Battery Life Equation:
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The battery life calculation estimates how long a 12V 150Ah battery will last under a specific load. It's essential for planning power systems, especially in off-grid, RV, marine, and backup power applications.
The calculator uses the battery life equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation converts amp-hours to watt-hours (Ah × V = Wh) then divides by load power to get runtime in hours.
Details: Accurate battery life estimation is crucial for designing reliable power systems, preventing unexpected power loss, and properly sizing battery banks for your needs.
Tips: Enter the total power consumption of all devices that will be running on the battery. For multiple devices, sum their wattages. The load power must be greater than 0.
Q1: Is this calculation accurate for real-world use?
A: This provides theoretical maximum. Real-world factors like battery age, temperature, and inefficiencies typically reduce actual runtime by 10-30%.
Q2: What's the difference between Ah and Wh?
A: Amp-hours (Ah) measure charge capacity, while watt-hours (Wh) measure energy capacity. Wh = Ah × V.
Q3: How does battery type affect the calculation?
A: Lithium batteries can typically use 80-90% of capacity, while lead-acid should only use 50% for long life.
Q4: Should I consider inverter efficiency?
A: Yes, if using an inverter, divide the load power by inverter efficiency (typically 0.85-0.95) for AC loads.
Q5: How can I extend my battery life?
A: Reduce load power, maintain proper charging, avoid deep discharges, and keep batteries at moderate temperatures.