Why Use Lithium Batteries: Benefits of Lithium Batteries In Your RV, Boat or Golf Cart
Not sure if you want to convert your current battery system to lithium? We’ll help you understand why investing in lithium batteries is one of the best decisions you can make.
In today's fast-paced world, the demand for efficient and reliable energy storage is ever-growing. Whether you are trying to decide whether to convert to lithium batteries in your RV, fishing boat or golf cart, there are lots of reasons why you should consider making the switch.
Lithium batteries have emerged as a popular and versatile choice for various applications, ranging from portable electronics to electric vehicles. But what makes them stand out from other battery types?
You’ve likely heard that lithium ion batteries are expensive. But there are far more benefits to converting to lithium that make the cost a secondary consideration.
In this post, we will delve into the benefits and advantages of lithium batteries, explaining their unique properties and why they have become the go-to choice for many industries and consumers alike.
In this context, we will explore why you should use lithium batteries.
Key Takeaways: Enduro Power Batteries Lithium batteries
- Have high energy density (more “bang for the buck”)
- Have a greater depth of discharge, providing almost 100% usable energy compared to 50-60% with lead acid and AGM
- Are safe to use and install in any orientation with no off-gassing
- Have a long lifespan, with 10+ years of guaranteed performance
- Are lightweight, allowing boats, RVs and golf carts to more efficiently use the power stored in them
- Take up less space, up to 25% less than other competitors
- Are fast charging at 5x faster than lead acid and AGM batteries
- Require no maintenance
- Have no memory effect, meaning they don’t get stuck at certain charge capacities over time
- Provide constant power without voltage sag when large loads are applied
- Have a long shelf life with a low self-discharge rate of 3% (compared to 4-8%)
What is a Lithium Battery?
Lithium batteries are rechargeable energy storage cells that utilize positively charged lithium ions that move between an anode and cathode (and vice versa) via a micro-permeable separator, enabling them to store and deliver a high-voltage charge.
These batteries consist of negative (anode) and positive (cathode) electrodes, a porous separator and an electrolyte. Our Enduro Power Batteries are Grade A prismatic cells with certifications that have minimal internal connections to increase efficiencies.
Pioneering work with lithium batteries began in 1912 under G.N. Lewis, and the first non-rechargeable lithium batteries became commercially available in the early 1970s. Since then, lithium batteries have been increasingly used in a variety of applications due to their numerous advantages.
Some of these advantages include high energy density, enhanced safety, increased usable capacity, extended life, light weight design, rapid charging, minimal maintenance, consistent power output, and long shelf life - we'll get into the details of these advantages shortly.
The Benefits of Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries have become an increasingly popular choice in various applications such as in RVs, fishing boats and golf carts due to their remarkable benefits.
With their unparalleled energy density, depth of discharge, lighter weight and smaller size, they have replaced their traditional lead acid battery counterparts in almost every aspect.
In the following sections, we will explore these benefits in more detail.
High Energy Density
Energy density refers to the amount of energy that can be stored in a given unit of mass or volume. Lithium batteries are known for their high energy density and storage capacity, which exceeds that of flooded lead acid batteries and AGM batteries.
This high energy density is a result of the use of lithium-ion cells in the whole lithium battery pack, making them much more efficient than other types of rechargeable batteries.
High energy density means that lithium batteries can store more energy in a smaller and lighter package, making them ideal for applications where weight and space are critical factors, such as in fishing boats, RVs and golf carts, allowing for efficient operation.
Safety
Safety is a top priority in the design and manufacturing of lithium batteries. These batteries are equipped with an integrated battery management system (BMS) that allows them to charge and operate safely and efficiently, contributing to their overall battery performance.
Lithium batteries are sealed and require little to no maintenance, other than checking the wire connections at times. Thus they are safer than other options because they do not emit gasses that can build up in enclosed spaces and cause safety concerns. They can virtually be installed anywhere and remain safe for the duration of their lifetime.
