Are you in the market for a new battery and wondering which one to choose? SLA and AGM batteries are two popular options, but how do they differ? Which one is better suited for your needs? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between these two types of batteries and help you determine which one is the best fit for your application. So let’s dive in!
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What is an SLA battery?
An SLA battery is a lead acid battery that uses a porous microfiber separator between the positive and negative plates. The separator is designed to allow oxygen to pass through it, which recombines with the electrolyte to form water. This process is called “oxygen recombination” and it significantly extends the life of an SLA battery.
SLA batteries are often used in applications where long life and maintenance-free operation are important, such as in backup power systems, solar energy systems, and industrial equipment.
What is an AGM battery?
An AGM battery, also known as a VRLA or valve regulated lead acid battery, is a type of rechargeable battery that uses Absorbent Glass Mat technology to minimize the risk of spillage and leakage. The electrolyte in an AGM battery is suspended in a fiberglass mat, which allows for more stable performance and longer life span than traditional lead acid batteries. AGM stands for absorbent glass mat, which denotes a thin separator made of fine glass fibers positioned between the positive and negative plates of a battery. This separator is designed to absorb all the battery acid. AGM batteries are a type of advanced lead-acid batteries.
AGM batteries are typically used in high-end applications such as golf carts, trolling motors, and UPS systems due to their higher power density and longer life span. However, they are also becoming increasingly popular in lower-end applications such as RVs and boats due to their superior performance compared to traditional lead acid batteries.
What are the Advantages of AGM Batteries?
Compared to conventional wet cell batteries, AGM batteries exhibit superior charge retention and are less prone to sulfation, making them an ideal choice for storing vehicles during off-seasons.
Additionally, AGM batteries offer greater flexibility in mounting orientation since the electrolyte is sealed within the battery, unlike conventional batteries where the free-flowing electrolyte necessitates upright storage to prevent leakage.
Furthermore, the separator that absorbs and holds the electrolyte within AGM batteries enhances its resistance to vibrations, a crucial benefit for vehicles like ATVs that operate on uneven terrains.
In summary, if you are seeking a battery for a seasonal vehicle such as an ATV or snowmobile, an AGM battery is likely the most suitable choice.
Which is better for long-term use?
Compared to standard lead-acid batteries, AGM batteries typically have a longer lifespan. Additionally, due to their low self-discharge rate, AGM batteries also outlast flooded batteries when they are not in use. With proper maintenance, an AGM battery can endure up to 7 years, while a flooded battery typically lasts only 3-5 years.
When is a Conventional Battery Best?
While there are few downsides to opting for an AGM battery, it is crucial to understand the differences between AGM and conventional batteries, whether you plan to replace an existing battery or purchase a new one.
For daily drivers, conventional batteries remain more cost-effective than AGM batteries. If you use your vehicle frequently and require a budget-friendly option, a conventional battery may be the better choice. However, conventional batteries have a higher risk of spills or leaks.
On the other hand, AGM batteries offer a significant advantage for seasonally used vehicles, such as motorcycles in regions with varying weather conditions.
It’s important to note that replacing a conventional battery with an AGM battery or vice versa isn’t as simple as swapping one for the other. If your vehicle originally had a conventional battery, the regulator or rectifier design may not be compatible with an AGM battery, which could cause problems. The same applies if you are replacing an AGM battery with a conventional battery.
Which is better for deep-cycling?
The AGM battery exhibits excellent characteristics such as minimal internal resistance, the ability to discharge high currents as required, and a relatively long service life, particularly when subjected to deep cycling. Unlike flooded lead-acid batteries, AGM batteries are virtually maintenance-free, have high electrical reliability, and are lighter in weight. Traditional lead-acid batteries require a topping charge every six months to avoid sulfation buildup. However, AGM batteries are less susceptible to sulfation and can be stored for longer periods before needing a recharge. These batteries perform well under low-temperature conditions and have low self-discharge rates.
Which is better for high-temperature use?
There are a few factors to consider when choosing a battery for high-temperature use. The first is the self-discharge rate; at higher temperatures, batteries discharge faster. The second is capacity; at higher temperatures, batteries have reduced capacity. And the third is resistance; at higher temperatures, batteries have increased internal resistance and therefore reduced power output.
SLA batteries have lower self-discharge rates and higher capacity than AGM batteries at high temperatures. However, they also have higher internal resistance, which means they may not perform as well as AGM batteries in some applications.
AGM batteries have lower self-discharge rates and higher capacity than SLA batteries at high temperatures. However, they also have higher internal resistance, which means they may not perform as well as SLA batteries in some applications.
So, which is better for high-temperature use? It depends on the application. If power output is most important, then an AGM battery may be the better choice. If long life and low maintenance are most important, then an SLA battery may be the better choice.
Differences between SLA and AGM batteries
When it comes to batteries, there are a few different types on the market. Two of the most popular options are SLA (sealed lead-acid) and AGM (absorbent glass mat) batteries. Both of these battery types have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the difference between them before making a purchase.
SLA batteries are typically less expensive than AGM batteries, but they also require more maintenance. SLA batteries need to be regularly checked for water levels and voltage, and they should be given a full charge every few months to prevent sulfation. AGM batteries, on the other hand, are sealed and require no maintenance other than occasional cleaning. They’re also more resistant to vibration and shock, making them ideal for use in RVs, boats, and other vehicles.
AGM batteries typically last longer than SLA batteries, but they cost more up front. If you’re looking for a battery that requires little to no maintenance and will last for several years, AGM is the way to go. However, if you’re on a budget or don’t mind putting in a bit of extra work to maintain your battery, SLA may be the better option.
Conclusion
Both SLA and AGM batteries are excellent choices depending on your specific needs, so it is important to consider what you will use them for before making a decision. Ultimately, the best battery technology depends on the application – whether you need something light weight, powerful or maintenance-free. SLA batteries offer flexibility in terms of sizing options and can be recharged relatively quickly but may not last as long as AGM batteries. On the other hand, AGM batteries provide more efficiency and longevity than their counterparts but tend to be heavier and require more frequent charging cycles.
