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-220 James Ville Fri, 02 Mar 2012 09:35:43 -0800 Losing voltage is normal. Good battery maintenance is as follows: Re-charge battery at the soonest possible after using the battery. When drawing from the battery, avoid discharging below 50% capacity. This is the danger of having a battery sit in storage for months at a time. You will see early battery failure. Charging regularly or keeping a trickle charger is the best solution. Surely batteries are meant to be used. But the myth of “battery memory” does not apply to lead acid batteries. It is not healthy, and unnecessary, to discharge all the way and recharge again. Losing voltage is normal. Good battery maintenance is as follows: Re-charge battery at the soonest possible after using the battery. When drawing from the battery, avoid discharging below 50% capacity. This is the danger of having a battery sit in storage for months at a time. You will see early battery failure. Charging regularly or keeping a trickle charger is the best solution.

Surely batteries are meant to be used. But the myth of “battery memory” does not apply to lead acid batteries. It is not healthy, and unnecessary, to discharge all the way and recharge again.

]]> By: Eagleye http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-226 Eagleye Mon, 05 Mar 2012 17:33:07 -0800 Thank you James, for all the great information! Ive got an electric scooter (xtreme xb-600) and need to replace the 12v22ah SLA. Ive looked around and was told that the EVX12200 or EVH12240 Deep Cycle Battery would be the way to go. Your opinion would be muched valued and appreciated! Thank you James, for all the great information!

Ive got an electric scooter (xtreme xb-600) and need to replace the 12v22ah SLA. Ive looked around and was told that the EVX12200 or EVH12240 Deep Cycle Battery would be the way to go.

Your opinion would be muched valued and appreciated!

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-227 James Ville Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:46:13 -0800 Yes, those batteries will work as they are the same dimensions as any 12 volt 22 AH SLA Battery. The difference between the EVX12200 and the EVH12240 is AH rating. The higher the AH, the more runtime you‘ll have. Yes, those batteries will work as they are the same dimensions as any 12 volt 22 AH SLA Battery. The difference between the EVX12200 and the EVH12240 is AH rating. The higher the AH, the more runtime you‘ll have.

]]> By: eric roberts http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-229 eric roberts Wed, 07 Mar 2012 23:41:09 -0800 hi this is a common problem, many battery manufacturers make batteries that they claim are leisure batteries. the advice i will give is that you should buy a battery with the largest amps as possible that will fit in the space that you have, in my opinion you should buy an AGM battery as this will discharge and recover better after use, they are more expensive but should last much longer. thanks eric roberts www.batteriesontheweb.co.uk hi this is a common problem, many battery manufacturers make batteries that they claim are leisure batteries. the advice i will give is that you should buy a battery with the largest amps as possible that will fit in the space that you have, in my opinion you should buy an AGM battery as this will discharge and recover better after use, they are more expensive but should last much longer. thanks eric roberts www.batteriesontheweb.co.uk

]]> By: Greg White http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-230 Greg White Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:21:59 -0800 James, this is a great site! Maybe you can help me: I have 3 8D AGM marine batteries on my boat with a xantrex charging system. The boatyard said they would plug the boat in over the winter in the warehouse but did not. Nor did they shut the breakers off. So, the batteries were depleted to zero over the last 5 months. How can I tell what damage was done? How can I calculate the liability the boatyard has? James, this is a great site! Maybe you can help me: I have 3 8D AGM marine batteries on my boat with a xantrex charging system. The boatyard said they would plug the boat in over the winter in the warehouse but did not. Nor did they shut the breakers off. So, the batteries were depleted to zero over the last 5 months. How can I tell what damage was done? How can I calculate the liability the boatyard has?

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-231 James Ville Fri, 09 Mar 2012 09:30:23 -0800 While it‘s difficult to quantify the damage, I have some recommendations. First, you should take a voltage reading from the batteries. If indeed you‘re reading 0 volts (which is unlikely) then I would try to charge them with a low voltage start charger ASAP. Most automatic chargers have a cut-off voltage of 6.5 volts before they will start. This prevents you from bringing back severely discharged batteries. Interacter makes a charger that starts charging with a reading as low a 1-2 volts. Second, sulfation has most definitely occurred, so I would also advise putting a de-sulfator unit on the batteries as well, such as the OBD12V. If these do not bring the battery back to working condition, then I would suggest the batteries have passed the point of no return. While it‘s difficult to quantify the damage, I have some recommendations.

First, you should take a voltage reading from the batteries. If indeed you‘re reading 0 volts (which is unlikely) then I would try to charge them with a low voltage start charger ASAP. Most automatic chargers have a cut-off voltage of 6.5 volts before they will start. This prevents you from bringing back severely discharged batteries. Interacter makes a charger that starts charging with a reading as low a 1-2 volts.

Second, sulfation has most definitely occurred, so I would also advise putting a de-sulfator unit on the batteries as well, such as the OBD12V. If these do not bring the battery back to working condition, then I would suggest the batteries have passed the point of no return.

]]> By: Phyleus http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-235 Phyleus Mon, 12 Mar 2012 03:30:44 -0700 Wonderful article. Just had a question though. How does one test SMF batteries on-site for e.g. Server UPS batteries. ? The test-gig should be portable though. Wonderful article. Just had a question though.
How does one test SMF batteries on-site for e.g. Server UPS batteries. ? The test-gig should be portable though.

]]> By: Jummy http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-243 Jummy Tue, 13 Mar 2012 02:49:52 -0700 hello Jamie, I am currently working on a research about Solar- hybrid off-grid instalations, I have my battery amp hour for 20hrs discharge but i need the battery to store enuf cahrge for 3 days, so ut is trippled, do i still use the C20 rating or do i use the C72hrs rating for it? i am confused. and the needed Current is about 6000Amp-hour hello Jamie, I am currently working on a research about Solar- hybrid off-grid instalations,
I have my battery amp hour for 20hrs discharge but i need the battery to store enuf cahrge for 3 days, so ut is trippled, do i still use the C20 rating or do i use the C72hrs rating for it? i am confused. and the needed Current is about 6000Amp-hour

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-244 James Ville Tue, 13 Mar 2012 09:14:30 -0700 If you parallel your batteries, the capacity (AH) will increase. The rating will still be at 20 hrs, but the number will triple. If you have your batteries and draw amount, please use our battery calculators to help you figure out how long they will last, or if you need another battery based on your load. http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/tools/ [1] Links: ------ [1] http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/tools/ If you parallel your batteries, the capacity (AH) will increase. The rating will still be at 20 hrs, but the number will triple.

