How to Use a Deep Cycle Battery
A deep cycle battery provides a consistent amount of power over a long period of time. They can surge when needed, but are designed to be discharged repeatedly and not lose their charge. The best examples of a deep cycle battery are in fork lifts, marine vehicles and recreational vehicles. They have much thicker plates than automotive batteries, which allows them to last longer.
- Frequently recharge the battery. You will maintain better quality on your deep cell battery if you don't allow too much time to pass between charges. If you do, this can permanently weaken the battery.
- Discharge between 50 and 80 percent; this is where it will function best. It can function down to 20 percent, but to be sure they will last as long as possible, you should not fall below 20 percent.
- Recharge after each battery cycle. When discharged down to 50 percent, this is referred to as one battery cycle. Keep in mind if you cycled all the way down to 20 percent and you do this consistently, the battery may not last as long.
- Choose the proper battery size. There are various sizes of deep cycle batteries. The larger the battery, the more hours of charge it will provide before needing to be recharged.
- Increase the voltage amount by connecting two deep cycle batteries together. This does not increase the hours of charge it provides, but it can increase the power.
- Avoid undercharging. Undercharging can be just as damaging to the battery as not frequently charging. Be sure to always fully recharge the battery before attempting to use it again.
- Avoid overcharging. Do not leave the battery charged beyond 100 percent. This can also cause permanent damage to the battery. Most batteries, depending on size, should charge in an 8 to 10 hour period. When charging, do not leave completely unattended. Be mindful of the time to check on it periodically.
- Store in moderate temperature. Do not store the battery in temperature extremes.
- Inspect the battery frequently. Occasionally inspect the battery and look for corrosion, leaking or moisture and rectify those problems immediately.
- Check the electrolyte levels. There are kits available to periodically monitor the electrolyte levels in the batteries. This can be adjusted if an imbalance is found.