What Are the Most Popular Applications for SLA Batteries?
- by Joe Weber - updated on 8/10/2023
These days it's hard to go anywhere or do anything without seeing something that uses a sealed lead acid (SLA) battery. They're in our homes, our cars, our offices, our favorite shopping spots and so much more.
What Are Some Popular Uses For SLA Batteries?
Sealed Lead Acid batteries are used in so many things. Here are just a few of the many applications for these batteries.
- Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
- Emergency Lighting
- Security Systems
- Electric Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters
- Recreational Vehicles (RVs)
- Boats
- Medical Equipment
- Kids' Riding Toys
- Small-Scale Solar Power System
Are There Different Types of SLA Batteries?
SLA batteries are available in four types: General Purpose, Deep Cycle, Gel and High-Rate.
General Purpose
- The most versatile
- Reliable for backup & cycling applications
- Great for household use
General Purpose SLA batteries are great for many security systems, sump pumps, emergency backup lighting, riding toys and many more applications.
Deep Cycle
- Long-term power
- Constant power flow for a sustained period of time
Deep Cycle SLA batteries are ideal for applications where you need constant power like wheelchairs and scooters, floor scrubbers, RV home power and fishing boats to power accessories and trolling motors.
Gel
- Long-term power
- It offers the greatest number of cycles
- Ideal for heavy, everyday use
Gel SLA batteries are commonly used in applications that require deep and frequent cycling like solar power systems, wind generation, communication equipment and heavy-use wheelchairs.
High-Rate
- Long-term power
- Constant power flow for a sustained period
High-Rate SLA batteries are often used in server banks, telecommunications equipment and UPS/battery backup units.
How Do I Know Which One To Use?
Selecting the appropriate type of Sealed Lead-Acid (SLA) battery involves considering several factors related to your specific application and requirements. Here are some tips to help you determine which type of SLA battery you need.
Identify Your Application: Determine the purpose of the battery. Is it for backup power in case of outages (e.g., UPS), deep cycling in renewable energy systems, or powering a particular device or equipment?
Calculate Power Requirements: Assess the power demands of your application. Calculate the wattage or current required, as well as the duration the battery needs to provide power.
Determine Discharge Rate: If your application demands high discharge rates, such as in UPS systems or high-power equipment, consider a high-rate SLA battery.
Consider Energy Capacity: For applications requiring extended backup time or continuous power, look for batteries with higher amp-hour (Ah) ratings. Deep-cycle batteries typically have higher Ah capacities compared to standard SLA batteries.
Application Specifics: Some applications, such as solar power systems or electric vehicles, may have specific battery requirements due to their charge and discharge cycles. Ensure that the battery is suitable for the charging method and voltage requirements of your application.
Are There Alternatives to Sealed Lead Acid?
Yes! Lithium has taken the SLA world by storm and is a great alternative for sealed lead acid due to its features and benefits. The X2Power Lithium Deep-Cycle batteries available only at Batteries Plus offer several welcome benefits over lead-acid batteries.
- Lithium batteries are twice as light as lead.
- Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries charge in half the time.
- Lithium batteries have a much longer cycle life, making them more economical in the long run.
Batteries Plus Is Here To Help With Your SLA Needs
If you still need a little help figuring out which sealed lead acid battery you should be using for your device, stop into your local Batteries Plus to have our battery experts guide you in selecting the most appropriate battery for your application
If you'd like to learn more about SLA batteries, read our helpful article "How Does an SLA Battery Work?" to learn all there is to know about sealed lead acid batteries.