If you have your batteries and draw amount, please use our battery calculators to help you figure out how long they will last, or if you need another battery based on your load.

http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/tools/

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-245 James Ville Tue, 13 Mar 2012 11:56:38 -0700 Mobility Scooters use both AGM and Gel batteries. I cannot verify what you have. However, if you‘re unsure, I recommend using the Gel setting. This is a lower voltage that is safe for gel, but the AGM will accept it also. It‘s the other way around that is not recommended. Mobility Scooters use both AGM and Gel batteries. I cannot verify what you have. However, if you‘re unsure, I recommend using the Gel setting. This is a lower voltage that is safe for gel, but the AGM will accept it also. It‘s the other way around that is not recommended.

]]> By: Deron http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-238 Deron Mon, 12 Mar 2012 10:16:25 -0700 Next time simple is enough….. Next time simple is enough…..

]]> By: mel schallot http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-239 mel schallot Mon, 12 Mar 2012 10:46:00 -0700 Very good overview of lead-acid batteries. How do I submit a question? What type of sealed lead-acid battery would a handicap scooter likely have: AGM or Gel? I need to know in order to select the right charging mode for a Schauer automatic charger. Very good overview of lead-acid batteries. How do I submit a question? What type of sealed lead-acid battery would a handicap scooter likely have: AGM or Gel? I need to know in order to select the right charging mode for a Schauer automatic charger.

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-241 James Ville Mon, 12 Mar 2012 11:58:10 -0700 What do you need to test for? Voltage readings with a volt meter is always helpful. This gives you a good idea of the state of charge of the batteries. A Load tester is good for measuring CCA and durability under a load. Even our comprehensive digital battery conductance analyzer is portable. All of our testing units are located in the Battery Accessories category on our website. See for yourself. :) What do you need to test for? Voltage readings with a volt meter is always helpful. This gives you a good idea of the state of charge of the batteries. A Load tester is good for measuring CCA and durability under a load. Even our comprehensive digital battery conductance analyzer is portable. All of our testing units are located in the Battery Accessories category on our website. See for yourself. :)

]]> By: Sampson30CINDY http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-246 Sampson30CINDY Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:05:00 -0700 Make your life time more simple get the loans [1] and everything you want. Links: ------ [1] http://goodfinance-blog.com Make your life time more simple get the loans and everything you want.

]]> By: Toni Roddey http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-247 Toni Roddey Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:19:49 -0700 Fantastic information. Thanks so much for your service to those of us struggling to understand through all the hype. My question is for a marine application. I have a bank of 4 Trojan lead acid batteries for my house bank and another lead acid starter battery. My starter battery died and I‘d like to replace it with a maintanence-free option but have heard not to mix battery types. I‘m not ready to replace the Trojans, so should I just buy another lead-acid starter to tide me over until my Trojans die? Thanks for any suggestions you can give. Fantastic information. Thanks so much for your service to those of us struggling to understand through all the hype. My question is for a marine application. I have a bank of 4 Trojan lead acid batteries for my house bank and another lead acid starter battery. My starter battery died and I‘d like to replace it with a maintanence-free option but have heard not to mix battery types. I‘m not ready to replace the Trojans, so should I just buy another lead-acid starter to tide me over until my Trojans die? Thanks for any suggestions you can give.

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-248 James Ville Tue, 13 Mar 2012 15:28:12 -0700 If your starter battery is not connected to the house bank, then it‘s fine to upgrade it to a sealed type. You can even use the same charger if you go with an AGM. Within a battery bank it‘s recommended to use the same battery type. Because your boat draws from the house bank and the starting batteries separately, then you‘re okay. If your starter battery is not connected to the house bank, then it‘s fine to upgrade it to a sealed type. You can even use the same charger if you go with an AGM. Within a battery bank it‘s recommended to use the same battery type. Because your boat draws from the house bank and the starting batteries separately, then you‘re okay.

]]> By: gary http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-250 gary Sat, 17 Mar 2012 06:33:47 -0700 have a 6 volt dry cell batt. in a old bike. is there a way of protecting the batt. from being over charged? thank you for your time.. By: Bill Smith http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-254 Bill Smith Sun, 18 Mar 2012 00:40:07 -0700 Thank you for the excellent article and taking the time to answer everyone‘s questions. I want to install a dual battery system in a small car that has an 80 amp alternator. The 2nd battery will be dedicated to one appliance that has a low current draw. A small deep cycle AGM like those used in mobility scooters will do the trick (about 35 Ah). I don‘t want to upgrade the alternator but I also don‘t want to overly stress the one I‘ve got by having it regularly recharge a battery that is often going to be drained close to max (50 percent). Is there a way that I can limit the current to the second battery so that it charges at 10 to 15 amps? That would be equivalent to driving with lights on and so I know it would not have a big negative effect on the alternator as long as I am not using the lights. Thank you for the excellent article and taking the time to answer everyone\‘s questions. I want to install a dual battery system in a small car that has an 80 amp alternator. The 2nd battery will be dedicated to one appliance that has a low current draw. A small deep cycle AGM like those used in mobility scooters will do the trick (about 35 Ah). I don\‘t want to upgrade the alternator but I also don\‘t want to overly stress the one I\‘ve got by having it regularly recharge a battery that is often going to be drained close to max (50 percent). Is there a way that I can limit the current to the second battery so that it charges at 10 to 15 amps? That would be equivalent to driving with lights on and so I know it would not have a big negative effect on the alternator as long as I am not using the lights.

