Comment

Comment by Rebecca B on July 13, 2011 at 1:01pm

General info for folks about deep cycle batteries:

• Deep cycle batteries are designed to be discharged down as much as 80% time after time, and have much thicker plates. The major difference between a true deep cycle battery and others is that the plates are SOLID Lead plates - not sponge. This gives less surface area, thus less "instant" power like starting batteries need. Although these an be cycled down to 20% charge, the best lifespan vs cost method is to keep the average cycle at about 50% discharge.

Comment by Brian Thiesing on July 13, 2011 at 12:25pm

Thank you Wayne for the calculator link.  One day when I have a lot of spare time I will compare the calculated time to the real time.  Appreciate the help!

Comment by Averan on July 13, 2011 at 11:26am

Since you already have them installed, there's one way to find out for sure....;)

Comment by Wayne on July 12, 2011 at 6:01pm

 Here is an online calculator for finding the answer.

 

Comment by Brian Thiesing on July 12, 2011 at 4:46pm

do you know how to calculate accurately how long the batteries will last when not being charged?

Comment by Brian Thiesing on July 12, 2011 at 4:42pm

yes, I have a bank of 4 deep cycle 12v batteries.

Comment by Averan on July 12, 2011 at 4:38pm

so that's about 1/3rd the generating capacity of your panels.  are you storing the rest in batteries?

Comment by Brian Thiesing on July 12, 2011 at 4:35pm

I have one supreme classic general purpose utility pump model 3, 350gph, 37 watts used for water return from the troughs to fish tank.  3 coralife luft pumps, high pressure aquarium air pumps 7.0 p.s.i., 5 watts each.

Comment by Averan on July 12, 2011 at 2:11pm

what are the 4 pumps?  What is each for and what is the make/model/wattage?  Just curious, as I love the idea of going solar.  Thanks!