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.