12V batteries play a vital role in powering all equipment and applications. Understanding the different types of 12V batteries can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs. This guide will take an in-depth look at all kinds of 12V batteries, including their applications, advantages, and disadvantages, to ensure you have all the information you need to choose the best battery for your needs!
Inside this Article:
What are 12V batteries?
A 12V battery is a battery rated at 12 volts (12V). Due to their versatility and efficiency, they are widely used for a variety of applications. The size of a 12V battery is usually determined by its application and the number of ampere-hours it is designed to produce. In some cases, they can be very large and heavy or very small and light. They can be cylindrical or square batteries.
Types of 12V batteries
There are two common types of 12V batteries: lead-acid and lithium-ion . Each type has advantages and scenarios, and it is important to choose the right battery for your specific application needs.
1️⃣Flooded lead-acid batteries
This is by far the most common type of 12V battery. It consists of suspended lead plates immersed in a sulphuric acid solution. This arrangement and structure help create the chemical reaction that stores energy. However, for this type of battery to work properly, it must be filled with sufficient water. This means that the battery needs to be monitored for proper maintenance. A regular battery has a lifespan of about 2 to 5 years and is quite affordable at $100.
Pros: One of the main features of this battery is that it has been around for a long time. This makes its parts cheap and easy to find. This battery has a wide range of applications and is often used to start car engines.
Cons: The battery requires a lot of maintenance and monitoring, as it needs a certain amount of fluid to keep functioning. It is also heavy, not portable, and has a relatively short life.
2️⃣Sealed valve-regulated lead-acid batteries (VRLA)
This battery is an upgrade from the 12-volt open lead-acid battery. This battery is sealed and filled with the necessary components for the battery to function properly. When the battery is running, all the chemicals are sealed inside, creating hydrogen gas pressure.
Eventually, this gas turns to water and the air pressure can exceed the battery pressure. Regulating valves are used to regulate this pressure to meet the needs of the battery. With this mechanism, the battery has a life of approximately 2 to 8 years.
Pros: No need to monitor maintenance. They are more expensive than liquid-rich batteries but offer more features.
Cons: The price may put off buyers who are concerned about the price of batteries. Also, a well-maintained vented battery can last longer than a sealed valve-regulated lead-acid battery. However, it is susceptible to various external factors such as extreme high and low temperatures.
3️⃣12V Gel Battery
This type of lead-acid battery has lead plates that are held in gel form inside the battery. 12V gel batteries can last up to 2 to 5 years and should cost between $100 and $800.
Pros: Gel batteries work perfectly in extreme conditions such as extreme heat or cold. They require little to no maintenance because you don't have to worry about leaking fluid. Gel batteries are resistant to vibration and are suitable for mobile devices.
Cons: 12V gel batteries require a lot of care when charging. They are usually charged using a charge controller and require different charging cycles at lower voltages.
4️⃣AGM 12V Battery
AGM is an absorbent glass fiber mat technology, a type of sealed lead-acid battery. This battery allows the lead plates to rest between the glass fiber-saturated electrolyte mat. This increases the speed of charging and discharging. These batteries can last from 4 to 7 years and the cheapest batteries can cost up to $200.
Pros: AGM batteries do not require any form of maintenance as they can withstand harsh conditions. They don't require a special charger and tend to last longer. They are also suitable for high-vibration environments.
Cons: AGM batteries are initially more expensive than lead acid or gel battery types. Finally, AGMs are more sensitive to overcharging and over-discharging, and they have very strict requirements and usage guidelines to achieve their potential and maximize their use.
5️⃣12V Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion 12V batteries are the most common type of 12V battery available.
Pros: Lithium-ion 12V batteries are much more powerful than lead-acid 12V batteries. Lithium-ion batteries use lithium salts instead of acid or any form of liquid, which increases their capacity. Lithium-ion batteries have a high energy density, long life, no memory effect, and are safe and environmentally friendly, making them a better alternative to lead-acid batteries.
Cons: 12V Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive than other types of batteries.
The following are different sizes of 12V lithium-ion batteries:
| Product | Capacity | Price |
 |
12V 7Ah | |
 |
12V 20Ah | $77.99 |
 |
12V 100Ah | $324.99 |
 |
12V 200Ah | $621.99 |
How does a 12V battery work?
The operation of a 12V battery relies on chemical reactions within the battery.
In a lead-acid battery:
Discharge process: When the battery is connected to a load, a chemical reaction takes place between the lead plates and oxidized sulphuric acid. The lead oxide on the positive electrode is oxidized again, while the pure lead on the negative electrode is reduced, producing an electrical current.
Charging: when connected to a charger, the reverse reaction occurs and current is passed through the electrolyte solution, reducing the lead oxide to lead, while the lead on the negative terminal oxidizes to form lead oxide.
In lithium-ion batteries:
Discharge process: during discharge, lithium ions move through the electrolyte from the negative electrode to the positive electrode, producing electrical energy. The positive electrode is generally composed of metal oxides (such as LiFePO4 ), and the negative electrode is carbon material.
Charging process: During charging, lithium ions move from the positive electrode back to the negative electrode.
Advantages of using 12V lithium-ion batteries?
12V lithium-ion batteries have been able to develop rapidly and become widely used thanks to several advantages:
High energy density
Can store more energy in a smaller size than lead-acid batteries, making them ideal for portable devices.
