A battery is defined as a device that stores chemical energy which can be converted to electrical energy. There are different types of batteries, one of which is the lead-acid battery. Lead-acid batteries are rechargeable. There are two types of charging lead-acid batteries: float use and cyclic use.
Float Use
Float use is also known as the “standby use” battery. This battery is used as an alternate source of power; it is used during emergencies wherein the main power source has failed. It is recommended to be fully charged and ready for use anytime. Voltage for this battery is lower; it is approximately 13.2-13.7 volts. The product lifespan of this battery is five years.
This battery has a greater number of thin cell plates. This increases surface area and creates a maximum current output. However, this design could not support repetitive discharge. Repetitive discharge will cause a breakdown of the electrodes, hence failure of the battery. Furthermore, this battery is lighter when compared to a same size of a cyclic use battery. The battery case is half-filled with cell plates (cell plates do not reach the bottom). This design prolongs the battery life by collecting and preventing any disintegrated debris from touching the cell plates.
This battery is usually seen on emergency light systems.
Cyclic Use
Cyclic use is also known as “deep cycle” battery. Unlike the former, cyclic use can be discharged and recharged repetitively. However, this battery should not be over-charged else damage will occur. Compared to the former, voltage supplied by this battery is up to 14.7 volts. On average, the product lifespan of this battery is up to 1000 charges and discharges. An indication that the battery should be replaced is when the standby capacity of the battery has decreased.
Compared to the former, this battery has thicker cell plates that can endure constant discharge. It is also designed to prevent disintegration of electrodes during discharge.
Cyclic use battery could be used on devices that would usually drain out the charge such as water pumps, lights, trolling motors, and electric vehicles.
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