The depth of discharge (DoD) for lead-acid batteries can vary depending on the specific type of lead-acid battery. Here are some general guidelines for common lead-acid battery types:
- Flooded Lead-Acid Batteries:
- Standard flooded lead-acid batteries typically have a recommended depth of discharge between 50% and 80%. Going beyond this range can impact the battery’s lifespan.
- Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA) Batteries:
- VRLA batteries, including absorbed glass mat (AGM) and gel batteries, often have a recommended depth of discharge of around 50% to 80%. Exceeding this range can lead to reduced cycle life.
It’s important to note that discharging a lead-acid battery beyond its recommended depth of discharge can negatively impact its cycle life, which refers to the number of charge-discharge cycles the battery can undergo before its capacity significantly degrades.
To get the specific depth of discharge recommendations for a particular lead-acid battery, it’s advisable to refer to the manufacturer’s technical documentation. The optimal depth of discharge may vary based on the battery’s design, construction, and intended application.