If you're looking for a battery that can provide long-term power, you should consider deep cycle Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries. Unlike other batteries, lithium (LFP) batteries are designed to be discharged and then recharged multiple times and they can also provide a steady supply of power for an extended period before the voltage drops away effectively, allowing you to use up to 85% of the battery’s rated capacity.
This makes them perfect for caravanning, motorhoming, camping, boating, electric vehicles, and appliances. In this article, we will also discuss lithium vs AGM batteries and everything else you need to know when you're choosing batteries.
Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are made up of plates and separators that are soaked in sulfuric acid that is absorbed in the fiber glass mat separator. This creates a spill-proof battery that can be mounted in virtually any position.
There are two versions of AGM batteries – Standby power for float charging applications such as UPS and then there are deep cycle batteries designed for regular deep discharges and can be recharged and discharged multiple times. They are a popular choice for solar applications, as well as campervans, boats, and electric vehicles.
Deep cycle batteries are different from standard car starter batteries because they can supply power steadily over time. If you think about a standard car starter battery, you only need to use it for a couple of seconds as it provides a burst of power to the vehicle. The battery is then recharged slowly as the car runs. However, AGM batteries will continue to supply power for up to several hours before you need to recharge them.
There are commonly 2 forms of lithium (LFP) batteries so to eliminate confusion, here is a brief description of them.
It is important to note that both Lithium Ion and Lithium Ion Phosphate (LiFePO4/LFP) batteries require a Battery Management System (BMS) built into them when they are manufactured in a capacity greater than 3.6V for several reasons.
The Battery Management System (BMS) performs the function of allowing and controlling the flow of discharge and charge currents as well as managing intercell balancing of the internal cells linked in series and parallel. This is vital to obtain maximum capacity and service life.
It also serves to protect over-discharge by cutting supply internally if the discharge current exceeds the rated capacity of the BMS (i.e. 100A BMS and inverter size of 2000W of 12V is used of that capacity = 166.66 amps which is too much, so to ensure internal cabling and BMS is not stressed to the point of a safety issue, the BMS will cut power supply from the internal cells).
This is the same action for over-discharging overall where for example, the voltage of the 12V battery bank is taken down past 10.5V.
Lithium (LFP) and AGM deep cycle batteries are both cyclic batteries, but there are some key differences between them.
The first difference you'll probably notice is cost. Lithium (LFP) batteries are more expensive than AGM batteries. However, they also have a longer lifespan and can provide more power in a smaller and lighter package.
AGM batteries are typically better at handling large current loads than lithium (LFP) batteries. So if you're using your battery for applications such as starting a boat engine, then an AGM battery is probably the best option.
Lithium (LFP) batteries are better at providing long-term power than AGM batteries. This makes them a popular choice for appliances, electric vehicles, and other applications where a steady power supply is needed.
There are several advantages to using a deep cycle lithium (LFP) battery. Some of the most notable benefits include:
While lithium (LFP) batteries have many advantages, they also have a few disadvantages. Some of the most notable disadvantages include:
When it comes to choosing a battery, there are a few things you should consider. Some of the most important factors include:
Lithium (LFP) batteries are an excellent choice for applications where reliability and durability are important. They have several advantages over other types of batteries, including low maintenance, long lifespan and power output, and light weight.
However, lithium (LFP) batteries aren't always the best choice. They can be expensive and have a limited power output (due to BMS restrictions). They also require a moderate climate to work correctly, don't work well at very low or very high temperatures and not all lithium (LFP) batteries are made equally which leads into the warning that we often see through life.
You Get What You Pay For
So, buyer be aware, do your research.
If you're not sure what type of battery you should buy or have any more questions about batteries, feel free to contact our knowledgeable staff at A1 Batterypro. We'll be happy to give you further advice on choosing the right battery for your needs.
Not sure which battery to buy? Talk to one of our specialists today.
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