Long Life Batteries

Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) batteries have a life expectancy that is based on how they are designed as well as how they are used. Three factors can affect the longevity: Temperature, Cycle Life and Depth of Discharge.

Temperature: The rated capacity of a battery is based on a narrow temperature range. When the battery is exposed to temperatures outside of that range, the usable life will be shortened. 

Cycle life: This is the number of charge and discharge cycles of the battery. The more discharges and the deeper the discharges, the shorter the battery life.

Depth of Discharge (DOD): This is the percentage of the battery that has been discharged relative to the battery capacity. When a battery is discharged entirely or past the maximum recommended DOD, the battery life will be shortened.

Long life batteries are considered a hybrid of deep cycle and high rate batteries with the added benefit of enhanced floating life. Deep cycle batteries provide continuous power output over long periods of time and can withstand repeated charge/discharge cycles at 80% DOD. High rate batteries deliver high power for short periods of time at 50% DOD with a 14-16 year life.

Float mode, also known as standby mode, is maintaining a battery in a charged condition by a long-term, constant voltage at a level sufficient to offset self-discharge. An enhanced floating life allows long life batteries to be ready for use in high rate, heavy duty applications such as uninterrupted power supply, telecom and marine environments.