Today, deep cycle batteries have become energy sources for several types of vehicles and gadgets. Besides, they are important components of electric systems.
If compared to some batteries, deep cycle batteries offer a better flow of energy. They are also tough and withstand long-term use.
If you want to get a deep cycle battery, you might want to know its lifespan and runtime. Luckily, this post has the answer to your questions.
How Long Do Deep Cycle Batteries Last?
A deep cycle battery can last between 1 – 8 years, depending on the quality and degree of use. On a per charge basis, a deep cycle battery can run for a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the load.
Deep cycle batteries might look like car batteries, but they can discharge as much as 80% of energy as many times as required. Moreover, they include solid lead plates.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Deep Cycle Batteries
When it comes to the lifespan of deep cycle batteries, there isn’t a fixed number. After all, the same type of batteries might offer different service lives. With this in mind, the lifespan of a deep cycle depends on the following factors.
Charging
If you allow your battery to charge completely, it becomes conditioned and offers excellent service life. But if you charge sporadically, there is a high chance of shortening the lifespan of the cell.
Temperature
Storing batteries in extreme cold can damage them. But if they are well charged and stored in cool areas, you can get extra years of top performance.
Depth of Discharge
Depth of discharge describes the usage of the deep cycle battery. If the device works hard for long hours, it has more depth of discharge and ends up with a shorter lifespan.
Care
Well-maintained deep cycle batteries enjoy high life spans. For this reason, it is advised that you avoid overcharging the battery or excessive discharge.
What is the Runtime of a Fully Charged Deep Cycle Battery?
If you use a fully charged deep cycle battery, you can get up to a few days of power. But the real duration depends on several conditions such as the usage, health, and temperature of the battery.
How Can I Make My Deep Cycle Battery Last Longer?
There’s nothing much to increasing the lifespan of your battery. With the following ideas, you can add some extra months to your battery life.
Do Not Store the Battery for Long Periods
Avoid keeping the battery in storage for extended periods. If you must store the battery, remember to charge them partially from time to time. Besides, consider buying batteries and using them immediately.
Clean the Battery Correctly
Even if cleaning the battery looks like a good idea, using spray cleaners or other chemicals can cause serious damage. Instead of using such substances, stick with clean water and only clean the outer part of the battery.
Do Not Mismatch Batteries
Avoid connecting old batteries with new ones or using different-sized cells in the same series. For the same purpose, you shouldn’t even use batteries that come from varying brands.
Do not Overcharge or Drain Your Battery
Excess charging and drainage are popular ways to cut battery life. You can avoid this problem by performing periodic checks on plugged-in batteries.
Cover All Vents
Prevent spills by covering the vents of flood-type deep cycle especially during charging. For this task, use the vent caps that came with your battery.
Charge New Batteries Before First Use
Have you got a new pair of deep cycle batteries? If yes, try to charge fully before using them. Experts also recommend that you equalize most types of batteries except sealed lead acid or lithium variants.
Add Some Water
Every 2-3 weeks, add some water to flood-type lead-acid batteries. For this task, ensure that you use distilled water.
Perform Random Checks on the Battery
Wear some gloves and inspect every inch of the battery. If you find any loose connections, try to tighten them properly.
Wrapping Up
Today, deep cycle batteries power many devices. Unlike most types of batteries, these cells use thick lead plates.
The lifespan of a deep cycle battery is between 1 – 8 years. As for the runtime, expect up to a few days. But most times, the actual lifespan and runtime depend on several conditions including battery, temperature, and rate of discharge.
To extend the life of your deep cycle battery, clean the unit with distilled water, charge the battery properly and store new batteries for short periods. Also, avoid overcharging and over-discharging the cell.
