Gel Car Battery- Introduction, Pros, and Cons

Want to learn about a gel car battery? If yes, then you’re in the right place.

What is a gel car battery?

A gel car battery often referred to as a lead cell battery, closely resembles the electrolyte composition of a lead-acid battery, however, with one exception. The electrolyte in a gel car battery involves silica, which creates a gel-like substance, thus giving it the name. The thickened electrolyte indicates that the batteries can be installed in various positions and do not emit any unnecessary fumes. This fundamental principle allows gel batteries to be used in places where there is less or absolutely no ventilation.

A gel battery resembles the working of a lead-acid battery but is regulated with a valve. When the electrolyte in the battery is mixed with silica and sulphuric acid, it creates a relatively stationary substance that involves the capability of powering appliances. The gel mixture allows the battery to utilize the acid and electrolyte in the same way, similar to utilizing the solution in a conventional battery. However, it will not involve added maintenance.

What are the pros and cons of a gel car battery?

A gel battery entails numerous pros since it is virtually maintenance-free and involves no leaks. Furthermore, the advantages of a gel car battery are discussed at length below.

• Maintenance Free- Since the electrolyte is in the form of a gel and not a liquid, these batteries require little to virtually no maintenance to keep the battery working efficiently.

• Easy Installation- You can use gel batteries in practically any location. From well-ventilated areas to enclosed spaces with no air, gel batteries will work effectively anywhere.
  

• No Leaks- Even though lead-acid batteries are enclosed in a plastic encasement, there is still a probability that the liquid will leak, rendering the battery ineffective. On the other hand, gel batteries are also sealed, but the presence of a regulation valve removes the excess pressure. It further indicates that the mixture has nowhere to go between the gel substance and the elimination of extra pressure, thus offering zero leaks and no hassle.
  

• Negligible Risk- When specific damage occurs in a conventional battery, owners face a massive crackdown and the possibility of a hazard. However, gel batteries pose no such peril since nothing will ooze out if the encasement gets damaged.
  

• Vibration Resistant- The biggest peeve of a traditional battery is its susceptibility to extreme vibration and related impacts. On the contrary, gel batteries absorb the impact and vibrations, making them suitable for installing in cars and other four-wheelers.
  

• No Fumes- Because the batteries comprise a gel substance, minimal fumes impact the environment once you use the batteries. Potential applications of the cell will increase since you can install it in areas that do not provide ventilation. Moreover, it is easier to charge the batteries anywhere.
  

• Resistant to Discharge Death- If you are using a lead-acid battery, you might often find yourself cautious of over-discharging the cell. Gel batteries are not that way. They involve deep-cycle technology, which indicates that you can discharge it more, while it still entails the capability to be recharged like new.
  

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When it comes to limitations, they include-

• Requires constant monitoring of amperage and voltage

• Expensive
  

• The electrolyte sensitivity to frost.
  

Are gel batteries better than lead acid?

So, now let's get to the last concern. To better understand whether gel batteries or lead acid batteries are better, below we have compared both batteries in-depth.

When gel batteries came into the industry, they were roughly four times the cost of lead acid batteries. As higher volumes were generated for the gel batteries, they swiftly dampened in price and enhanced in quality. Currently, gel batteries cost roughly thirty percent more than wet lead acid batteries without any headache, maintenance, and charging problems. Consequently, gel batteries are more commonly utilized these days in several applications.

Many people have a common concern – are gel batteries better than lead acid batteries, or what are the key differences between these two batteries?

When it comes to gel batteries advantages over lead acid, they include- sealed, spoil-proof, maintenance-free, very low self-discharge, no gassing, capable of withstanding a broad range of temperatures, capable of withstanding vibration and shock better, no terminal corrosion, and outstanding deep cycle performance.

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When it comes to gel batteries limitations, they include – more expensive or costly than lead acid, sensitive to overcharging.

Now, let's come to lead acid advantages over gel batteries. They include relatively inexpensive as compared to gel batteries, widely accessible, decent size to capacity ratio, and decent deep cycle performance.

When it comes to lead acid limitations, there are many. It includes:

• Need strict maintenance

• Need ventilated rooms to recharge

• Experience terminal corrosion
  

• Need rubber gloves and goggles when you are maintaining it.
  

• Vent substantial quantities on oxygen and hydrogen gases and other toxins
  

• Fastly sulfate if it is left discharged for a period.
  

• Easily damaged in case of over-charged.
  

• Categorized as dangerous goods for transportation.
  

So, considering both the pros and cons of gel batteries and lead acid, now you have got an answer to your question. Isn't it, right? Well, a lead acid battery has significant advantages over gel batteries – cheap cost, the capability to pick the most affordable or expensive branded options, and a broad range of traits. On the other hand, gel batteries are known to have a long service life, better deep discharge resistance, etc.

Last Few Words

That's it. So, here we have covered all you need to know about gel car battery – what it is, pros and cons, and much more. When it comes to choosing a gel battery, all factors such as inrush current, voltage, etc. much match the suggestions of the vehicle manufacturer. Else, there is a great hazard of undercharging that equally damages the battery.