C Battery vs. D Battery: The Ultimate Guide
C batteries (or C-cell batteries) and D batteries (or D-cell batteries) are cylindrical batteries manufactured as both non-rechargeable and rechargeable batteries and are commonly used in toys, flashlights, remote controllers, power tools, and many other devices and gadgets.
C batteries and D batteries are very similar in appearance, but they do differ in size, capacity, and other features, making many people ask themselves what the actual difference between C and D batteries is and if they are interchangeable.
Updated: March 24, 2023.
D Cell Battery - Replacements and Equivalents
D cell battery is a cylindrical battery introduced in 1898 and used in a variety of high-drain applications, including flashlights, toys, radio receivers and transmitters, medical devices, security systems, etc.
The most common label for this battery is 'D-cell', but other labels are used as well, like 'flashlight battery', MN1300, MX1300, LR20, R20, 13A, 13D, Type 373, BA-30, etc.
Updated: March 24, 2023.
Wire Gauge Charts: AWG to mm2 Conversion Charts and Wire Sizes
With various standards around, it is important to know how to convert proper cable sizes from one standard to another.
Also, voltage drop and power losses depend on the cable length, thickness, and current flowing through the cable.
Updated: March 21, 2023.
How Long Does It Take For Water To Boil?
In order to boil water, one has to increase the temperature of water to its boiling temperature at normal atmospheric pressure, and this requires energy.
The most common ways of boiling water include heating it on the stove, in the microwave, or in the electric kettle. There are other ways of boiling the water, for example, in the electric oven, but they are rarely used.
Updated: March 17, 2023.
GENMAX GM2800iAE Portable Inverter Generator
GENMAX GM2800iAE Portable Inverter Generator features a well-balanced design, offering a robust and reliable power generator with several interesting features at an acceptable price.
GENMAX GM2800iAE is a gasoline-only powered unit that can be used in various off-the-grid situations, from camping to emergencies and residential use.
Published: March 15, 2023.
How To Charge A Boat Battery On The Water: The Complete Guide
While charging the battery in port should not be a problem, charging battery, or more often, batteries, on the water for many skippers can be a problem for many reasons.
Having discharged battery can spoil any fishing, leisure, or similar boat trip. However, boat batteries can be easily charged using several methods, and with some care, they can be kept fully or almost fully charged most of the time.
Published: March 13, 2023.
Group 47 (H5, L2, 55L2) Batteries - Dimensions, Features, and Recommendations
Group 47 (H5, L2, 55L2) batteries are medium size batteries, mostly used in automotive and light industrial applications as cranking or dual-purpose batteries for starting mid-range diesel and gas engines and for powering various electric and electronic devices while the main engine(s) are turned off.
Most BCI Group 47 (H5, L2, 55L2) batteries are designed as spill-proof, maintenance-free AGM batteries, but there are also other models on the market as well.
Updated: March 13, 2023.
Fluke 107 AC/DC Handheld Digital Multimeter
Fluke 107 AC/DC Handheld Digital Multimeter is a very simple-to-use digital multimeter used for measuring AC and DC Amps and Volts, resistance, frequency, capacitance, continuity/diode test, and duty cycle.
Also, Fluke 107 AC/DC Handheld Digital Multimeter is a rather compact unit that can be kept in any larger pocket and easily carried in a backpack or similar.
Published: March 13, 2023.
CR-P2, BR-P2, 5024LC, 223A, CR17-33 Battery Equivalents and Replacements
CR-P2, BR-P2, 5024LC, 223A, and CR17-33 batteries are very popular non-rechargeable lithium batteries, commonly used in photo and film cameras, medical systems, security systems, standby devices, and other applications where the reliable and strong source of energy is required, even after a long time of being stored away.
CR-P2, BR-P2, 5024LC, 223A, and CR17-33 are made by practically all the most reputable battery brands and can be easily found at most hardware and online shops. But, since manufacturers use several, often non-standardized labels, to describe these batteries, some confusion may arise ...
