Batteries are one of the staple components found in solar energy systems and just about all of the technology we use daily. Here at Earthtech Products we are constantly fielding questions and educating our customer base to ensure for proper battery maintenance and use. Today we will go though and answer a few of the most common questions our customer service and tech support team see.
How do Batteries Produce Power?
Batteries operate by creating a small contained chemical reaction inside of the battery housing. This housing is made up of an Anode (-), Cathode (+) and the Electrolyte. The chemical reaction inside of the battery causes a build up of electrons at the Anode. Once the circuit is closed, the electrons will be able to reach the cathode, thus creating power.
What are Amp Hours?
An Amp Hour is the rating used to inform consumers about how much amperage a battery can provide for one hour. The most common example of this is displayed in mAh (milliamp hour) on smart devices such as phones and tablets.
Do Cold and Hot Temperatures Have an Effect on my Batteries?
Yes. Batteries operate most effectively at room temperature. As the temperature drops, both battery charging efficiency and storage capacity drops. This phenomenon will have adverse effects based on the type of battery. Certain batteries perform better in extreme weather conditions.
What Type of Lifespan can I Expect from my Batteries?
The lifespan of a battery will depend on both the battery type and proper use/maintenance practices. The more you maintain a battery and keep it charged, the longer it will last.
What does Cold Cranking Amps Mean (CCA)?
The CCA rating refers to the number of amps a battery can output for 30 seconds while stored in a cold environment (0 Degrees F / -18 Degrees C). This bit of information is typically helpful when choosing a vehicle battery when located in a region that commonly sees extreme weather conditions.
With battery technology being such an important part of life, it is important to stay educated on the topic. Not only will this help you get the most out of your tech purchases; it will ensure you have usable emergency-based technology when you need it most. If you would like your question featured in the next Blog post be sure to comment below. As always, we are just a phone call away (877-548-3387) and are happy to offer our expertise on all of your Battery needs!