Enduro Power batteries are 100% safe & reliable. Our Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) design, does not contain rare earth elements (like Cobalt) or heavy metals, is non-toxic, including no lead or acid, is non-corrosive, does not off gas, requires no watering or maintenance, can be placed in any orientation, and unlike other lithium batteries will not explode or catch fire.
More Usable Capacity
Usable capacity is a concept in battery technology that refers to the amount of energy that can be stored in a battery and accessed by the user. Lithium batteries have a significantly higher usable capacity than lead-acid batteries, generally ranging from 95%-99% of the total capacity as opposed to the 50% of lead-acid batteries.
Another way you may have heard of this concept is the idea of the depth of discharge (DoD). The depth of discharge is percentage of battery capacity that you can use without damaging the battery.
Standard Flooded Lead Acid (FLA) batteries have an average DoD of 50%, meaning a 100 Ah FLA battery will only provide 50 amp hours of battery capacity. AGM batteries offer only slightly more DoD at approximately 60%. The same 100 Ah AGM battery will only provide 60 Ah of usable energy before you will need to either power off all draws or recharge the battery.
This higher usable capacity allows lithium batteries to store more energy and provide longer operation times. It creates a situation where you will worry less about your power consumption and spend more time enjoying the activities powered by your lithium batteries.
Read Next: Learn more about what is depth of discharge for batteries.
Long Life
The expected lifespan of a lithium battery can vary depending on factors such as usage, temperature, and charging habits. Some manufacturers claim that lithium batteries consist of a lifespan of 2,000 charging cycles, while others estimate the life of lithium batteries in most consumer products to be between 300 and 500 discharge/charge cycles.
With our Enduro Power Batteries, we are confident you will be enjoying your Enduro Power batteries past 10 years. All Enduro Power batteries come with a 10-year warranty for manufacturers defects.
We have designed our batteries to last 3000-5000 cycles. Even then the battery will still hold 75-80% of its rated capacity. Our founders have been in the battery industry for over a decade and know what it takes to deliver long lasting performance.
While the life span of a lithium battery is mainly impacted by usage, temperature, and charging habits, it still offers a significantly longer life expectancy than most other rechargeable batteries, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
Lightweight
One of the key factors contributing to the lightweight nature of lithium batteries is the use of both lithium metal and carbon in the electrodes, which are much lighter than the materials used in other batteries.
The lightweight characteristic of lithium batteries makes them suitable for applications where weight is a critical consideration, such as in fishing boats, RVs and golf carts.
For example, weighing in at 24.25lbs our 100 Ah Baja Series lithium battery is 20% lighter than other alternatives. Saving weight and space translates into fuel savings on the road or water.
We use best-in-class technology to make sure you have the lightest and most energy dense battery on the market. More detailed specifications can be found on our product detail pages.
Fast Charging
Lithium batteries can be recharged more quickly than lead-acid batteries, making them more convenient to use in various applications.
The charging speed of lithium batteries is influenced by factors such as lithium diffusion within the active materials, overpotentials, and impedance rise from the decrease in active surface area. Modifying the voltage or current rate of lithium batteries can facilitate fast charging, making them even more convenient for use in various applications.
All of our Enduro Power Batteries charge 5 times faster than their flooded lead acid and AGM counterparts.
Fast charging capabilities are particularly essential in industries where rapid energy replenishment is crucial, such as in RVs, fishing boats and golf carts.
Read Next: Why having the right charger is essential for lithium batteries.
Low Maintenance and No Memory Effect
The memory effect is observed in certain rechargeable batteries, such as Flooded Lead Acid and AGM batteries when they are not fully discharged before recharging. This effect can lead to a temporary or permanent decrease in the battery's capacity.
Lithium batteries, on the other hand, are generally accepted to have no memory effect, making them more convenient and hassle-free for users. In addition to the absence of memory effect, lithium batteries are low maintenance, unlike other chemistries.
There is no need for memory cycling or scheduled cycling to extend the battery pack's life, making them an even more attractive option for various applications.
In fact, our Endurance Rated batteries hit their sweet spot when they cycle between 40-80% depth of discharge.
