Now you need to interpret the reading and although we talk about 12V batteries and accessories, this description is only nominal. If a leisure battery achieves a 12V reading, it is considered to have reached a discharged state. Products made differently such as gel, lead-crystal, lithium and AGM batteries are mentioned later in this guide.

In Japan, battery failure is the largest complaint among new car owners. The average car is only driven 13 km (8 miles) per day and mostly in a congested city. As a result, the batteries will never get fully charged and sulfation occurs. The batteries in Japanese cars are small and only provide enough power to crank the engine and perform some rudimentary functions. North America may be shielded from these battery problems, in part because of long distance driving.

Why VARTA® Professional Dual Purpose AGM batteries?

In contrast, a leisure battery has to provide a steady flow of current over a prolonged period and seldom gets replenished until the user recognises that its voltage level has substantially fallen. That’s when a re-charge is duly provided. If left long in a discharged state, a battery will generally not regain its former condition. Furthermore, manufacturers often recommend that re-charging is commenced when a battery drops to 50 per cent of its full condition. We are unable to ship to the following post codes on any service but may be able to obtain a quote: Battery manufacturers often strongly advise that a battery receives a re-charge when its capacity falls below 50 per cent of its full condition. It is also added that you should never run a leisure battery until it is virtually ‘flat’. Further details are covered in the battery charging guide. Leisure batteries power those travel essentials, like fridges, phones and televisions. Used in boats, caravans and motorhomes, leisure batteries are built to consistently deliver 12v power - perfect for your home appliances outside of your home. Sparks sometimes occur when connecting up a battery and good quality clamps are needed. Temporary crocodile clips, often supplied with battery chargers, are not suitable for permanent connections. Also note that a spark can cause ignition of releasing gas or residual gas left in a cell.

Cost is the issue, they can typically be more than five times the price of a good quality lead-acid battery. Maintenance-free batteries Never leave a battery in a discharged state. If recharging is delayed, a situation known as sulphation occurs in which a white deposit forms on a battery’s plates. In general this is an incurable condition, which renders a battery useless. Lead Acid - Lead Acid is the most common type. They require maintenance and need venting. They take damage if left to run flat. Valve Regulated Lead Acid batteries operate in the same way but do not require venting.When inspecting battery cells, wear safety clothing including eye protection and gloves. Battery acid also damages clothing.