Updated: March 13, 2023.
Lithium CR2025, DL2025, E-CR2025, SB-T14, 5003LC, BR2025, LiR2025 Battery Equivalents
Lithium CR2025 is a very popular lithium 3.0 V non-rechargeable battery, often used in car remote keys, watches, medical equipment, calculators, remote control devices, keychain LED lights, and other small electronic devices. Due to its very long shelf life and stable voltage, CR2025 is often used as a memory battery in computers, cameras, digital watches, and other electronic devices.
Thanks to its high demand, many manufacturers offer these batteries with various labels, creating slight confusion regarding CR2025 battery equivalents and replacements. Often CR2025 batteries are labeled as CR2025, DL2025, E-CR2025, SB-T14, 5003LC, BR2025, LiR2025 etc.
Updated: March 11, 2023.
Lithium CR2016, BR2016, LiR2016, DL2016, ECR2016, E-CR2016, SB-T11, 5000LC Battery Equivalents, and Replacements
Lithium CR2016, BR2016, LiR2016, DL2016, ECR2016, E-CR2016, SB-T11, 5000LC, etc. battery is lithium 3.0 volts non-rechargeable button/coin cell.
It is a very popular, low-profile battery commonly used in digital watches, credit-card size devices, remote controls, calculators, thermometers, etc. Since practically all reputable battery brands manufacture these batteries, getting a new one shouldn't be a problem. However, it is good to know a few additional things about these batteries ...
Updated: March 10, 2023.
Lithium CR1616, DL1616, BR1616, ECR1616, 280-209, GPCR1616, LiR1616, KCR1616, 5021LC 3V Battery Equivalents and Replacements
Lithium CR1616 is a very popular 3.0 volts lithium primary (non-rechargeable) battery, often used in car remote keys, wrist watches, TV remotes, medical equipment, calculators, digital scales, and other small electronic devices.
Due to its very long shelf life and stable voltage, CR1616 is often used as a memory battery in computers, cameras, game controllers, and other electronic devices.
Updated: March 7, 2023.
Group 95R (H9/L6) Battery: The Complete Guide
Group 95R (H9/L6) batteries are very popular automotive batteries typically used in cars like SUVs, sedans, pickups, etc.
Thanks to their size, capacity, and ability to crank large internal combustion engines, group 95R (H9/L6) batteries are also used as light industrial starting/dual-purpose batteries and as needed, for example, in emergencies, as backup batteries, in medical and security systems, etc. But, group 95R (H9/L6) batteries are most commonly used as automotive batteries.
Published: March 6, 2023.
Do Electric Bikes Have Weight Limits And How Much?
Electric bikes are used for everyday commuting, off-road adventures, leisure riding, and in every possible situation where ordinary bikes were exclusively used just a few years ago.
Rider weight or total load weight is a hot topic among electric bike users - does it affect the electric bike's performances and does the increased weight increase the stress on the electric bike's components?
Published: February 28, 2023.
How Long Do Marine Batteries Last? Tips and Tricks How To Extend Their Life
Marine batteries range from small lead-acid batteries designed for starting small outboard gasoline engines to large cranking battery banks intended for cranking large diesel engines and large deep-cycle battery banks intended for powering all sorts of loads while the main engine (or engines) are turned off.
As such, marine batteries are one of the most important parts of any boat or yacht, often underappreciated until they show signs of impending failure. Thus, many people wonder how long marine batteries last and how they can extend their lifetime.
Published: February 23, 2023.
9-volt, E battery, PP3, 6LR61, 6F22, 1604A, 1604D, MN1604 Battery Equivalents and Replacements
9-volt, E or PP3 battery is a very popular 9V rectangular battery often used in portable radios, cameras, walkie-talkies, smoke alarms, alarm clocks, and other applications that require slightly larger voltage from a single battery.