]]> By: Cain http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-255 Cain Sun, 18 Mar 2012 11:55:28 -0700 Hi, I only use my car on weekends. My question is: Can I use a Smart Charger whenever the car is stopped? This will not overcharge the battery? My car has an AGM battery. Thanks in advance for your help. Hi,
I only use my car on weekends. My question is: Can I use a Smart Charger whenever the car is stopped? This will not overcharge the battery?
My car has an AGM battery.
Thanks in advance for your help.

]]> By: Cain http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-256 Cain Sun, 18 Mar 2012 11:56:19 -0700 Hi, I only use my car on weekends. My question is: Can I use a Smart Charger whenever the car is stopped? This will not overcharge the battery? My car has an AGM battery. Thanks in advance for your help. Hi,
I only use my car on weekends. My question is: Can I use a Smart Charger whenever the car is stopped? This will not overcharge the battery?
My car has an AGM battery.
Thanks in advance for your help.

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-257 James Ville Mon, 19 Mar 2012 11:06:26 -0700 The best method to preventing battery from being overcharged is to use a micro-proccessor controlled “smart” automatic battery charger. If the bike itself is over-charging, then there is a problem with the bike‘s charging system, the stator. The best method to preventing battery from being overcharged is to use a micro-proccessor controlled “smart” automatic battery charger. If the bike itself is over-charging, then there is a problem with the bike‘s charging system, the stator.

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-261 James Ville Mon, 19 Mar 2012 11:30:02 -0700 If you use an AC charger, parking the car and turning off the engine is fine. If you are refereing to a solar charger, it‘s also designed to charge the battery, not only when the car is stopped, but the engine is off as well. Plugging a smart charger on the car during the weekdays is very healthy for the battery. No overcharging if you make sure the charger is fully automatic. Our chargers are. :) If you use an AC charger, parking the car and turning off the engine is fine. If you are refereing to a solar charger, it‘s also designed to charge the battery, not only when the car is stopped, but the engine is off as well. Plugging a smart charger on the car during the weekdays is very healthy for the battery. No overcharging if you make sure the charger is fully automatic. Our chargers are. :)

]]> By: Shawn http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-262 Shawn Mon, 19 Mar 2012 12:04:33 -0700 The article above suggests you know what you‘re talking about. I don‘t know jack, but have read a little online and am trying to use a deep-cycle battery to power a projector for a public art project. Any chance you‘re available to help me trouble-shoot? I borrowed a neighbor‘s charger and charged a brand new battery up for about 15 hours. I then hooked up a 1000watt inverter and plugged the projector in. It worked great, for about 25 minutes, but then just died with a Low Voltage error message. Does this mean the battery wasn‘t charged all the way or am I doing something else wrong? According to the projector specs, the max wattage it uses is 288. Would really appreciate any input you‘ve got. I‘m out of my league here. The article above suggests you know what you‘re talking about. I don‘t know jack, but have read a little online and am trying to use a deep-cycle battery to power a projector for a public art project. Any chance you‘re available to help me trouble-shoot? I borrowed a neighbor‘s charger and charged a brand new battery up for about 15 hours. I then hooked up a 1000watt inverter and plugged the projector in. It worked great, for about 25 minutes, but then just died with a Low Voltage error message. Does this mean the battery wasn‘t charged all the way or am I doing something else wrong? According to the projector specs, the max wattage it uses is 288. Would really appreciate any input you‘ve got. I‘m out of my league here.

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-263 James Ville Mon, 19 Mar 2012 12:58:27 -0700 Based on the information you provided, you‘re drawing around 23 amps from a 12 volt battery. That‘s a lot of juice since it‘s a constant draw, not a quick burst. Without any information about the battey itself, or the charger, I cannot determine what the problem was. If the battery did not have the capacity to handle the load, you may need something with more AH (Amp Hours). It might be helpful if you run your numbers through our calculators. http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/tools [1] Or give our tech guys a call at 541-474-4421 Links: ------ [1] http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/tools Based on the information you provided, you‘re drawing around 23 amps from a 12 volt battery. That‘s a lot of juice since it‘s a constant draw, not a quick burst. Without any information about the battey itself, or the charger, I cannot determine what the problem was.

If the battery did not have the capacity to handle the load, you may need something with more AH (Amp Hours). It might be helpful if you run your numbers through our calculators.

http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/tools

Or give our tech guys a call at 541-474-4421

]]> By: Andrew D-H http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-264 Andrew D-H Tue, 20 Mar 2012 05:22:55 -0700 Awesome article – thanks. I have a question. I have a YP17-12 (12V17AH) Maintenance Free Lead Acid battery in my Bushranger Power Tank (for jump starting). It‘s was showing over 12 volts after about 10 hours at 1 amp. I tried to load test (it failed) and it‘s now just under 12 volts. It has a plastic strip which when I popped it off with a screwdriver there were little caps on each filling hole. Can I add distilled water to it even if it had gel. I up-ended it with caps off over a container and not a single drop of liquid came out making me think it is not a wet acid type. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Awesome article – thanks. I have a question.
I have a YP17-12 (12V17AH) Maintenance Free Lead Acid battery in my Bushranger Power Tank (for jump starting). It‘s was showing over 12 volts after about 10 hours at 1 amp. I tried to load test (it failed) and it‘s now just under 12 volts. It has a plastic strip which when I popped it off with a screwdriver there were little caps on each filling hole. Can I add distilled water to it even if it had gel. I up-ended it with caps off over a container and not a single drop of liquid came out making me think it is not a wet acid type. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-265 James Ville Tue, 20 Mar 2012 10:54:06 -0700 If the battery is indeed maintenance free, it is not designed to be opened and water added. Low voltage is not a result of low fluid levels, in this case. A fully charged battery should read 13.2-12.8 volts. If you read 12.0 or 12.2 volts, that‘s severely discharged. If you load test at this poin, you‘ll only further discharge the battery. I recommend putting the battery on a charger immediately and load testing once it‘s fully charged. If the battery is draining rapidly in 10 hours at 1 amp, I recommend you use our online tools to calculate if that‘s a good size battery for that amount of draw, or if the draw time should be shortened for the sake of the battery. http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/tools [1] Links: ------ [1] http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/tools If the battery is indeed maintenance free, it is not designed to be opened and water added. Low voltage is not a result of low fluid levels, in this case. A fully charged battery should read 13.2-12.8 volts. If you read 12.0 or 12.2 volts, that‘s severely discharged. If you load test at this poin, you‘ll only further discharge the battery. I recommend putting the battery on a charger immediately and load testing once it‘s fully charged.

