Batteries

Binder-Man

Considering there are very few battery manufacturers anymore, Depending one where you are in the US or Canada, you may have only 1 or 2 manufacturers branding everything in your area.

So what you really are paying for is 1) the CCA ratings, 2) How much lead is actually on the plates/spacing between plates- which is the same for automobiles 3) The name of the company on the label. The first two items determine the majority of price differnces and actual quality of the battery.

If you doubt the low number of manufacturers, look for a number code embossed, engraved, stamped, etc in the battery case itself, and compare a few different "brands", and you will encounter the same coding. The real differences relate to the first two items I mentioned above. The third one determines the extent of the warranty and warranty schedule.

The most apparent example are the "rolled plate" types- the ones that look like a six pack of beer- All are made by just one company no matter whose name is on it.

oldcasecoltguy

Also keeping the top of the battery dry between cells and between posts, otherwise the battery can discarge from conductive film across the top of the battery in as little time as a couple of weeks.

Another thing to consider is to invest in a device or build it; a "Desulphater". They sound gimicky, but even if you bought one, it would pay for itself within the usual 4 or 5 batteries you have replaced normally.

In other words, for those who would be replacing the battery every year, that same battery could be extended to a life expectancy of at least 3 years on average at the low end. Usually they are available from solar power suppliers, but they can easily be found with an internet search looking just for "desulphator".