Deep Cycle Batteries & Solar Power

Optima D31M Blue Top Batteries: This is one of the best Deep Cycle Batteries I have found. As you can see they are set up in parallel so that the batteries will give me a lot more discharge time than just having one or two batteries. You will notice all four batteries are at 12.17 volts, not bad considering I haven’t had much sun light to recharge them because of all the snow storms here in N.W. Indiana this Feb. 2010.

Deep Cycle Batteries can withstand repeated deep cycles that is to say [cycling the battery to as low as 10.5 volts] without premature failure. Deep cycle batteries are recommended for applications such as trolling motors, car audio, winches, recreational vehicles, boats, trucks, cars,garages, homes, cabins, shelters, apartments, etc.

The D31 series is Optima’s most powerful single-unit deep cycle battery. Like all Optima batteries, the D31 series deep cycle batteries offer exceptionally high CCA for their size and boast 75 amp hours of current storage for long deep-cycling run times. The D31 deep cycle batteries will not off-gas in normal operation, but for complete safety in enclosed spaces their overpressure vent will accept a remote venting tube. If you have room for a D31 series battery, then gets some. They represent the best performance/cost value on the market. They’re stellar performers in virtually any deep cycle battery application, and their SpiralCell AGM construction make them tough as nails.

Optima Batteries 8052-161 D31M BlueTop Dual Purpose Battery

Why You Will Want An OPTIMA Deep Cycle Battery:

1. Delivers higher peak amps faster than conventional batteries
2. Provides up to twice the life of conventional batteries
3. More consistent voltage across the discharge curve
4. Superior cold and hot weather performance vs. conventional batteries
5. Available in models with SAE posts, stainless threaded studs, or both
6. Spill-proof, even if the case is physically ruptured
7. Will not off-gas in normal operation, eliminating corrosion
8. Over 14x more shock and vibration resistant than conventional batteries
9. Provides more power from a smaller package
10. True zero maintenance
11. Holds charge better during periods of nonuse
12. Operates in any position without spilling
13. Offers proven durability & performance
14. plus I haven’t seen any corrosion by the SAE post or the stainless threaded studs.

You'll Need To 
learn about Amp-Hour Battery Capacity so here we go.

• The capacity of a battery is measured in Amp-Hours [Ah] and is specified at a 20 hour rate.This means a battery with a 100Ah capacity will operate at a discharge rate of 5 Amps for 20 hours. (5A x 20h = 100Ah).If the battery is operated at a higher discharge rate, it will produce less than the rated capacity.
• For example, a 100Ah battery operated at a 10 hour rate (10A) will produce approximately 93Ah
• If this battery is operated at a 1 hour rate (100A), it will produce approximately 60Ah of capacity.