Battery

Solar batteries are really deep cycle batteries that provide energy storage for solar, wind and other renewable energy systems.  Different from a car battery, a solar battery is capable of surviving prolonged, repeated and deep discharges which are typical in renewable energy systems that are "off grid" (disconnected from the electric utilty company).

Solar Batteries (Deep Cycle Batteries) are a key component in a stand-alone renewable energy system.  If you are installing a solar panel system that will be tied to your utility grid, you will still need deep cycle batteries if you are trying to use power in the event of an outage.  Without deep cycle batteries, you can only use power at the time you produce it. (i.e. You will not have power when the sun isn't out if you don't have batteries in your solar electric system.)  In renewable energy systems, Deep Cycle Batteries provide the energy storage for your system.  Unlike your car battery, deep cycle batteries that are used in renewable energy applications are meant to be discharged and recharged (cycled) repeatedly.  To maintain healthy batteries and prolong battery life, most manufacturers suggest limiting the depth of discharge to about 20%. (That means the deep cycle batteries will be at 80% capacity or better.)  At the very least, do not allow the batteries to be discharged below 50% Depth of Discharge (DOD).  Often an Inverter will have a Low Voltage Disconnect feature that will disconnect loads at a given set point.  Low voltage alarms can provide audible warnings as well.  Ammeters, Voltmeters, Battery Monitors can help better maintain deep cycle battery health and provide statistics about the overall health of the system.

MOTOLITE SOLAR MASTER:

100AH - PHP 8,500.00

200AH - PHP 11,000.00

When selecting solar batteries (deep cycle), you'll have the option to use flooded lead acid (FLA) batteries or sealed batteries (AGM or Gel cell).  Keep in mind that FLA batteries require a bit of maintenance, however, they generally last longer than their sealed counterparts. Water Miser Vent cap - Reduces Battery Watering can reduce the frequency that the deep cycle batteries need watering.  You'll need one vent cap for each 2 V cell.  Desulfater are another good low cost investment that can help prevent sulfation and boost the performance of the batteries.  Flooded Lead Acid batteries can build up sulfate crystals on their lead plates over time. 

Sealed deep cycle batteries may be a bit heavier and therefore cost a bit more to ship.  Deep cycle batteries come in many sizes: from sealed batteries that are less than 10 pounds to flooded lead acid batteries that weigh over 200 pounds each!  They can be small (and fit in a backpack) or large (2'x 2'x 1') and anywhere in between.  Generally the size and weight correspond with amp hours of storage.  So if you need a lot of electrical storage, be sure that you have the appropriate space to house the batteries.