Frequently Asked Questions

Aussie Batteries FAQ

Aussie Batteries is one of Australia's largest AGM Deep Cycle battery suppliers and we have decades of experience in battery and solar setups. We pride ourselves on providing expert advice, excellent customer service and the best quality products for Aussie adventures. Our team are always willing to help customers by answering any questions they might have about our battery products or customer service. Below is a list of frequently asked questions or you can always phone our team FREE-CALL 1800 853 315 for updated information or expert advice. Shop Online Today -Happy Camping Australia !

CONTACT OUR 12 VOLT & DEEP CYCLE BATTERY EXPERTS ON 1800 853 315  or EMAIL 

 When Will My Order Arrive ?Deep Cycle Battery FAQ

Aussie Batteries will process and dispatch orders on the same day if possible, or on the next working day if your order is later in the day (or on Sunday/Public Holiday). - There are a few exceptions (e.g. some very large batteries or complex orders). All customers will receive an automated message with a Tracking Number, or you can call our team FREE-CALL 1800 853 315 for updated order information.

How Much is Delivery to my Area ?Deep Cycle Battery FAQ

Delivery is FREE to most locations Australia Wide. Enter your postcode and delivery location into the checkout window, and an option comes up to give you estimated shipping costs. If Aussie Batteries cannot deliver products free to your site, all available delivery methods and prices are displayed in the checkout. They are based on the weight and delivery postcode of your order.

  • HOT TIP** for delivery that is not FREE - why not check if a nearby location (say closer in town - a mates place?) has free delivery.
  • Most of the time, we have to apply the delivery cost because of the freight carriers in your area. So you may find if you have a mate in town or more central city that you can get to then you can still get your order delivered for free!

 

Can I Pick My Order Up In-Store ?Deep Cycle Battery FAQ

Yes, you can! To keep our battery prices as low as possible all our orders are dispatched directly to the purchaser. However, we do offer in-store pickup from our Sunshine Coast QLD dispatch centre call our team on FREE-CALL 1800 853 315 or lookup our location online. HOT TIP** for delivery that is not FREE - why not check if a nearby area (say closer in town - a mates place?) has free delivery. Most of the time, we have to apply the delivery cost because of the freight carriers in your area. So you may find if you have a mate in town or more central city that you can quickly get to then you can still get your order delivered for free!

+ What is the difference between the Giant 140AH and Eclipse 130AH Batteries?

There is no difference in terms of the batteries constructed quality. The main difference is the size (10 extra AH) when you buy the Giant 140AH (this is the most popular size). The Eclipse 130AH has a built in volt-meter and longer warranty period.

+ Where Will My Battery Products Be Sent From ?

Our batteries and solar products are sent directly from our dispatch centre in Queensland, Australia. Need help or more information? Call our team. Aussie Batteries aim to process and dispatch orders on the same day, or the next working day if your order is later in the day (or on Sunday/Public Holiday). - There are a few exceptions (e.g. some huge batteries or multiple orders). All customers will receive an automated message with a Tracking Number, or you can call our team FREE-CALL 1800 853 315 for updated order information.

+ I've seen cheaper batteries on eBay, why would I buy yours?

We believe that 99.99% of batteries on marketplaces like eBay and Amazon are mislabelled to gain a competitive edge. In addition to mislabelling batteries, low-quality cells and poor construction are often used; it's the only way marketplace sellers on eBay can reduce the price and make a profit. Aussie Batteries exists as an alternative to these inferior battery products. We provide the best balance of price and quality and excellent customer service - we also stand by our battery products and offer superior warranties! We built this business for the Aussie customer who wants quality battery products that have an excellent long-tested reputation in Australia. As a company, we are willing to stand by the quality of our products and believe our real-life customer reviews say it all! Need help? Call our team on FREE-CALL 1800 853 315

+ I am having trouble with my order how do I get help ?

So sorry to hear that you are experiencing a problem! Aussie Batteries 100% want to help you get everything sorted. So please contact us immediately on FREE-CALL 1800 853 315 - After hours? Please be assured that the next working business day we should be able to rectify your issue. If it is a courier delivery on the weekend, you are best to contact the couriers directly via the tracking data and contact information that you will have received via email.

+ What is the difference between automotive and deep cycle batteries?