If the battery is draining rapidly in 10 hours at 1 amp, I recommend you use our online tools to calculate if that‘s a good size battery for that amount of draw, or if the draw time should be shortened for the sake of the battery.

http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/tools

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-266 James Ville Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:46:32 -0700 If you want to charge your vehicle‘s starting battery as well as a separate auxiliary battery, I recommend using the Battery Isolator Switch (Bi303303 [1]). Having a 35 AH spare battery should not be too much for your 80 amp alternator. It‘s an automatic device, there is no “preset” amperage setting. The charge allocated to the batteries really depends on the status of each one. With the rise in resistance in one battery, charge will be directed to the other until they are both stable and full. Links: ------ [1] http://www.batterystuff.com/battery-products/Bi303303.html If you want to charge your vehicle‘s starting battery as well as a separate auxiliary battery, I recommend using the Battery Isolator Switch (Bi303303). Having a 35 AH spare battery should not be too much for your 80 amp alternator. It‘s an automatic device, there is no “preset” amperage setting. The charge allocated to the batteries really depends on the status of each one. With the rise in resistance in one battery, charge will be directed to the other until they are both stable and full.

]]> By: CharlesCLAIRE29 http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-268 CharlesCLAIRE29 Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:15:00 -0700 If you want to buy a house, you will have to get the home loans [1]. Furthermore, my mother always utilizes a college loan, which seems to be the most reliable. Links: ------ [1] http://goodfinance-blog.com/topics/home-loans If you want to buy a house, you will have to get the home loans. Furthermore, my mother always utilizes a college loan, which seems to be the most reliable.

]]> By: Bill Smith http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-271 Bill Smith Fri, 23 Mar 2012 11:27:55 -0700 Thank you for that info. Well meaning folks online were driving me nuts telling me that a deep cycle battery that is often discharged to 50 percent will greatly shorten the life of a small alternator. But I couldn‘t find any info like that at a reputable web site and I‘m glad to hear it isn‘t really true. I had been looking at a VSR (voltage sensitive relay) for the part of the wiring you mentioned. These (I guess they are all the same) charge the starting battery first and then switch the charging current to the auxiliary battery. Does the isolator you mentioned work that way? If not, which method do you think is best. I know the companies that make the VSR devices are always touting the fact that there is no voltage drop with their devices which I gather there is with a device that uses a solenoid. Thank you for that info. Well meaning folks online were driving me nuts telling me that a deep cycle battery that is often discharged to 50 percent will greatly shorten the life of a small alternator. But I couldn‘t find any info like that at a reputable web site and I‘m glad to hear it isn‘t really true. I had been looking at a VSR (voltage sensitive relay) for the part of the wiring you mentioned. These (I guess they are all the same) charge the starting battery first and then switch the charging current to the auxiliary battery. Does the isolator you mentioned work that way? If not, which method do you think is best. I know the companies that make the VSR devices are always touting the fact that there is no voltage drop with their devices which I gather there is with a device that uses a solenoid.

]]> By: Rich http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-276 Rich Wed, 28 Mar 2012 07:23:36 -0700 James, I have a boat with 2 cyl diesel engine and currently 2 series 27 wet batteries set as two banks. I would like to add another 2 batteries because the engine does not start easily when cold. The question is whether it is advisable to mix AGM‘s as one bank with wet cells as the other. I would like to change to AGM‘s, but hate to lose the investment already made in the two wet batteries. For starting, I do have a standard A/B or BOTH as a switching option for the banks. James,

I have a boat with 2 cyl diesel engine and currently 2 series 27 wet batteries set as two banks. I would like to add another 2 batteries because the engine does not start easily when cold. The question is whether it is advisable to mix AGM\‘s as one bank with wet cells as the other. I would like to change to AGM\‘s, but hate to lose the investment already made in the two wet batteries. For starting, I do have a standard A/B or BOTH as a switching option for the banks.

]]> By: James Ville http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-277 James Ville Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:01:12 -0700 When constructing battery banks, it‘s highly recommened to use batteries of the same type (Flooded, AGM, Gel), voltage, AH rating, and even age. Although you can technically build your banks by adding AGM batteries, having these differences will cause an inbalance of discharge and recharging. When constructing battery banks, it‘s highly recommened to use batteries of the same type (Flooded, AGM, Gel), voltage, AH rating, and even age. Although you can technically build your banks by adding AGM batteries, having these differences will cause an inbalance of discharge and recharging.

]]> By: bobby http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-280 bobby Sat, 31 Mar 2012 06:46:45 -0700 A very useful site, and highly informative – well done! I have two flooded lead acid for my domestic bank, and have added a small AGM for the engine start. The mains charger can be configured for one type or the other – in my situation would it be better to set the charger to AGM type? bob A very useful site, and highly informative – well done!

I have two flooded lead acid for my domestic bank, and have added a small AGM for the engine start. The mains charger can be configured for one type or the other – in my situation would it be better to set the charger to AGM type?

bob

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-282 Tech Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:16:09 -0700 From our experience, Flooded and AGM batteries can be charged at the same charge voltages. It should be safe either way. From our experience, Flooded and AGM batteries can be charged at the same charge voltages. It should be safe either way.