9V batteries can be both non-rechargeable or rechargeable batteries, featuring different chemistries.
Updated: February 22, 2023.
A23, 8LR932, 1811A, V23GA, MN21, 8LR23, A23S Battery Equivalents and Replacements
The A23 battery is a non-rechargeable alkaline cylindrical cell battery often used in small electronic devices requiring higher voltage, like home security systems, garage door openers, Bluetooth headsets, key-less vehicle entry systems, video games controllers, cameras, and other similar devices and electronic gadgets.
The A23 battery is manufactured by most battery brands and finding a replacement battery shouldn't be a problem. But, like many similar batteries, the A23 battery comes with a broad set of labels, often used by just one manufacturer.
Updated: February 20, 2023.
1/2 AA Battery vs. 14250 Battery
1/2 AA and 14250 batteries are very popular small, cylindrical batteries commonly used in electronic meters, security systems, medical equipment, baby movement monitors, dog collars, compact EDC flashlights, etc.
1/2 AA and 14250 batteries are very similar batteries, and their labels are often used interchangeably. 1/2 AA and 14250 batteries share practically the same dimensions, but they differ in exact battery chemistry and hence the battery's characteristics and performances.
Updated: February 17, 2023.
How To Properly Charge An Electric Bike
Electric bikes depend on the energy stored in their onboard batteries for Pedal-Assist and Full-Electric ride modes.
When the battery is discharged, one has to recharge it again. However, charging high-capacity lithium-ion batteries is not just plug-and-play since one has to take into account many little details.
Published: February 17, 2023.
Group 24 Batteries - Dimensions, Features, and Recommendations
BCI Group 24 batteries are mostly general-purpose batteries commonly found in large UPS systems, medical and security systems, wheelchairs, in vehicles, industrial applications, etc. They are rarely used as starting/cranking batteries - more commonly, they are used in deep cycle standby/float applications.
These mid-size batteries feature several subgroups, differing slightly in their dimensions - one must be careful which battery is required since even the slightest size differences may cause the battery not to fit its compartment.
Updated: February 14, 2023.
BR1225 and CR1225 Battery Equivalents and Replacements
BR1225 and CR1225 batteries are very popular lithium 3.0V button/coin cell batteries, commonly used in thermometers, dog collars, key-less remotes, PDAs, medical scales, heart rate monitors, remote controls, motherboards, calculators, toys, and other electronic equipment.
Both BR1225 and CR1225 batteries share the same physical dimensions, but they differ in chemistry and thus have slightly different performances regarding capacity, voltages, operating temperature, self-discharge rate, shelf life, and similar.
Updated: February 14, 2023.
18500 Battery Equivalents and Replacements
18500 batteries are lithium-ion rechargeable cylindrical batteries, slightly smaller than the more popular 18650 batteries, and are commonly used in game controllers, LED flashlights, medical and security applications, solar lights, etc.
18500 batteries differ in shape, especially top battery terminals and internal construction. Also, they tend to differ slightly in height, requiring users to be careful when buying these (and other) cylindrical lithium batteries.
Published: February 10, 2023.
LiTime (Ampere Time) 24V 100Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Lithium Battery
LiTime (formerly known as Ampere Time) 24V 100Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Lithium Battery is a large and powerful but also rather lightweight deep cycle battery intended for various off-the-grid and outdoor applications and activities.
LiTime (Ampere Time) 24V 100Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Lithium Battery features an intelligent Battery Management System (BMS) that protects the battery from unwanted events, improving safety considerably. Also, if required, this battery may be connected in series (48V 100Ah battery pack) and in parallel (24V, up to 400Ah battery pack).
Updated: February 10, 2023.
LiTime (Ampere Time) 12V 400Ah Deep Cycle LiFePO4 Battery
LiTime (formerly known as Ampere Time) 12V 400Ah Deep Cycle LiFePO4 Battery is a large but surprisingly lightweight deep cycle battery based on the tried and tested Lithium Iron Phosphate chemistry and intended for various applications that require a battery that supports a large number of charging/discharging cycles, has good energy efficiency, can provide plenty of Amps, feature low self-discharge rate, accepts charge well, etc.
