Thanks Dennis.

I found some FAQ's about batteries, via link on Frank C's post about
his solar setup.

More info on deep cycle hybrids, true deep cycles etc:

http://www.windsun.com/Batteries/Battery_FAQ.htm#Major%20Battery%20Types

Cheers,

Neil.

--
Neil Nicholson. 1981 Air Cooled Westfalia.

http://web.mac.com/tubaneil

On 7/29/07, Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@hotmail.com> wrote:
> Of the battery choices out there, a conventional flooded cell will be the
> most tolerant of use and abuse and provide the longest life. Most of the
> 12 volt deep cycle batteries or beefed up starting batteries and still
> have short lives of one or 2 seasons. The golf cart batteries are a lot
> more tolerant of heavy use.
>
>
>
> Of the common, reasonable price brands, Trojans are probably the best.
> Best plates and a lot of active material in the plates. Yes there are
> better such as Rolls Surrette but bring money.
>
>
>
> AGM and Gel batteries is still emerging technologies and the advertising
> is a lot of hype. While sold as sealed, they are truly sealed. All of them
> have some type of pressure relief vent.  Temperature changes can cause the
> vents to weep and once the electrolyte is lost it can not be replaced.
> Most cell failures are the result of dry out. Unless you truly have an
> application requiring a sealed battery, they are not worth the money.
>
>
>
> Any battery can boil, off gas from a failure, whatever. For an RV
> application, the batteries should be installed in some type of sealed and
> vented compartment, especially if you plan to sleep while the batteries
> are being charged. This is not always practical so consider a flammable
> gas detector. They will pick up hydrogen. Plastic battery boxes are
> available for most any sized battery. They can be placed under the seat
> and you can install drain and vent of desired. At least if a battery boils
> out, the acid will be contained.
>
>
>
> For wiring and charging, the circuit needs to sized for both charging the
> battery and any load connected to it. This includes inverters. The GC-2
> will pull about 40 amps off the alternator during the bulk charge. Add you
> other loads. Best results will also be a direct line from the alternator.
> #6 gauge. Also, you want a truly reliable relay. Most important that it
> disconects when expected. You want double break contacts like in those
> solenoid type cans.  Not a small lighting relay.
>
>
>
> Dennis
>