Automotive batteries will generally fail after 30-150 deep cycles if you use them for deep cycled applications, while they may last for thousands of cycles in normal starting use (2-5% discharge). On the other hand Deep cycle batteries are specifically designed to be discharged down as much as 80% time after time and have much thicker plates.The major difference between a true deep cycle battery and others is that the plates are SOLID Lead plates - not sponge. This gives less surface area, thus less "instant" power like starting batteries need.

+ Can I exchange my order instead of returning it?

Yes ! No problem! However, please get on it quickly so that we have not already dispatched your original order if you FREE-CALL 1800 853 315 we will quickly be able to help you rectify any order issues. If it is a weekend, please don't stress! As long as you call us ASAP Monday morning we can quickly and easily rectify any issues with your order.

+ What if I make a mistake and order the wrong battery?

No problems. We will arrange to swap your battery to the correct item. A service fee may apply, if you already had the battery delivered – simply contact us immediately on FREE-CALL 1800 853 315 and our team will sort you out!

+ Can I arrange a time for a battery delivery?

Of course! We will work with you to make sure your battery is delivered quickly, safely and efficiently. Speak to one of our friendly staff members. Just let us know any special requirements and we will do everything we can to meet your needs. Simply contact us on FREE-CALL 1800 853 315 and our team will sort you out!

+ What is my warranty on the batteries?

All Aussie Batteries products carry a nationwide manufacturer fault warranty and should you have any warranty related concerns with your battery you can contact us for an immediate response CALL 1800 853 315. Wherever you may travel to in Australia an Aussie Batteries warranty will move with you! You can read all the specifics on our superior 5 & 7 YEAR Pro-Rata Warranty offer in our battery warranty section available below on our website under the customer care section in the websites footer menu.

+ Do 'maintenance free' batteries still require servicing?

Maintenance free batteries are designed to satisfy the 'fit and forget' mentality of today's users - they provide reliable power without the need to keep an eye on electrolyte levels. However, this doesn't mean that maintenance free batteries won't benefit from regular servicing. Following the maintenance advice listed below is a great way to extend the life of your maintenance free battery. Ensure the top of the battery is clean, and that the terminals are free of corrosion. Check the voltage with a voltmeter. 12.7 to 12.8v is considered to be fully charged (car battery). If your battery is below 12.5 volts, recharge immediately using a suitable smart battery charger. For maintainable batteries, remove the plugs and ensure that the electrolyte is covering the battery plates. Top up with distilled water if required. For maintenance free AGM type batteries, we recommend charging batteries with an appropriate battery charger every 3 months to maintain their peak performance.

+ Can I use a car battery to power equipment like portable fridges?

The simple answer NO! Car batteries are designed to provide short, sharp bursts of power to start an engine, followed by a full recharge via the vehicle's charging system. Draining a car battery with a load from an external piece of 12 volt equipment (such as a portable fridge) could potentially damage the battery, and will reduce the overall life of the battery over time. AGM Batteries are the most suitable choice for these applications. Aussie Batteries are the experts in 12V Deep Cycle Batteries and Power for camping applications. Got questions about getting the best 12V Power for your setup ? Simply contact us on FREE-CALL 1800 853 315 and our team will sort you out!

 + What is the difference between Wet Cell, AGM and Gel Batteries?

Wet cell batteries come in two types; serviceable and maintenance-free. Both are filled with electrolyte and are the same. Usable batteries have removable caps so the electrolyte can and should be checked regularly, they are easier to test as you can check the specific gravity with a hydrometer of every cell. Maintenance-free batteries are sealed for life, and the water level does not need to be maintained, they are usually calcium batteries. They also have a built-in hydrometer giving some indication of the charge in one cell. AGM and Gel batteries are both types of Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA). AGM batteries are similar to wet batteries, except the electrolyte is being held in the glass mats, as opposed to freely flooding the plates. A gel batteries electrolyte is gel like and immobile. There is often common confusion regarding AGM batteries because different manufactures call them by different names they are also known as “dry cell”, “sealed lead acid” and “non spillable”, usually when consumers ask for a gel cell they most often mean AGM Batteries. Gel cells are still being sold, but AGM batteries are replacing them in most 12 Volt applications. When being recharged, AGM and Gel cell batteries require different voltages than conventional batteries. If using the batteries in a deep cycle situation, you must have a charger designed for AGM or Gel batteries. For a one-off recharge, a standard charger will do the job, but the battery must not overheat, or you void your warranty so it is best to use a proper battery charger that is designed for AGM and or Gel Battery types.

