Thomas & Betts 15D - Manual (Page 11)

Part No. 90-0123-00
Libertycombi.p65 10/26/98
11
BATTERIES
BATTERY TYPES
Use only deep-cycle batteries with your
Freedom Inverter/Charger. These fall into three
broad categories: wet cell, gel cell and
Advanced AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat)
batteries.
Wet Cell Batteries
True deep-cycle wet cell batteries are
characterized by relatively thick internal plates
that are alloyed with antimony.
Common 12 volt marine/RV deep-cycle
batteries are acceptable. Golf cart
batteries perform well and may have a
longer life. These 6 volt batteries must be
used in series connected in pairs. High
quality deep-cycle batteries offer good
performance and are available in a wide
variety of sizes.
Wet cell batteries will give off gas as a
natural result of charging and will experience
some water loss. It is very important that the
electrolyte level be checked frequently and
topped off with distilled water when necessary.
Follow the battery manufacturer’s
recommendations for maintenance.
Never allow the top of the battery plates to
be exposed to air, as contamination of the cell
will result. Keep the top of batteries clean.
Always provide adequate ventilation for the
battery storage compartment.
Do not use ordinary car batteries or
engine starting batteries with your inverter/
charger. Beware of any battery that is rated in
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). This is a rating
which applies only to engine starting batteries.
In general, most wet cell batteries that are
described as hybrid type batteries, suitable for
either engine starting or deep-cycle
applications, are a compromise and will have
limited life if deeply discharged.