Batteries are important partners in solar energy systems. Batteries store excess energy produced by solar systems and also provide backup power during power outages.
Batteries replace the grid by adding them to your solar system.
When solar energy is generated, it will power your home appliances that need electricity.
If the amount of solar energy is less than what your appliance needs, the rest will be taken from the battery. If the battery is empty or can't provide a full load, the rest will still be pulled from the grid as a last resort.
If more solar energy is generated than your appliance needs, the excess will be stored in the battery. If the battery is full, the excess power is fed into the grid as a last resort.
By adding batteries to your solar system, you can make yourself more self-sufficient. More electricity in your home will come from the sun. Batteries give you backup power in the event of a power outage. Our high-end systems will switch you from grid power to battery power in a split second, and you won't even notice the grid has lost power.
Gel battery is a valve-regulated maintenance-free lead-acid battery. Gel batteries are very strong and versatile. This type of battery produces very little fumes and can be used in places without much ventilation.
How do gel batteries work?
A gel battery is a valve-regulated lead-acid battery in which a predetermined amount of electrolyte is mixed with silica fume along with sulfuric acid. This chemical reaction produces a fixed, gel-like substance that gives these batteries their name. Gel batteries are virtually maintenance-free because they use a valve that opens in one direction, allowing the gas inside to recombine into the water, so there's no need to check top up with distilled water or monitor the water level. Gel batteries are very strong and versatile. They can be safely installed in places with restricted ventilation as their gas/smoke production is very low (nearly zero) meaning you can even install batteries in your home.
Special consideration should be given when choosing a charger for gel batteries, as they charge at lower voltages. Overvoltage can cause malfunctions and performance degradation. The term GEL battery is sometimes used to refer to a sealed, maintenance-free battery marked as a setting on the charge controller. This can be confusing and can lead to the wrong charger selection or wrong settings while charging. If other charging methods such as alternators are used, an appropriate voltage regulator must be installed to control the charging voltage. Typical charging voltages for batteries range from 14.0 volts to 14.2 volts, and float voltages range from 13.1 volts to 13.3 volts.
Advantages of Gel Batteries
Gel batteries are gaining popularity in solar systems for the following reasons:
1.Best for deep cycle applications, typically in the range of 500 to 5000 cycles
2.Maintenance free
3.Spill proof
4.Minimal corrosion and therefore compatible with sensitive electronics
5.Rugged and Vibration Resistant
6.Very safe as there is less risk of sulfuric acid burns
7.Minimum cost per month (cost/months of life)
8.Lowest cost per cycle (cost/life cycle)
Disadvantages of Gel Batteries
1.Can't refill in case of overcharging
2.Requires special charger and voltage regulator
Do not confuse AGM batteries with GEL batteries
Today, AGM batteries are often mistaken for gel batteries because of their many similarities.
1.Both are reconstituted - meaning that the oxygen produced on the positive plate is absorbed by the negative plate. Instead of producing hydrogen, the negative plates now produce water, thus maintaining the water content in the battery. That's why AGM and Gel batteries are valve regulated, sealed, spill proof, maintenance free, vibration resistant and can be installed in any location.
2.The notable difference between the two is the difference in electrolytes. The electrolyte used in gel batteries looks like jelly, while the electrolyte in AGM batteries is absorbed in a glass mat that acts like a separator. Due to the properties of the electrolytes used in gel batteries, the batteries lose power quickly at temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas AGM batteries work efficiently at low temperatures.
3.Gel batteries are best for deep discharge because they are less acid and protect the plates better than AGM batteries. AGM is more compatible where high current is required
The gel battery was invented in 1957. Gel batteries are one of two sealed lead acid batteries, the other being an AGM battery. Sealed lead acid batteries are distinct from other lead acid batteries in that they are maintenance-free.
Gel batteries are a maintenance-free alternative to flooded cell deep cycle batteries. They contain a silica-based gel in which battery electrolytes are suspended, allowing electrons to flow freely between plates. The nice thing about spill-proof gel batteries is that they don't leak even if the battery case is broken. These batteries also fight against corrosion and prevent overcharging.
The combination of Gel electrolyte along with highly porous glass micro fiber separator ensure reducing short circuit, higher capacity, longer service life,leak proof operation in any position. Brava advanced GEL Lead acid batteries approved with UL1989, CE, IEC60896, IEC61427, IEC60254, IEC60079 certificates provide maintenance-free and deep cycle performance for UPS, solar/wind, telecommunications, cathodic protection, navigation aids, remote monitoring, RV/marine, golf cart, switchgear, cellular radio etc.
gel battery applications
What's a gel battery?
A gel battery is a dry battery since it doesn't use a liquid electrolyte. In a gel battery, the electrolyte is frozen with silica gel. This keeps the electrolyte inside the battery, preventing it from evaporating or spilling.
This design stabilizes the battery and gives it a low self-discharge. This is a handy feature for batteries that lie idle for long periods.