 + How is a deep cycle battery different from a car (starter) battery?

There are two types of lead-acid batteries Starter (engine cranking) and Deep Cycle (Caravans, dual batteries). The starter battery is designed to deliver quick bursts of energy so generally, has more plates to have a larger surface area that provides a high electric current for a short time. The plates are thinner and have different material composition. The deep cycle battery has less instant energy but more exceptional long term energy delivery. Deep cycle batteries have thicker plates and can survive a number of discharge cycles. We do not recommend using starter batteries for deep cycle applications because the plates are more prone to warping and shedding active material, this will reduce the life of the battery or possibly have a catastrophic failure i.e. a sudden death due to a shorted cell.

+  Can I start my engine with a deep cycle battery?

Yes in a desperate situation you can, however, it is not recommended to put a deep cycle in a predominantly starting application, and an allowance should be made for their lower cranking amps. Deep cycle batteries don’t have the burst of energy like a starter battery, so for the same size battery, an AGM will not provide as many cranking amps as a regular starter battery.

+ Can I Add Your Battery to Another Brand or Different Size Battery ?

Yes, different brands can be used together as long as they use the same voltage and the specifications match the original battery. A major difference in capacity (AH) can damage your unit. Always, check your battery specifications for minimum and maximum power requirements for the best results simply - FREE-CALL our Aussie Deep Cycle Battery specialists today on 1800 853 315 they will provide deep cycle power advice and can talk you through your deep cycle battery setup and provide an Obligation Free Quote .

 + Battery Safety and Maintenance ?

 

  • Think safety first; wear safety goggles and gloves when charging batteries.
  • Do regular inspection and maintenance to keep your battery in top condition.
  • Recharge batteries immediately after discharge or at least the same day.
  • Fully charge your battery before it goes into storage.
  • If possible use batteries of identical make, model and AH size.
  • Make sure the battery cable is not undersized for the battery system.
  • Got questions about getting the best 12V Power for your setup ? Simply contact us on FREE-CALL 1800 853 315 and our team will sort you out!

+ My Question is Not Here?

No problem! We can answer any questions you have please FREE-CALL 1800 853 315 and our expert team will be able to help you! Shop Online or Get Prices and Specifications : www.aussiebatteries.com.au

Aussie Batteries : Deep Cycle Battery Frequently Asked Questions

 FREECALL our Aussie Deep Cycle Battery specialists today on 1800 853 315 they will provide deep cycle power advice and can talk you through your deep cycle battery setup and provide an Obligation Free Quote 

What is a "Flooded Lead Acid" deep cycle battery
Flooded lead acid (wet cell) batteries are one of the most common types of battery for deep cycle applications. The major difference between the wet type of battery and the sealed kind is that the end user is able to replace water lost through gassing via the vent caps in the top of the battery. The flooded battery has been around for a very long time but remains popular because it has a good balance between price and performance. A gel or AGM cell battery is generally somewhere around twice the price per amp hour that you would find in a flooded battery. Flooded batteries do require a lot more maintenance than their sealed lead acid counterparts because the batteries are not recombinant the water is lost through the top of the vent caps while charging. Replacing this lost water can sometimes be an onerous task, but it is a necessary one to get the most out of your battery.

What is a "Sealed Lead Acid" Deep Cycle Battery (VRLA's)
Sealed Lead Acid batteries are often referred to as being "maintenance free" or valve regulated. In a sealed lead acid battery the unit is sealed, meaning that water loss is kept to a bare minimum and also that you needn't put any water into the battery. Most of the sealed VRLA batteries are recombinant which essentially means that the water lost through the venting of hydrogen and oxygen in a flooded battery is the most common types of Sealed Lead Acid or SLA batteries that we carry are the AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries; another is the GEL type of battery.

AGM batteries have a very fine Boron-Silicate glass mat in between the plates inside the battery. The mats are about 95% filled up with electrolytes rather than completely saturated. The considerable advantage of this type of battery is that they can be operated in almost any orientation and will even function underwater. They will also never leak, even if punctured.