]]> By: iron http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-283 iron Mon, 02 Apr 2012 23:45:18 -0700 I got a Air Breeze 200 Watt wind generator and 2 – US BATTERY 6V 420ah L16HC-XC in series for 12v for emergency backup power i bought the batteries last year in nov. and was wanting to add 6 more this year in a couple months should i put the new with the older and whats my loss.also was planning on banking paralleled 4 sets of the 6v series-ed to 12v heavy and seen recommendations of only group up to 3 strings. whats the problem with adding over 3. also.. wind gen will get up to 15.2v equalizing burst every 5 min. at windy times. and i only use light loads making sure batterys never drop below 12.4ish if no wind i use a maintainer that maintains at around 14.1~3 question is When should i equalize and how long oh and the temp is constant 58 degrees in the basement good or bad. alot to post thank you much. I got a Air Breeze 200 Watt wind generator and 2 – US BATTERY 6V 420ah L16HC-XC in series for 12v for emergency backup power i bought the batteries last year in nov. and was wanting to add 6 more this year in a couple months should i put the new with the older and whats my loss.also was planning on banking paralleled 4 sets of the 6v series-ed to 12v heavy and seen recommendations of only group up to 3 strings. whats the problem with adding over 3. also.. wind gen will get up to 15.2v equalizing burst every 5 min. at windy times. and i only use light loads making sure batterys never drop below 12.4ish if no wind i use a maintainer that maintains at around 14.1~3 question is When should i equalize and how long oh and the temp is constant 58 degrees in the basement good or bad. alot to post thank you much.

]]> By: chad http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-284 chad Sat, 07 Apr 2012 13:16:15 -0700 Excellent information. Thanks. Just bought a DieHard Platinum Marine Group 31 for my boat. The reviews on this battery are excellent and I plan to use it for both starting the boat and running the trolling motor. You mentioned needing a special charger for AGM batteries. I have a Stanley BC4009 40 amp 3 stage charger. Is this charger OK to use with the AGM battery? Do I have to disconnect the battery from the power cables to charge it? Thanks for your help! Excellent information. Thanks.

Just bought a DieHard Platinum Marine Group 31 for my boat. The reviews on this battery are excellent and I plan to use it for both starting the boat and running the trolling motor. You mentioned needing a special charger for AGM batteries. I have a Stanley BC4009 40 amp 3 stage charger. Is this charger OK to use with the AGM battery? Do I have to disconnect the battery from the power cables to charge it? Thanks for your help!

]]> By: DeanaBlankenship http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-285 DeanaBlankenship Sun, 08 Apr 2012 01:32:10 -0700 Following my analysis, billions of persons on our planet get the loan [1] from different creditors. Therefore, there is a good possibility to get a collateral loan in all countries. Links: ------ [1] http://goodfinance-blog.com Following my analysis, billions of persons on our planet get the loan from different creditors. Therefore, there is a good possibility to get a collateral loan in all countries.

]]> By: Tom http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-288 Tom Mon, 09 Apr 2012 04:38:26 -0700 Lots of good stuff here—-and well written so that weekend mechanics like me can understand it. I have a 36v Western Golf Car with 2 year old batteries. The charger came with the car and I recharge after every use. None-the-less, two cells have failed on each of two of the batteries. Your article recommended that I should not ‘mix and match’ batteries, but I would like to replace the two failing batteries with new ones to get another year or so out of the remaining 4 old batteries. They cost about $125 each so my fix would invest $250 now to stave off a $750 pay out for another year. Bottom line: If I follow your advice, I replace all batteries at the same time and chuck 4 fairly good batteries (with no resale value). Is there a middle ground—-such as using some of your products to bring the two batteries back to service?? Lots of good stuff here—-and well written so that weekend mechanics like me can understand it. I have a 36v Western Golf Car with 2 year old batteries. The charger came with the car and I recharge after every use. None-the-less, two cells have failed on each of two of the batteries. Your article recommended that I should not \‘mix and match\’ batteries, but I would like to replace the two failing batteries with new ones to get another year or so out of the remaining 4 old batteries. They cost about $125 each so my fix would invest $250 now to stave off a $750 pay out for another year. Bottom line: If I follow your advice, I replace all batteries at the same time and chuck 4 fairly good batteries (with no resale value). Is there a middle ground—-such as using some of your products to bring the two batteries back to service??

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-289 Tech Mon, 09 Apr 2012 09:23:59 -0700 AGM Batteries can be charged with most standard chargers. It‘s the Gel batteries that require a special charge profile. If you charge your battery, you don‘t have to disconnect the power cables as long as the battery isn‘t being used while you charge it, unless your charger is also a power supply. If you draw on the battery while the charger is turned on, the charger will attempt to supply the demand. AGM Batteries can be charged with most standard chargers. It‘s the Gel batteries that require a special charge profile. If you charge your battery, you don‘t have to disconnect the power cables as long as the battery isn‘t being used while you charge it, unless your charger is also a power supply. If you draw on the battery while the charger is turned on, the charger will attempt to supply the demand.

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-291 Tech Mon, 09 Apr 2012 09:35:16 -0700 The choice is yours. The reason we recommend using batteries of the same age is because you will see overall better performance and lifespan of the whole bank if you do this. But if you feel it‘s not practical, you buying 2 new batteries will make your bank work and it might be just fine for you. It‘s not optimal, but it makes more sense. If your old batteries have shot cells, there is no product that can reverse that. The choice is yours. The reason we recommend using batteries of the same age is because you will see overall better performance and lifespan of the whole bank if you do this. But if you feel it‘s not practical, you buying 2 new batteries will make your bank work and it might be just fine for you. It‘s not optimal, but it makes more sense. If your old batteries have shot cells, there is no product that can reverse that.

]]> By: Budge http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-295 Budge Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:27:46 -0700 I have a 12 volt portable battery (Sears Diehard Portable Power 1150) that I use for car camping trips and the occasional jumpstart. I wasn‘t keeping it charged all the time and the battery finally wouldn‘t take a charge anymore. So I was convinced to replaced it with a deep cycle agm battery. After reading your article, it seems apparent that I should not have used a deep cycle because it‘s not appropriate for jumpstarts. However, I have also found that after the first time I used the battery for a weekend of camping, I had drained it down to 10% and now it will not charge. Is it possible that the unit is not compatible with deep cycle batteries, or is it more likely that I overdrained it and the unit isn‘t registering a battery to charge? I was told that I can connect this unit to my car battery (or any other charged 12 volt battery) and that should trick the unit into charging the battery. What do you think? I have a 12 volt portable battery (Sears Diehard Portable Power 1150) that I use for car camping trips and the occasional jumpstart. I wasn‘t keeping it charged all the time and the battery finally wouldn‘t take a charge anymore. So I was convinced to replaced it with a deep cycle agm battery. After reading your article, it seems apparent that I should not have used a deep cycle because it‘s not appropriate for jumpstarts. However, I have also found that after the first time I used the battery for a weekend of camping, I had drained it down to 10% and now it will not charge. Is it possible that the unit is not compatible with deep cycle batteries, or is it more likely that I overdrained it and the unit isn‘t registering a battery to charge? I was told that I can connect this unit to my car battery (or any other charged 12 volt battery) and that should trick the unit into charging the battery. What do you think?