10 Advantages of a gel battery
Maintenance-free. Because the batteries are comprised of gel instead of liquid, there is little to no maintenance to keep the battery working properly.
6-year lifespan.
Better performance until its end of life then performance drops off sharply.
You can install it sideways since it's spill-proof.Gel batteries have the advantage of being able to be used in virtually any position, because they don’t leak and are generally maintenance free. This greatly increases the number of applications gel batteries can be used for.
Better heat tolerance.
No Leaks: Even though wet cell batteries are sealed in a plastic encasement there is still the chance that it will leak. Gel batteries are also sealed but with a valve that removes excess pressure. This means that between the gel substance and the removal of pressure, there is nowhere for the mixture to go.
Minimal Risk: When damage occurs to a traditional lead-acid battery you are faced with a massive and dangerous clean up (not to mention the impact on anything the battery acid may come into contact with during the process). Gel batteries will not leak out if the casing becomes damaged, so there is a reduced risk of harm coming to the equipment and clean up hazards.
Vibration Resistant: One of the biggest complaints with wet cell batteries is that they are very susceptible to extreme vibration and other impacts. Gel batteries absorb the impact and vibrations, making them great batteries for items such as four wheelers.
No Fumes: Because these batteries are comprised of a gel substance there are minimal fumes created as a result of use. This means that there is a reduced need for ventilation which increases the potential applications gel batteries can be used for, as well as making them easier to charge anywhere.
Resistant To Discharge Death: When using a wet cell battery it’s important that you don’t allow the battery to discharge too much. Otherwise, it will never recharge. Gel cell batteries aren’t that way. They are deep cycle batteries which means that they can discharge more and still be recharged like new.
Disadvantages of a gel battery
You need to store it in a charged condition although this is less critical than as for a flooded lead acid battery.
It requires some ventilation as it releases gas when pressure builds up.
Sensitive to overcharging though this is less so than AGM batteries.
AGM is cheaper and can handle higher loads.
How Does a gel battery Work?
A gel battery (often referred to as a gel cell battery) is a lead-acid battery that is valve regulated. When the electrolyte is mixed with sulphuric acid and silica, it becomes a relatively stationary gel substance.
This gel mixture allows the battery to utilize the acid and electrolyte in the same way it would with a traditional lead-acid battery, just without the added maintenance.
When should you choose a gel battery?
Gel batteries are an alternative to flooded lead acid. They're suited for a battery backup system or an off-grid home. If you don't mind the extra expense, a gel battery is a better option if you're looking into lead acid batteries. This is because you won't have to worry about maintenance.
Are gel batteries better than AGM batteries?
Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are the other sealed lead acid battery. How do gel batteries compare to AGM batteries?
For starters, gel batteries can be more expensive. They also need specific chargers to prevent overcharging. Not using these chargers reduces the batteries lifespan.
They're also don't work as well with appliances that need a higher current because they have a higher internal resistance.
On the other hand, gel batteries have a longer lifespan. This is because:
They hold more acid because of their design.
They have a better temperature tolerance. They have improved heat transfer to the outside. The gel moves heat, whereas the absorbent glass mat of the AGM acts as an insulator.
They also maintain their performance over a longer period. AGM batteries gradually fade as they get older.
Feature
Gel batteries
AGM batteries
Cost
Expensive compared to AGM batteries
Less expensive compared to gel batteries
Charge
The battery can be ruined even if it is brand new if you make one charging mistake, like overcharging or using a tapering charger
Hold their charge well and charge quickly
Technology
Gel paste suspends the electrolyte in the battery case of a gel battery
Internally, the electrolyte is wicked into a glass matt to prevent leakage
Life expectancy
You can fully discharge gel batteries up to 90% and still get a much longer cycle life than you would with AGM batteries
Discharging your AGM battery more than 50% and up to 70% is okay, but doing so frequently will significantly shorten the battery’s cycle life
Are gel batteries better than flooded batteries?
A flooded lead acid battery is a wet battery since it uses a liquid electrolyte. Unlike a gel battery, a flooded lead acid battery needs maintenance by topping up the water in the battery every 1-3 months.
Gel batteries are the safer lead acid batteries because they release less hydrogen gas from their vent valves. This makes them safer to install where there is limited ventilation. Hydrogen release or gassing is a minor safety concern with flooded lead acid batteries.
Because of how they're made, they can be oriented in any way. They can be stacked pancake-style which may improve cycle life. Flooded lead acid batteries are kept upright to avoid acid spills.
What Is A Deep Cycle Gel Battery?
A deep cycle battery is a type of battery that can use to provide power for extended periods.
It stores more energy than conventional batteries, and it’s able to withstand the repeated charging and discharging cycles necessary in solar installations or other renewable energy systems.
Deep cycle gel batteries are among the most popular types of deep-cycle batteries on the market today because they’re designed with safety in mind while still providing high performance.
What Is The Difference Between A Deep Cycle Battery And A Gel Battery?