Constant Power
Constant power is a mode of operation in which the voltage is adjusted to maintain a constant output power. This mode is utilized in many loads, such as motor drives and electronic loads with precise controllers.
The high cell voltage of 3.6 volts in lithium-ion batteries facilitates battery pack designs with only one cell, simplifying the overall design and contributing to more efficient power management.
Constant power delivery is especially important in applications where consistent performance is required, such as in performance fishing boats.
Long Shelf Life
The self-discharge rate of lithium batteries is relatively low, approximately 3-5% per month, which contributes to their long shelf life. Compare this to 4-8% for flooded lead acid and AGM batteries, respectively.
This makes them ideal for applications where batteries may be in storage for extended periods of time before being used, such as seasonal use in RVs, fishing boats and golf carts.
You don’t need to trickle charge our Enduro Power lithium battery in storage because it only loses 3% of its capacity each month in storage. Once installed you never have to move the battery again.
In fact you could leave a fully charged lithium battery in storage for up to 26 months without being charged and it will still have power left. This demonstrates the energy density of LiFePO4 technology, but we recommend charging more regularly because you deserve to be out finding adventures.
Read Next: Learn more about how long lithium batteries can last.
Lithium Battery Applications
Aside from the benefits and advantages that make lithium batteries an attractive option for various applications, they are also widely utilized in numerous industries. Some of the most common applications include trolling motors and marine applications, RV applications, and golf cart applications.
In the following sections, we will explore these specific applications and how lithium-ion batteries provide unique advantages in each case.
Trolling Motors and Marine Applications
Lithium batteries are utilized in trolling motors and marine applications to provide power for navigation, propulsion and other onboard systems. They offer several advantages over traditional lead-acid batteries, such as being more efficient, lighter in weight, and providing up to 10 times longer service life.
Additionally, they offer full voltage during discharge and are less likely to require maintenance, making them an attractive option for marine applications.
The efficiency and weight differences between lithium and lead-acid batteries make lithium batteries ideal for trolling motors and marine applications, as they provide more power for the same size and weight, resulting in improved performance and reduced strain on the vessel.
SHOP OUR PROCONNECT SERIES LITHIUM BATTERIES FOR MARINE APPLICATIONS
RV applications
Lithium batteries are employed in recreational vehicle applications to supply power for lighting, heating and other onboard electrical systems. They possess several benefits for RV applications, such as being lightweight, having a fast charging rate, providing a high energy density, having a longer lifespan, and being safe.
Additionally, they can be installed indoors and in any orientation without releasing hazardous fumes.
These benefits make lithium batteries an excellent choice for RV applications, where space, weight, and energy efficiency are crucial factors. The high energy density of lithium-ion polymer allows for more energy storage in a smaller space, while the longer lifespan and safety features provide added convenience and peace of mind for RV owners.
SHOP OUR BAJA SERIES LITHIUM BATTERIES FOR RV APPLICATIONS
Golf Cart Applications
Golf carts are another application where lithium batteries excel. They provide numerous advantages over traditional lead-acid batteries, such as being lighter, having a longer lifespan guaranteed to be over 10 years, and providing improved overall performance.
The lightweight nature of lithium batteries makes them easier to transport and install in golf carts, while their extended lifespan means they will need to be replaced less frequently, resulting in cost savings in the long run and minimizing the amount of waste generated by discarding old batteries.
This makes lithium-ion batteries an ideal choice for golf cart applications, where performance, lightweight, and long-term cost savings are essential considerations.
SHOP OUR SERIES LITHIUM BATTERIES FOR GOLF CART APPLICATIONS
Summary
In conclusion, lithium batteries offer a range of benefits and advantages that make them an attractive option for various industries and applications. Their high energy density, lightweight nature, long life, safety features, fast charging capabilities, low maintenance, constant power delivery and long shelf life set them apart from traditional battery technologies.
As lithium ion cell technology continues to advance, it is likely that even more applications will emerge for lithium-ion batteries, further solidifying their position as a versatile and efficient power storage solution for the modern world.
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