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What is the main difference betweem a starting and a deep cycle battery?
A starting battery is designed for the purpose of starting the engine... thats it! A marine/RV deep
cycle battery is designed to have the capability of many deep discharges. The deep cycle battery can
handle hundreds of discharges where a starting battery is usually in the 20-50 range.
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Should I use a deep cycle or a starting battery?
If you will be discharging the battery once in a while and not more than 30% a starting battery will
be adequate. Just make sure the battery has the proper reserve capacity and CCA(cold cranking amps) for
the application. If the battery will be discharged repetitive times more than 30% a deep cycle battery
is the best choice.
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Can I use a deep cycle battery for a starting battery?
Yes... that is if the battery meets the CCA(cold cranking amps) for your application. A deep cycle
battery will not normally provide as many starts as a starting battery does though.
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Battery options?
The best option in a boat is having a dual battery installation with a battery switch or isolator. This
way a starting battery can be used for the engine and a deep cycle can be used for accessories. If there
is not room for a dual battery installation the use of a high CCA battery with a large reserve capacity
can be used. This can be a deep cycle or starting battery.
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More battery information
- A cycle is a discharge and recharge of a battery.
- First few discharges on a new deep cycle battery should not be deep discharges.
- Lead batteries do not retain a memory.
- A deep cycle battery that is only discharged up to 50% will get more than double the number of cycles
than a battery that is discharged 100%
- Because a battery is a Deep Cycle does not mean it needs to be heavily discharged for proper use.
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See Also
Battery Switch
Battery Isolator
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