No memory effect
Lithium-ion batteries have virtually no memory effect and do not need to be fully charged or discharged to maintain good performance, allowing users to recharge as needed.
Longer life
Lithium-ion batteries have a longer cycle life and can be charged and discharged thousands of times. As a result, they typically last longer than lead-acid batteries.
Maintenance-free operation
Lithium-ion batteries require little maintenance, whereas liquid-rich lead-acid batteries require regular maintenance.
Faster charging time
Lithium-ion technology charges faster than conventional lead-acid batteries. It can be fully charged in less time, increasing user efficiency.
Use of 12V lithium battery
Gone are the days of lugging around a bulky generator. Or worse - being left without power in the dark, cold outdoors because you ran out of back-up power. The development of lightweight lithium batteries has changed the way you approach and experience outdoor adventures - they're not only long-lasting, but they're also more versatile than you might think. If you're not sure what you can do with 12V lithium batteries, scroll down:
The ultimate weapon for sea fishing
Conventional batteries are good at 'tricking' you with temptingly low prices and poor quality. The real winner for your bass boat or kayak is the 12-volt lithium battery . Their lightweight and high energy density not only reduce the weight of the boat but also save space inside the boat. 12V lithium batteries can be used to power a wide range of onboard electronics such as navigation, lights, radios, and other rechargeable fishing equipment, so you can enjoy fishing on the water without worrying about power.
Traveling with a caravan or trailer
Lithium batteries are the best in the RV industry, and for good reason! These lithium batteries outlast and outperform the competition by far. Install a 12-volt lithium battery in your RV or motorhome and it will provide consistent and reliable power for a wide range of equipment in your RV, including refrigerators, lights, air conditioners, TVs, and more.
Whether you're a wilderness camper, snow camper, or full-time camper, your RV is sure to benefit from the many uses of 12V lithium batteries.
Off-grid tiny house living
Tiny houses are not just props to be seen on television. More and more people are choosing these tiny homes, partly because of the ease with which they can be powered. For those living in off-grid cabins, 12V lithium batteries are an ideal backup power option. You can use 12V lithium batteries for lighting, communication devices, small appliances, and more, ensuring that your basic needs are met in the cabin so that you can still enjoy a comfortable life away from the city.
The 12V lithium batteries for cabins are usually combined with solar panels and charge controllers. This allows you to have another affordable holiday in a small house.
Backup power for home or travel
The 12V lithium battery can be used as an emergency power source in the event of a power cut or emergency. Particularly in areas where power cuts are common, having a backup power source will keep your essentials running when you need them. Unlike generators, lithium batteries provide instant power, ensuring that your appliances are not damaged by power outages. Just one more reason to be thankful for a 12V lithium battery!
If you rely on an electric scooter or wheelchair, a 12V lithium battery can be your declaration of independence. It will lighten the load on your scooter and make it easier to maneuver. It also charges faster and lasts longer than conventional batteries. So you'll have more time to do the things you love with the people you love.
Energy storage for small solar systems
Want to go green? Harness renewable energy with a small solar panel unit. Use it to charge your 12V lithium batteries and store energy for rainy days. When it comes to charging, lithium batteries and solar panels are a perfect match. This is because lithium batteries charge quickly and require a low resistance charge, which is exactly what solar panels provide.
Portable power for the extras
There's no shame in 'luxury camping'. If you're carrying a 12V lithium battery to power your laptop, mobile phone, speakers, fans, and TV, you might ask, 'Why not take it with you?' 12V lithium batteries are lightweight and fit easily into a hiking rucksack. Lithium batteries have excellent temperature and motion resistance, which is important for outdoor adventures. Whether it's a hot desert or a cold mountain, lithium batteries provide a reliable power supply to keep your equipment running and make luxury camping more comfortable and convenient.
The mobile office assistant
Powering a laptop on the move is something many travelers see as a necessity rather than an 'extra'. Especially for those who need to connect a camera or charge it for their daily work, a mobile power supply is essential. Your 12V Li-Ion battery provides that power - a portable, lightweight power solution that's easy to take anywhere. What's more, this battery supports fast charging (in just 2 hours or less), so you'll always have plenty of power. Wherever you are, even in the remotest wilderness, the 12V lithium battery provides stable and reliable power to keep you working.
How do I maintain my 12V battery?
Proper maintenance of 12V batteries can extend their life and ensure good performance.
For lead-acid batteries
- Check fluid levels regularly and top up with distilled water if necessary.
- Clean the terminals to prevent corrosion.
- Keep them charged and avoid deep discharges.
For lithium-ion batteries
- Store at recommended temperatures; avoid extreme heat or cold.
- Use an appropriate charger designed for lithium technology.
- If available, use the built-in management system to regularly monitor the charge status.
Why do cars need 12V batteries?
Automotive electrical systems have long used the 12V voltage standard. This standard is widely used and accepted by many vehicle manufacturers and suppliers. 12V systems provide sufficient power but are also relatively stable and less susceptible to voltage fluctuations. Therefore, if a battery produces a much higher voltage than a 12V battery, it is likely to pose a significant safety risk.
Can I charge a 12V battery?
Yes, you can charge a 12V battery. You will need to find the right charger, then connect the black negative lead of the charger to the negative terminal of the 12V battery and the positive lead to the positive terminal. Learn more tips for charging lithium batteries .