One of the very important features is that the LiTime (Ampere Time) 12V 400Ah battery supports connecting in both parallel and series with the largest configuration of 4S4P - that is, a battery pack of 51.2V and 1600 Ah. And that is a lot of energy ...
Updated: February 10, 2023.
LiTime (Ampere Time) 12V 300Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
LiTime (formerly known as Ampere Time) 12V 300Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery is a large and surprisingly lightweight deep cycle LiFePO4 battery, being able to provide very constant output voltage, with the maximum continuous output power of ~2.5 kW.
Thanks to the advanced BMS, it can be connected in parallel and series (up to 4 batteries in parallel/series), creating battery packs with even larger capacities and voltages of up to 48 volts.
Updated: February 9, 2023.
LiTime (Ampere Time) 12V 200Ah Plus Lithium LiFePO4 Battery
LiTime (formerly known as Ampere Time) 12V 200Ah Plus Lithium LiFePO4 Battery is a large, powerful, reliable, and surprisingly lightweight deep cycle battery commonly used in applications that require a battery (or battery pack) that cycles well and that accepts the charge well.
LiTime (Ampere Time) 12V 200Ah Plus Lithium LiFePO4 Battery is not the cheapest battery in its class, but it is a very popular one, thanks to its features that more than justify its price.
Updated: February 9, 2023.
LiTime (Ampere Time) 12V 100Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
LiTime (formerly known as Ampere Time) 12V 100Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate LiFePO4 battery is a deep cycle battery intended for marine, light industrial, automotive, off-the-grid, and other similar applications.
Thanks to its ultra-light and compact design, the LiTime (Ampere Time) 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery is one of the most popular batteries for use as a trolling motor battery, inverter battery, solar battery, RV battery, and similar. But, like any other LiFePO4 battery, it has to be recharged using dedicated 12V lithium battery chargers or chargers with dedicated 12V lithium battery charging mode.
Updated: February 9, 2023.
LiTime (Ampere Time) APT-12V50AH 12V 50Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
LiTime (formerly known as Ampere Time) APT-12V50AH is a very popular ultra-lightweight, deep cycle, Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery suitable for various applications requiring at most 500-600W and the battery that can be quickly recharged and that supports a large number of charging/discharging cycles.
LiTime (Ampere Time) APT-12V50AH is commonly used as a kayak trolling motor battery, fishfinder battery, small inverter battery in various off-the-grid systems, as a backup battery, in medical and security systems, etc.
Updated: February 9, 2023.
A-iPower SC2400iP 2400W Portable Inverter Generator
A-iPower SC2400iP is a rather quiet, compact, and reliable inverter power generator featuring low THD output, good fuel economy, a telescopic handle, a set of safety features, Eco-mode, a control panel with LED multi-meter display, etc.
A-iPower SC2400iP is intended for camping, tailgating, construction sites, emergencies and blackouts, and other situations where a 1900/2400W inverter power generator can come in very handy.
Published: February 7, 2023.
VMAXTANKS Batteries V30-800, V35-857, MR96, MR107, SLR125, MR127, MR137, SLR155 and MR197 Comparison
VMAXTANKS Batteries V30-800, V35-857, MR96, MR107, SLR125, MR137, SLR155, and MR197 are the most common VMAXTANKS batteries used in marine, automotive, light industrial, and similar applications.
Although they are defined as 'deep cycle' batteries, they can be used as starting batteries, too, just one must be aware of their limitations.
Updated: February 6, 2023.
How Long Does It Take to Charge a Car Battery?
Regardless of the car battery type or brand, from time to time, it may become necessary to recharge the car battery using the battery charger. Was the battery discharged due to the parasite load, multimedia devices, or for some other reason, this is not the topic of this article.