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-296 Tech Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:06:10 -0700 Deep Cycle batteries have CCA ratings as well. However, for the same physical size battery, if you compare it to a starting battery, the CCA will be much less. But a deep cycle battery is fairly common in jumpstarts because they are also used as 12 volt power sources and some even have built in inverters for AC power. The batteries in the units are large enough where the CCA can jump start a car. In doing so, 25% of the battery‘s capacity can be drained just like that. If batteries read severely low voltage, most automatic chargers have trouble charging. Connecting another battery in parallel with the drained battery is a good method of bypassing the “low voltage disconnect” filter of the charger. Deep Cycle batteries have CCA ratings as well. However, for the same physical size battery, if you compare it to a starting battery, the CCA will be much less. But a deep cycle battery is fairly common in jumpstarts because they are also used as 12 volt power sources and some even have built in inverters for AC power. The batteries in the units are large enough where the CCA can jump start a car. In doing so, 25% of the battery‘s capacity can be drained just like that. If batteries read severely low voltage, most automatic chargers have trouble charging. Connecting another battery in parallel with the drained battery is a good method of bypassing the “low voltage disconnect” filter of the charger.

]]> By: BurnsYesenia27 http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-305 BurnsYesenia27 Thu, 12 Apr 2012 19:07:13 -0700 It is good that people are able to receive the business loans [1] and this opens up completely new possibilities. Links: ------ [1] http://goodfinance-blog.com/topics/business-loans It is good that people are able to receive the business loans and this opens up completely new possibilities.

]]> By: Paul http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-313 Paul Sun, 15 Apr 2012 08:49:23 -0700 “The resistance has increased with the increase in capacity,” Not so, resistances in parallel decrease. It takes longer to charge because you are charging two batteries at the same time instead of one. “The resistance has increased with the increase in capacity,” Not so, resistances in parallel decrease. It takes longer to charge because you are charging two batteries at the same time instead of one.

]]> By: Frank http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-314 Frank Mon, 16 Apr 2012 09:30:11 -0700 Virgin lead vs. recycled lead? Is there a life span difference between batteries constructed with virgin lead compared to one made with recycled batteries, assuming that all other conditions are equal? If there is a difference, is it a noticeable one? Virgin lead vs. recycled lead?

Is there a life span difference between batteries constructed with virgin lead compared to one made with recycled batteries, assuming that all other conditions are equal? If there is a difference, is it a noticeable one?

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-316 Tech Mon, 16 Apr 2012 11:03:09 -0700 Resistance is based on the internal battery chemistry. It‘s not constant, but it relates to the strength of the charge rate versus the state of charge in the batteries. Two batteries in parallel will indeed lower the resistance. The charge time may not be quicker, but it will be more efficient. Resistance is based on the internal battery chemistry. It‘s not constant, but it relates to the strength of the charge rate versus the state of charge in the batteries. Two batteries in parallel will indeed lower the resistance. The charge time may not be quicker, but it will be more efficient.

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-317 Tech Mon, 16 Apr 2012 11:19:01 -0700 Yes. Batteries made from virgin-lead perform better and will last longer. High performance batteries, such as Odyssey, also have 2 year warranties. Yes. Batteries made from virgin-lead perform better and will last longer. High performance batteries, such as Odyssey, also have 2 year warranties.

]]> By: Bill http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-318 Bill Mon, 16 Apr 2012 13:15:56 -0700 Hello, I asked a question a few weeks ago and have been looking for a reply. My question is about running LED lights on a 12v vs a 24 volt system. I have 17 lights that are 27 watts each and want to get the maximum runtime. I have seen your calculators but do not have all the imput parameters. The batteries I am thinking about are deep cycle with 210 reserve capacity. Thanks. Hello,
I asked a question a few weeks ago and have been looking for a reply. My question is about running LED lights on a 12v vs a 24 volt system. I have 17 lights that are 27 watts each and want to get the maximum runtime. I have seen your calculators but do not have all the imput parameters. The batteries I am thinking about are deep cycle with 210 reserve capacity. Thanks.

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-319 Tech Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:34:47 -0700 My question is this: what voltage are those lights rated for? If it doesn‘t say on the lights, you should find out by calling the maker. It‘s important to keep the voltage the same. Running a 12 volt rated LED light bulb will blow up if you use 24 volts (2 batteries in series). Maximum runtime is ensured not my increasing the volatge amount, but the capacity (Amp Hours). My question is this: what voltage are those lights rated for? If it doesn‘t say on the lights, you should find out by calling the maker. It‘s important to keep the voltage the same. Running a 12 volt rated LED light bulb will blow up if you use 24 volts (2 batteries in series). Maximum runtime is ensured not my increasing the volatge amount, but the capacity (Amp Hours).

]]> By: Dave http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-323 Dave Fri, 20 Apr 2012 15:29:36 -0700 I have a question. I purchased a Minn Kota Endura 50 trolling motor 2nd hand. It‘s for an aluminum fishing boat I have access to once a year for a week. I‘m a casual fisherman who takes the boat out maybe for an hour a day. I bought a deep cycle AGM 12 Volt 12 amp hour with a charger for agm and gel batteries. I had trouble finding what kind of draw the trolling motor places on the battery at the Minn Kota site. Did I buy an undersized battery for my causal usage? I have a question. I purchased a Minn Kota Endura 50 trolling motor 2nd hand. It‘s for an aluminum fishing boat I have access to once a year for a week. I‘m a casual fisherman who takes the boat out maybe for an hour a day. I bought a deep cycle AGM 12 Volt 12 amp hour with a charger for agm and gel batteries. I had trouble finding what kind of draw the trolling motor places on the battery at the Minn Kota site. Did I buy an undersized battery for my causal usage?