It is not uncommon for people to confuse deep cycle batteries and gel batteries. They are very different in many ways, but the most important distinction is that a deep cycle battery can be used regularly while a gel battery cannot.
So this is the big difference that I have shared with you between the deep cycle and gel batteries. Furthermore, the difference is;
Deep cycle batteries are made of lead-acid cells, which produce an electric current when they react with sulfuric acid and water.
A deep cycle battery is typically used in a boat or RV. It can be discharged more without damaging it than many other batteries, but it’s typically heavier and less expensive.
While A gel battery has additives that help prevent the electrolyte from leaking out of the cell when it’s overcharged.
This makes them safer to use in certain situations, like on motorcycles or scooters, often exposed to extreme temperatures.
Gel batteries also cost more than most types of lead-acid batteries, which means you’ll usually only see them in higher-end products.
Knowing this information will help you find the best type of battery for your needs!
How Long Do Deep-Cycle Gel Batteries Last?
When peoples buy an expensive battery, they want the time of lasting the batteries should extend. However, you can use deep cycle batteries for over 6 years or more if you charge properly and care about it.
It is totally up to you how you are keeping this battery to taking care of and whats your charging routine is to charge your battery.
Because, as you know, if you charge the battery over time, the battery may damage.
How Do You Revive A Dead Gel Battery?
Because gel batteries are sealed, unlike fluid-based batteries, the cells cannot access them.
The best technique to repair and recover a gel battery is fully discharged it and then slowly charge it again.
Are Gel Batteries Worth It?
Gel batteries are worthwhile since their performance is maintained throughout their lifespan. Its build custom, according to Battery University, produces a dome-shaped curve in its power output. There is no declining voltage, which is a common problem with other batteries.
Get a Gel Battery For All Your Needs
Gel batteries offer the ability to save energy for the benefit of future generations. As the supply of electricity decreases, batteries become more important to human life as the population grows.
We recommend using a gel battery because:
There will be no need to do routine maintenance.
There will be no spills, providing no considerable and hazardous risk because you will not come into contact with the acid.
Because of the low amount of corrosion, gel batteries can be used with sensitive electronic equipment.
Gel batteries are extremely durable and vibration resistant.
Because there is a reduced possibility of sulfuric acid burns, it is very safe.
The battery will last far longer than a lead-acid battery for the same amount of use because of its high lifespan.
When it comes to properly capturing solar energy, choosing the correct battery is critical for best performance and long-term dependability. The lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery stands out as a leading candidate for solar applications among the different battery alternatives available. In this post, we'll look at why LiFePO4 is regarded as the finest solar battery, with real-world examples demonstrating its benefits in residential energy storage systems.
Actual Case 1: The Smith family decided to invest in a solar energy system for their home, including a home energy storage battery. After careful research and consultation with AJPOWER, they opted for a LiFePO4 battery to complement their solar panels, inverter, and MPPT charge controller. The Smiths were impressed by the LiFePO4 battery's exceptional performance and longevity, with a lifespan of up to 10 years and a higher number of charge-discharge cycles compared to other battery chemistries. This robust battery technology allowed the Smith family to maximize their solar energy usage, store excess energy generated during the day, and utilize it during peak demand or when the sun was not shining. The LiFePO4 battery proved to be the ideal choice for their home energy storage system, ensuring reliable and sustainable power.
Actual Case 2: AJPOWER worked closely with the Johnsons, who were looking for a personalized scheme design for their solar-powered off-grid cabin. As the Johnsons desired a reliable and efficient energy storage solution, AJPOWER recommended a LiFePO4 battery due to its superior performance characteristics. The LiFePO4 battery's high energy density, fast charging capabilities, and resistance to high temperatures perfectly matched the Johnsons' requirements. With the personalized scheme designed by AJPOWER, the Johnsons achieved uninterrupted power supply, even during extended periods of cloudy weather. The LiFePO4 battery proved to be the ideal choice for their off-grid solar system, ensuring reliable power for all their needs.
AJPOWER's LiFePO4 battery excels in numerous critical areas as part of their comprehensive home energy storage solutions. It has a greater energy density, which means it can store more energy in a smaller space, making it useful for space-constrained applications. Furthermore, compared to other battery chemistries, LiFePO4 batteries have a decreased danger of thermal runaway, making them safer and more stable. They also have a wide working temperature range, allowing them to function well in a variety of settings. AJPOWER's personalised scheme design service guarantees that each customer's specific energy needs are addressed by providing bespoke solutions that connect LiFePO4 batteries with solar panels, inverters, and MPPT charge controllers.
If you are thinking about installing a solar energy system, AJPOWER is your reliable partner in developing customised plans. Contact our professional staff to discuss your energy requirements and the potential of a LiFePO4 battery for your home energy storage system. With AJPOWER's experience and quality solutions, you may enjoy the benefits of dependable, efficient, and sustainable electricity.
