Whether you're using a multi-battery setup or relying on a single battery for your work truck, having a dependable power source is crucial to keep you on the road and running all your electrical equipment. To ensure the best performance, there are a few important questions to consider. Are all batteries suitable for multi-battery systems? Should you opt for conventional flooded lead acid batteries? And if only one battery type is an option, which one should you choose?
In general, the best battery is one you can rely on. This means selecting a battery that fits the specific needs of your application, offers strong performance, and provides long-lasting reliability.
Although conventional flooded lead acid batteries may seem more affordable upfront, they could cost more over time. Let's take a closer look at the key differences between dual-purpose and conventional flooded lead acid batteries to help you make an informed decision.
Often referred to as "starter batteries," conventional flooded lead acid batteries are designed to provide a powerful burst of energy for a short duration, such as when starting an engine. Once the engine is running, the battery is recharged by the vehicle's alternator. These batteries consist of a plastic case and cover that encase lead plates submerged in a liquid electrolyte (dilute sulfuric acid). Unlike deep-cycle batteries, starter batteries are intended for shallow cycles only, and frequent deep cycling can significantly reduce their lifespan.
All batteries naturally self-discharge when not in use, but flooded lead acid batteries tend to have a higher self-discharge rate and are more susceptible to the effects of extreme temperatures.
Additionally, conventional flooded lead acid batteries require more maintenance, such as adding water and cleaning terminals to prevent corrosion. These batteries are typically less durable, as their cases and covers are not designed to withstand the heavy shock and vibration often encountered in commercial vehicle use. Cracks in the casing can lead to acid leaks, and excessive vibration can damage internal components. Performance is also highly sensitive to extreme temperatures.
Dual purpose batteries are ideal for applications that require both strong cranking power and low-amp draw (cycling) capability to support extended auxiliary power needs for electrical accessories. Among these, Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) sealed batteries are known for their superior performance.
In AGM batteries, positive and negative lead plates are separated by an absorbent glass mat that holds the electrolyte, rather than having the plates immersed in it. The plates and separator are tightly compressed within the cells and housed in a durable plastic case. This high compression helps minimize plate material "shedding" during cycling, which significantly extends the battery's lifespan. Additionally, the tight compression reduces internal resistance, maximizing power output and enhancing performance in colder temperatures.
Dual purpose AGM batteries, designed for deep cycling, charge up to five times faster than conventional flooded lead acid batteries and offer a depth of discharge of 80 percent, compared to the 50 percent depth available in flooded lead acid batteries at the same cycle life rating.
Sealed AGM batteries are highly efficient in minimizing water loss and recombining most of the gases produced inside the battery. These batteries are also equipped with a valve that releases excess pressure from minor gassing during the charging process.
AGM dual purpose batteries offer numerous advantages over conventional batteries, with key differences highlighted below. When evaluating how these benefits align with your work truck's needs, consider the following:
- Exceptional starting capability
- Reliable deep cycle performance
- Longer battery life—up to three times more starts per battery
- Low self-discharge rate
- Charges up to five times faster
- Low maintenance requirements
- Minimizes surface corrosion
- Superior cold weather performance
- Less prone to sulfation and grid corrosion
- Robust, vibration-resistant construction
- Non-spill design, making them safer to handle
- Special valves to extend battery lifespan
When selecting a battery for your work truck, the saying “you get what you pay for” has never been more accurate. Investing in a high-quality dual purpose battery will ultimately save you money compared to conventional flooded lead acid batteries through reduced maintenance, better performance, and longer battery life. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for battery care and handling, and consult a battery professional if you have any questions.
Whether you're planning a quick fishing trip on your bay boat or an overnight offshore adventure on a large center console, your boat's performance depends largely on its batteries. While boat batteries may resemble the ones found in your car, they face unique challenges that must be considered for marine use.
It's also important to recognize that boat batteries come in different types, and they're not always interchangeable. Your planned activities on the water may significantly impact the type of battery you need, and you may require multiple battery types unless you plan ahead.
As the name suggests, deep-cycle batteries are designed for sustained, light usage over extended periods. They're built to be discharged and recharged frequently, making them ideal for applications like running an electric trolling motor or powering onboard electronics.
If you rely on a lot of electronic systems on your boat, deep-cycle batteries are essential. However, they can't handle engine starting on their own, so you'll also need a separate starting battery to fire up the engine when you first power on the boat.
Dual-purpose marine batteries, as the name indicates, combine the capabilities of both starting and deep-cycle batteries in a single unit. These batteries can handle both functions simultaneously, making them a good choice for boats with limited space for multiple batteries.
However, depending on their construction and materials, dual-purpose batteries may not perform as well as batteries designed specifically for one function.
