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theoldwizard1's avatar
theoldwizard1
Explorer II
Oct 20, 2018

The difference between starting and deep discharge batteries

I just stumbled across this short (5 minute) video that explain how a lead acid battery works.

If you want to cut to the chase and see the difference between a regular starting battery and a deep discharge battery jump to 3:10


Quick comparison : a Group 27 (starting or marine/dual purpose) has almost the same foot print as the Trojan T-1275 (size GC12, a TRUE 12V deep discharge battery), but the T-1275 is a over 2" taller to accommodate the (EDIT: corrected to say) lead sulphate that comes off of the plates as shown in the video.

27 Replies

  • Lots of confusion here! My own confusion is with AGMs, where mine are rated as "deep cycle", but also have specs for using them as stand-by batteries, what-ever they mean by that.

    The thing is several posts in various threads have said that there is not much if any difference amongst AGMs for how they are built. There is a difference in acid amount though.

    I gather that a true UPS battery will have a lower SG (acid- starved?) than the deep cycle type (or dual purpose type if that is the same as a deep cycle with AGMs).

    Otherwise the OP seems to be preaching to the choir for some reason.
  • pianotuna wrote:
    The video does not mention SO2.
    But the OP does. And, battery caps allow gas to escape, so there's no need for additional height to "accommodate" it.
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Old-Biscuit wrote:
    Short version

    Starting Batteries
    *These batteries deliver a large burst of power for a short time as needed for normal engine starting. Not designed to withstand multiple discharge/recharge cycles and draining can significantly shorten its life.

    Deep-cycle Batteries
    *These batteries are designed to provide a steady amount of current over a long period of time. Can be repeatedly discharged and recharged without causing damage or shortening their life. (within reason)


    Gee I have been saying that for a Llllooooonnnnnngggggg time.

    Thanks for saving me the typing.
  • SO2?

    If the plates emit SO2 the lifespan would be measured in months. Deplete the O2 and that leaves free hydrogen. What kindergarten chemistry "class" did the guy say he graduated from? I refuse to look at the video because I don't want to damage my ribs. SO2 is only emitted in stage 4 of plate death the last wheeze while the fat lady is wailing...

    Be cautious with YOUBOOB training videos these guys have no oversight, no responsibility and sometimes no common or uncommon, sense.

    There is just as much "RHUME" (Jacques Clouseau) on top of electrolyte of a group 34 as there is in an L16.

    The sediment chamber is deeper in a deep cycle battery.

    Then we move on to grid, paste, and separator differences.

    When are child psychology segments going to make their appearance? OH WAIT look around. They're already here.
  • Short version

    Starting Batteries
    *These batteries deliver a large burst of power for a short time as needed for normal engine starting. Not designed to withstand multiple discharge/recharge cycles and draining can significantly shorten its life.

    Deep-cycle Batteries
    *These batteries are designed to provide a steady amount of current over a long period of time. Can be repeatedly discharged and recharged without causing damage or shortening their life. (within reason)

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