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-324 Tech Fri, 20 Apr 2012 16:10:45 -0700 Speaking from experience with other customers with trolling motors, I can‘t imagine the motor pulling anything less than 15 amps/hour from the battery. A 12 AH battery would not be able to supply more than 1/2 hour of power to the motor, if even that much. A larger capacity deep cycle battery would be highly recommened. Speaking from experience with other customers with trolling motors, I can‘t imagine the motor pulling anything less than 15 amps/hour from the battery. A 12 AH battery would not be able to supply more than 1/2 hour of power to the motor, if even that much. A larger capacity deep cycle battery would be highly recommened.

]]> By: Dave http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-325 Dave Sat, 21 Apr 2012 04:42:04 -0700 I was afraid of that. Any suggestions as to what would fill my needs but would not be overbuying for what I do? I see some of the deep cycles run $400 or more. I don\‘t think I need that much power. Thanks for your reply. Obviously I\‘m new to making these calculations and a little leery of just walking into a store and having them sell me something. I was afraid of that. Any suggestions as to what would fill my needs but would not be overbuying for what I do? I see some of the deep cycles run $400 or more. I don\\\‘t think I need that much power. Thanks for your reply. Obviously I\\\‘m new to making these calculations and a little leery of just walking into a store and having them sell me something.

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-328 Tech Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:46:00 -0700 If the motor drew at a rate of 15 amps an hour, I recommend using a group size 24 marine battery. This 12 volt, ~75 Amp Hour battery should give you 2 hours of uninterrupted runtime, and only discharge the battery to the safe 50% capacity remaining. We sell these batteries for $200-250. If the motor drew at a rate of 15 amps an hour, I recommend using a group size 24 marine battery. This 12 volt, ~75 Amp Hour battery should give you 2 hours of uninterrupted runtime, and only discharge the battery to the safe 50% capacity remaining. We sell these batteries for $200-250.

]]> By: trev http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-332 trev Mon, 23 Apr 2012 21:51:33 -0700 i might have missed this in the article but, why is it not recommended to mix battery sizes, and not to mix battery types? cheers i might have missed this in the article but, why is it not recommended to mix battery sizes, and not to mix battery types?
cheers

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-333 Tech Tue, 24 Apr 2012 11:49:21 -0700 Batteries of different types and sizes will charge and discharge unevenly. When batteries are configured in parallel or series (or both) they behave as a single unit. If there is an imbalance it could mean a shortening of overall battery life, as well as potential harm in recharging. Batteries of different types and sizes will charge and discharge unevenly. When batteries are configured in parallel or series (or both) they behave as a single unit. If there is an imbalance it could mean a shortening of overall battery life, as well as potential harm in recharging.

]]> By: Jack gilbert http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-348 Jack gilbert Sat, 05 May 2012 20:09:46 -0700 Great info, my battery died today, so, the AAA guy said that my old battery was below 12.5 volts and that it wouldn‘t have or hold the amps?? what does this mean Great info, my battery died today, so, the AAA guy said that my old battery was below 12.5 volts and that it wouldn‘t have or hold the amps?? what does this mean

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-350 Tech Mon, 07 May 2012 12:36:47 -0700 12.5 volts is partially discharged, 70% capacity remaining. When a battery is put under a load and there are no “amps” going through, it‘s usually a result of an open cell. The intense heat of a load can cause a separation in a cell connector, and this will cause current to decline or cease entirely. But when the load if taken off, the metal cools enough to touch and give a false voltage reading. It‘s very misleading and a result of poor construction at the factory level. 12.5 volts is partially discharged, 70% capacity remaining. When a battery is put under a load and there are no “amps” going through, it‘s usually a result of an open cell. The intense heat of a load can cause a separation in a cell connector, and this will cause current to decline or cease entirely. But when the load if taken off, the metal cools enough to touch and give a false voltage reading. It‘s very misleading and a result of poor construction at the factory level.

]]> By: knobby ions http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-351 knobby ions Tue, 08 May 2012 08:53:56 -0700 hi all i bought a AGM battery for my kawasaki vn 1500, great more ca,s no probs with it until i went overseas to work and made the mistake of leaving the ignition switch turned to park!, THIS in turn left the rear lamp illuminated, returned back home 6 weeks later ZILCH,visited my local bike guru in redcar he put slow charges, then fast charges into it over a period of two days, its gone from an initial reading of 0.3 v to a steady 12.9, hope this helps the guy with the boat. hi all i bought a AGM battery for my kawasaki vn 1500, great more ca,s no probs with it until i went overseas to work and made the mistake of leaving the ignition switch turned to park!, THIS in turn left the rear lamp illuminated, returned back home 6 weeks later ZILCH,visited my local bike guru in redcar he put slow charges, then fast charges into it over a period of two days, its gone from an initial reading of 0.3 v to a steady 12.9, hope this helps the guy with the boat.

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-352 Tech Tue, 08 May 2012 09:59:21 -0700 Hey, that‘s great that your batteries came back! 12.9 is very good voltage. Thanks for sharing! Hey, that‘s great that your batteries came back! 12.9 is very good voltage. Thanks for sharing!

]]> By: jim http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-353 jim Tue, 08 May 2012 11:48:10 -0700 Off the beaten track but several years ago my Dad bought me a 16V Craftsman drill. I used it a couple times and put it in the garage. Recently I was cleaning up and found that drill but the battery was dead and refused to take a charge no matter what. A new battery (when they can be found) is $55 plus. Do you know of any way to get this battery working again? Thanks. Off the beaten track but several years ago my Dad bought me a 16V Craftsman drill. I used it a couple times and put it in the garage. Recently I was cleaning up and found that drill but the battery was dead and refused to take a charge no matter what. A new battery (when they can be found) is $55 plus. Do you know of any way to get this battery working again? Thanks.

