Understanding Battery Terminology: Commonly Used Terms You Should Know Before Buying a Battery

Batteries might seem like a simple topic, but there’s a whole world of terminology to navigate before making a purchase. Don’t let technical jargon leave you feeling lost and confused – read on to understand the most commonly used battery terms.

1. Voltage

Voltage is the measure of electric potential in a battery, and it’s usually listed as V. It tells you how much power the battery can provide to your device or vehicle.

2. Ampere-Hour (Ah)

Ampere-hour, also known as capacity, is the amount of charge a battery can deliver in one hour. It’s often used to describe the energy storage capacity of a battery, and is measured in Ah.

3. Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)

Cold Cranking Amps, or CCA, is a measure of how well a battery can perform in cold weather. It’s the amount of current a battery can deliver at 0 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 seconds while maintaining at least 7.2 volts.

4. Reserve Capacity (RC)

Reserve capacity, or RC, is the number of minutes a battery can deliver a constant current of 25 amps at 80°F before dropping below 10.5 volts.

5. Cycle Life

Cycle life is the number of times a battery can be charged and discharged before it loses its ability to hold a charge. The higher the cycle life, the longer the battery will last.

6. Battery Chemistry

Battery chemistry refers to the type of chemical reaction that produces the battery’s energy. Some common types of battery chemistry include lead-acid, lithium-ion, and nickel-metal hydride.

7. Self-Discharge

Self-discharge is the rate at which a battery loses its charge over time when it’s not being used. It’s usually measured as a percentage per month.

8. Overcharge Protection

Overcharge protection is a safety feature that prevents a battery from being overcharged and damaged. It’s often built into the battery or the device that the battery is used in.

9. Amps

Amps, or amperes, are a measure of electrical current. It tells you how much current a device is drawing from the battery.

10. Terminal

Terminals are the points on a battery where the cables or connectors are attached. They’re usually marked as positive (+) and negative (-) to ensure proper connection.

By understanding these common battery terms, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision when buying a battery. Don’t let technical jargon intimidate you – with a little knowledge, you’ll be an expert in no time!