Batteries

 

---

Deep cycle batteries complement your solar panel system by storing any leftover energy, and EarthWave Living carries many of these. Deep cycle batteries, however, aren’t exclusive to solar power systems and many other applications require or are benefitted by them. As a lead acid battery, they are designed to be discharged regularly to almost full capacity. Any full deep cycle batteries should be able to discharge regularly to 80 percent of their full capacity. Hybrid batteries – a combination of deep cycle and starting models – should only discharge to 50 percent.

Deep cycle batteries are limited by the amount of electrolyte inside, but this is designed to protect the plates, which are thicker than those for a typical starting battery. In fact, they are made from more antimony in the alloy than most battery plates.

While deep cycle batteries are beneficial for wind and solar panel systems, they have many other uses, particularly as a source of uninterrupted power. Generally, they are used to propel large vehicles, electric vehicles, RVs, and industrial vehicles, such as forklifts. They’re also commonly used for many fishing boats. EarthWave Living carries many types, including 12 volt deep cycle batteries by Fullriver, for these applications and uses.