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-354 Tech Tue, 08 May 2012 12:02:21 -0700 We sell a variety of power tool replacement batteries. You can view our selection at http://www.batterystuff.com/batteries/power-tool-batteries/ [1] Rebuilding a power tool battery pack will run around $30-35 and up. We will be offering battery rebuilding in the near future. Links: ------ [1] http://www.batterystuff.com/batteries/power-tool-batteries/ We sell a variety of power tool replacement batteries. You can view our selection at http://www.batterystuff.com/batteries/power-tool-batteries/

Rebuilding a power tool battery pack will run around $30-35 and up. We will be offering battery rebuilding in the near future.

]]> By: S. http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-359 S. Wed, 09 May 2012 16:09:09 -0700 My husband just added acid instead of distilled water to my motorcycle battery after it had been sitting all winter. Is it ruined? My husband just added acid instead of distilled water to my motorcycle battery after it had been sitting all winter. Is it ruined?

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-360 Tech Wed, 09 May 2012 16:17:02 -0700 Possibly. The sulfuric acid never leaves the battery, it‘s only the water that evaporates and needs replenishment. If more acid was put in, the pH levels are probably out of balance. The battery may still work, you should test it before going on the road with it. Possibly. The sulfuric acid never leaves the battery, it‘s only the water that evaporates and needs replenishment. If more acid was put in, the pH levels are probably out of balance. The battery may still work, you should test it before going on the road with it.

]]> By: yloon http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-366 yloon Mon, 14 May 2012 22:35:04 -0700 I have been charging my dead battery for 4 months using pulsetech smart charger. This dead battery has been leaving there for 1 year. I got back my voltage of 13.7v and the smart charger is pulsing without mass charging for 1 week. However the battery still unable to start my car. The battery can supply headlight, horn and etc. Should i give up this battery or any other way to try it out? I notice 1 of the electrolyte\‘s in a cell is not drying up even after a long charge. the other cells always keep drying up and require to top up with battery water. Is the cell dead and cannot be revive anymore? thanks. I have been charging my dead battery for 4 months using pulsetech smart charger. This dead battery has been leaving there for 1 year.
I got back my voltage of 13.7v and the smart charger is pulsing without mass charging for 1 week.
However the battery still unable to start my car. The battery can supply headlight, horn and etc.

Should i give up this battery or any other way to try it out?

I notice 1 of the electrolyte\\\‘s in a cell is not drying up even after a long charge. the other cells always keep drying up and require to top up with battery water. Is the cell dead and cannot be revive anymore?

thanks.

]]> By: Kamran Jabbar http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-369 Kamran Jabbar Wed, 16 May 2012 04:23:09 -0700 When we use two batteries 12V each in a 24V system connected in parallel. There will be a possibility of unbalancing if both the batteries have different manufacturing date or batch. The charger only knows to charge 24V even if one battery is at 14 and other one is at 10. So it is thumb rule always connect same batch batteries in series and never replace one battery in a series. Replace the whole bank to avoid unbalancing. Unbalancing can damage one battery earlier than expected life. When we use two batteries 12V each in a 24V system connected in parallel. There will be a possibility of unbalancing if both the batteries have different manufacturing date or batch. The charger only knows to charge 24V even if one battery is at 14 and other one is at 10. So it is thumb rule always connect same batch batteries in series and never replace one battery in a series. Replace the whole bank to avoid unbalancing. Unbalancing can damage one battery earlier than expected life.

]]> By: Kamran Jabbar http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-370 Kamran Jabbar Wed, 16 May 2012 04:29:36 -0700 urgentcareers@gmail.com By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-371 Tech Wed, 16 May 2012 10:53:46 -0700 Please refer to our article about Battery Troubleshooting [1]. As far as battery water goes, as long as it‘s distilled water, that‘s fine. Links: ------ [1] http://www.batterystuff.com/kb/articles/battery-articles/troubleshooting-a-battery.html Please refer to our article about Battery Troubleshooting. As far as battery water goes, as long as it‘s distilled water, that‘s fine.

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-373 Tech Wed, 16 May 2012 14:44:49 -0700 Well said. Thank you for contributing. Well said. Thank you for contributing.

]]> By: bob http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-375 bob Thu, 17 May 2012 18:46:06 -0700 The best ever. Your tutorials were written for dummies like myself. The best ever. Your tutorials were written for dummies like myself.

]]> By: Tech http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-376 Tech Fri, 18 May 2012 09:22:59 -0700 Thank you for the feedback. :) Thank you for the feedback. :)

]]> By: Justin http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-378 Justin Sun, 20 May 2012 15:37:46 -0700 i have a 12 volt trolling motor and i just purchased an optima bluetop battery. These batteries are marketed as being dual purpose (deep cycle and cranking). is it possible to connect two 12 volt batteries to power my trolling motor (i want to be on the water as long as possible) and if so could i than use one of those 12 volt optima blue top dual purpose batteries as my cranking battery for my engine? if any of this sounds dumb im sorry im very new to boating and im trying to figure all this out . i have a 12 volt trolling motor and i just purchased an optima bluetop battery. These batteries are marketed as being dual purpose (deep cycle and cranking). is it possible to connect two 12 volt batteries to power my trolling motor (i want to be on the water as long as possible) and if so could i than use one of those 12 volt optima blue top dual purpose batteries as my cranking battery for my engine? if any of this sounds dumb im sorry im very new to boating and im trying to figure all this out .

]]> By: vince http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-379 vince Mon, 21 May 2012 11:20:05 -0700 I have a cpep that uses 2.2 amp I need to run it of a deep cell and a inverter for 8 hour for camping what what size inverter and deep cell battery would I need? I have a cpep that uses 2.2 amp I need to run it of a deep cell and a inverter for 8 hour for camping what what size inverter and deep cell battery would I need?

]]> By: vince http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-380 vince Mon, 21 May 2012 11:34:59 -0700 What type of deep cell battery and size inverter do I need to run 2.2 amp for 8 hour? What type of deep cell battery and size inverter do I need to run 2.2 amp for 8 hour?

]]> By: mat http://www.site.com/articles//kb/battery-basics.html#comment-382 mat Mon, 21 May 2012 13:00:12 -0700 is it possible to charge a 12 V battery with less than 12v? is it possible to charge a 12 V battery with less than 12v?

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