However, if that happens several times over a short period of time, check the alternator and the rest of the electric system of your car.
Updated: February 1, 2023.
Onboard Marine Chargers: Best 3 Bank Battery Charger
3 bank battery chargers are commonly used for charging several (up to 3) batteries at once, using just one battery charger.
Most onboard battery chargers are designed to be permanently connected to the batteries, which are then charged whenever the battery charger is plugged in the mains power.
3 bank battery chargers are commonly used on boats, yachts, electric vehicles, RVs, off-the-grid, and other applications that have the need to charge multiple batteries at once.
Updated: January 28, 2023.
1.5 Volt Battery: The Ultimate Guide
1.5 Volt batteries are some of the most popular batteries on the market, ranging in size from tiny button/coin cell batteries to large, heavy-duty cylindrical batteries.
Thanks to their popularity, practically all battery brands offer them - 1.5V batteries thus differ in chemistry, size, type, intended use, etc.
Published: January 28, 2023.
27A, A27, MN27 12V Battery Equivalents and Replacements
27A, A27, MN27 battery is a small, cylindrical, non-rechargeable battery commonly used in car alarms, remote controls, garage door openers, glucose, and blood pressure monitors, telecommunication devices, headsets, toys, etc.
According to the IEC standard, this battery label is 8LR732, since internally, it consists of 8 (eight) LR732 (or LR632) batteries connected in series.
Updated: January 26, 2023.
SR48, AG5/SG5, LR754, SR754, Orange Tab, Size 13, 193/309/393 Battery Equivalents and Replacements
SR48, AG5/SG5, LR754, SR754, Orange Tab/13, 193/309/393, etc., are small, button coin cell batteries often used in watches, toys, small LED flashlights, wearable electronics, remote controls, hearing aids, and similar.
SR48, AG5/SG5, LR754, SR754, Orange Tab/13, 193/309/393 batteries are available in several chemistries and are often labeled differently by their manufacturers, leading to some confusion among their users.
Updated: January 26, 2023.
Can You Jump Start a Car With a Bad Alternator?
When the car starting battery is discharged, one can jump-start a car with another car's battery using jump-start cables or using a car jump starter.
However, there are many reasons why the battery is dead in the first place, including parasite load over a longer period of time, a bad or simply old battery, or a bad or faulty alternator.
If the battery is almost new and there are no loads that would discharge the battery, and one nonetheless has to jump-start the car, there is a great probability that there is something wrong with the alternator or charge regulator, leading to the question if the car can be jump-started with a bad alternator...
Updated: January 25, 2023.
CR927 Battery Equivalents and Replacements
CR927 batteries are small, coin-cell types of batteries used in remote controllers, toys, watches, calculators, and similar devices and gadgets.
CR927 batteries are non-rechargeable lithium 3.0 volts batteries featuring good energy density and stable output voltage, making them a preferable choice for many micro and small electronic devices.
Updated: January 24, 2023.
CR2430 Battery Equivalents and Replacements
Lithium 3.0 volts non-rechargeable CR2430 batteries are button/coin-cell type of batteries commonly used in watches, fitness wearable electronics, car keys, remote controllers, calculators, healthcare devices (glucose monitors, for example), dog collars, as a backup battery, and similar.
CR2430 battery is rather common, but it is often labeled using other labels. Also, the round 2430 battery can be found in other chemistries, even rechargeable ones, leading to some confusion among users.
Updated: January 24, 2023.
16340 Rechargeable Battery and Its Equivalents: The Complete Guide
16340 battery is a cylindrical rechargeable battery based on one of the lithium-ion chemistries, ensuring relatively high discharge currents, stable output voltage, low self-discharge rate, etc.
As such, the 16340 battery is often used in high-output flashlights, photo/video equipment, toys, tools, and similar. However, there are several other very popular battery sizes that can, more or less easily, fit the 16340 battery compartments, leading to potential issues.
