Dakota Lithium Blog
Practical guides, real-world advice, and stories to help you get more from your power.
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What is the Best Battery for Cold Weather?
Winters in North Dakota can get really cold. Each winter we see temperatures in the -40F to -20F at our factory in Grand Forks, ND. That's cold enough that you can throw a cup of coffee in the air and it will freeze before hitting the ground. Up here on the great plains the cold weather is unforgiving – high winds, deep snow, long nights. Dakota Lithium was born out of this rugged landscape. We wanted to build a battery to endure harsh conditions and low temperatures for a long time. Here's what we learned: Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries Are the Best Choice for Cold Weather If you are powering your fish finder, trolling motor, RVs, boats, golf cart and electric...
What is the difference between starter batteries and deep cycle batteries?
What is a starter battery? A starter battery, also called a car battery, is designed to provide a large burst of current for a short period of time. This surge of current turns the engine over during the starting process then the alternator takes over. The burst of energy only discharges the battery 1- 3% then is topped off by the alternator. Under normal use your car battery may go through its entire life without ever being drained more than 20 percent of its total capacity. Starter battery = single bust of energy When should I use a starter battery? For starting your car, motorcycle, or other gasoline engine. Since this battery is used for starting the engine only we...
What is the best battery for Solar Panels?
To determine the best battery for your solar panels look for a high round trip efficiency (RTE), and a long cycle life (lifespan), and a flat voltage curve (usable energy). A more efficient battery with a flat voltage curve will allow you to use more of the solar energy generated by your solar panels. A long cycle life will provide the lowest cost per recharge cycle (pro tip: look for a warranty that matches the advertised cycle life - for example, Dakota Lithium provides an 11 year warranty on all batteries). What is the most efficient battery for solar panels? Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries provide the highest Round Trip Efficiency (RTE) for solar / solar grid energy conversion. Lithium...