GEL batteries have the electrolyte stored in a gel form; this also won't spill out even if the batteries are broken and also prevents the stratification that other battery types can have. Gel cells, however, do have some limitations; they take a slower charge than a comparable sized AGM battery. If they are overcharged voids can form in the gel which permanently reduces the battery capacity.

For deep cycle applications however the Sealed Lead Acid type of battery can be a great deal more expensive than a comparable Flooded Lead Acid battery. However, there are times when a sealed battery will better meet your needs than a flooded battery would. Particularly marine applications where stability isn't always a given, and ventilated spaces are hard to come by are often well tailored to a sealed lead acid battery. One other advantage that AGM and Gel batteries have over flooded types is the low self discharge rate. Where a Flooded battery will lose about 13% of its charge in a month, a Gel or AGM will lose 1% -3%.

What are the differences between a starting and deep cycle battery?
Generally speaking, there are two different types of lead acid batteries, Starting and Deep Cycle. If a starting battery is routinely deep cycled (discharged below 20%-50% of max capacity), it will generally fail after 30-150 cycles. The same starting battery will last for thousands of cycles if it is just used normally (2% - 5% discharge).

Starting batteries are generally designed to start some form of an internal combustion engine (car, truck, boat, etc). In a starting battery, you will find more lead plates, thinner and often made of a lead "sponge" similar looking to a foam sponge. This sort of arrangement means that the plates have much more surface area in the solution than a Deep Cycle battery and allow them to draw larger currents much quicker than a Deep Cycle battery.
Deep cycle battery, on the other hand, have much thicker plates and, they are solid, not sponge. These thicker plates have less surface area and thus less of the instant power that a starting battery needs. They are designed to be discharged down to 20% of their maximum charge repetitively. The thicker lead plates allow for this as they are much sturdier than their sponge counterparts.
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) is an indicator of the amount of current a battery can deliver for 30 seconds at zero degrees Fahrenheit without dropping below a specified cutoff voltage (normally 10.5 volts). The cranking amps a battery can produce changes with temperature. The warmer it is the more Cranking Amps a battery will produce.
You can use a Deep Cycle battery as a starting battery provided that you take into account the lower CCA of a Deep Cycle battery. As a rule of thumb, it's a good idea to upsize the battery by about 20% to deliver the same amount of cranking amps from a deep cycle battery. Also, the self discharge rate of Sealed batteries is a lot less than flooded lead acid types.

How long will my battery last?
How long a battery will last depends hugely upon the way it is used and how well the battery is maintained. Both overcharging and undercharging will have serious adverse effects on the lifespan of a deep cycle battery. In particular, you can seriously shorten the lifespan of a battery if it is used in a deep cycle application that it was not designed for. An example of this would if you were to use an automotive starting battery as a deep cycle battery.

Q. Why has my  battery gone flat?

There can be many reasons why a battery has gone flat - here are the most common causes:

  • Undercharging - This is the most common cause of a flat battery. Modern vehicle charging systems are designed to reduce CO2 emissions and improve fuel economy by increasing battery usage, while at the same time not providing sufficient charge to fully recharge the battery. A flat battery may also be a result of a fault in the vehicle's charging system.
  • Human Error - None of us is perfect. Leaving the headlights or interior lights on, or not closing the boot properly can all potentially flatten a vehicle's battery overnight.
  • Parasitic drain - This is caused by components in the vehicle which continue to operate after the engine has been turned off. The most common offenders are dashcams, alarm systems, or electronic rust prevention systems. These items can gradually wear a battery down over time.
  • Driving habits - If a vehicle is driven on a lot of short trips, the battery may not receive enough charge to recover the energy lost cranking the engine at the start of the journey. Lead-acid batteries also lose power gradually over time when not in use, so batteries in vehicles which are rarely driven will eventually end up going flat.
  • Old battery - Old batteries are simply not as good at holding their charge - so if a vehicle consistently won't start, the battery may have reached the end of it's life. Lead-acid batteries only last 42 months on average, so if a battery is beyond this age, it is on borrowed time.

If you've recently experienced a flat battery, it is essential to have an expert investigate whether any problems exist with the vehicle's charging system before a new battery is fitted.

Need Expert Battery Advice? FREECALL our Deep Cycle Battery specialists today on 1800 853 315 they will provide deep cycle power advice and can talk you through your deep cycle battery setup or can provide an Obligation Free Quote - SHOP OUR BATTERIES ONLINE!