Technical Talk
Choosing the right battery...
With the introduction of higher output alternators and electronic charge Xsplitters charging systems on boats have vastly improved. To benefit fully from a decrease in recharge time and longer runtime the correct battery choice should be made. When making a battery purchase you need to consider - Battery life expectancy (how often is it to be used/number of cycles~), depth of discharge (how much power is required for each use?), level of safety required (spillage and gas risk - sealed vs not sealed) and finally level of maintenance (top ups or maintenance free)
A quick guide is as follows:-
The FLA (Flooded Lead Acid) - Number of cycles is 100, depth of discharge is 50% and is not sealed or maintenance free. It can be used for moderate duty, suitable for leisure & sailing boats. The SFL (Sealed Lead Acid) - Number of cycles is 200, depth of discharge is 60% and is sealed and maintenance free. It has combined starting & deep cycling capability for motor boats & yachts. The SDC (Flooded Semi Traction) - Number of cycles is 300, depth of dishcarge is 70% and is not sealed and maintenance free. It is a heavy duty battery ideal for hir boats, workboats, live-aboards and ocean-going yachts. The AGM (AGM Long Life) - Number of cycles is 300, depth of discharge is 70% and is sealed and maintenance free. It has a longer life and deep cycle capability or motor boats, yachts and narrowboats. The ADC (AGM Deep Cycle) - Number of cycles is 400, depth of dsicharge is 75% and is sealed and maintenance free. It has extra deep cycle capability for hire boats, work boats, live-aboards and ocean-going yachts. Finally the SGEL (GEL Ultra Deep Cycle) - Number of cycles is 500, depth of discharge is 80% and is sealed and maintenance free. It has an ultra deep cycle & long life for ocean-going yachts & continuous live-aboard use.