Discharging batteries is entirely a function of your particular application. However, below is list of helpful items:
- Shallow discharges will result in a longer battery life.
- 50% (or less) discharges are recommended.
- 80% discharge is the maximum safe discharge.
- Do not fully discharge flooded batteries (80% or more). This will damage (or kill) the battery.
- Many experts recommend operating batteries only between the 50% to 85% of full charge range. A periodic equalization charge is a must when using this practice.
- Do not leave batteries deeply discharged for any length of time.
- lead acid batteries do not develop a memory and need not be fully discharged before recharging.
- Batteries should be charged after each period of use.
- Batteries that charge up but cannot support a load are most likely bad and should be tested. Refer to the Testing section for proper procedure.
% Discharged
100
80
60
40
20
0
0
20
40
60
80
100
% Charged