Standby Batteries

Battery use can be divided into two categories: cyclical use and standby use. Cyclical use is when a battery is being used as a power source on a regular basis and is being discharged and recharged. In cyclical applications, up to 1,000 charge/discharge cycles can be expected depending on the depth of discharge. Standby batteries are meant to be  used as an emergency power source when the main power source has failed. Standby batteries are connected to a trickle charger that will keep the battery fully charged and ready for use. Standby batteries are designed to have a lifespan of up to five years.

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.

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.