Published: January 23, 2023.
Why Is My Light Switch Hot: Reasons and Solutions
Light switches allow us to control lights and appliances by controlling the flow of electricity. Properly dimensioned and installed traditional light switches should not feel warm to the touch, while dimmer switches may become slightly warm.
However, when the light switch, regardless of the type, is getting hot, it must be addressed immediately. Failing to do that may lead to damaged lights, appliances, light switches, and wires, but also to sparks and fires.
Published: January 21, 2023.
NITECORE P20iX Xtreme LED Tactical Flashlight
NITECORE P20iX Xtreme is a tough and durable tactical LED flashlight with one of the strongest light outputs, while still keeping the battery's size and weight in check.
NITECORE P20iX Xtreme supports the use of Nitecore NL2150HPi 21700 battery, but also CR123A and RCR123A batteries, making it an excellent EDC (Every Day Carry) flashlight. However, the full potential of the flashlight can be achieved using only Nitecore 21700 rechargeable battery.
Published: January 17, 2023.
How To Connect Batteries in Series and Parallel: Series vs. Parallel
Batteries can be connected in series and parallel in order to create battery packs of larger voltage and/or capacity.
While in theory, batteries can be almost freely connected in parallel and series, following just a few simple rules, in real life, things are not that simple.
But, battery packs consisting of several batteries connected in parallel and/or series are used every day, and it is good to learn how to do it properly.
Updated: January 17, 2023.
16 Volt Battery: Guide To 16V AGM and Lithium Batteries
16-volt batteries are typically used in drag racers, circle track racers, and other racing cars and vehicles, in general, to help lower the weight of the electrical systems and to improve reliability, fuel efficiency, to crank larger engines, etc.
To reduce the weight even further, many racing vehicles lack alternators and charge controllers, requiring their batteries to work harder than typical car batteries since they must crank large internal combustion engines and power all electronic and electrical systems during the race.
Published: January 16, 2023.
AA vs AAA Battery: The Difference Between AA And AAA Batteries
AA and AAA batteries are very popular cylindrical batteries available in various chemistries, each offering different discharge characteristics.
AA and AAA batteries differ in size and hence the capacity. In certain situations, using a special battery holder, one may replace AA with AAA batteries, but at the expense of battery capacity.
Updated: January 14, 2023.
AA Batteries - Size, Types, and Equivalents
AA batteries are one of the most common battery sizes used in household electronic devices.
AA batteries differ in used chemistry and hence the capacity, voltage, discharge characteristics, and other features that are very important when powering sensitive electronic equipment.
Updated: January 13, 2023.
Shorai LFX19A4-BS12 Lithium Starting/Cranking Battery
Shorai LFX19A4-BS12 is a lithium battery designed for us as starting/cranking batteries in Powersports vehicles like motorbikes, snowmobiles, ATVs, and similar.
Shorai LFX19A4-BS12 features a compact and rather lightweight design, simple use and maintenance, good starting characteristics, low self-discharge rate, affordable price, etc.
However, one also has to know that Shorai LFX19A4-BS12 doesn't feature an internal balancer, and the use of a SHO-BMS01 Lithium Battery Charger/Maintainer/Balancer from time to time is highly recommended.
Updated: January 13, 2023.
How To Change Omron MC245 (MC-245) Thermometer Battery?
Omron MC245 (MC-245) thermometer is a simple-to-use and very accurate pen-like thermometer intended for measuring body temperature in several ways.
Omron MC245 (MC-245) thermometer comes with many interesting features, but unlike Omron MC246 (MC-246) thermometer, the Omron MC245 (MC-245) thermometer appears as if the battery replacement was not planned at all. But, Omron MC245 (MC-245) thermometer battery can be replaced.
Published: January 10, 2023.
26800 Battery and Chargers: 26800 vs. 26650 Battery
26800 batteries are large cylindrical batteries able to store and release plenty of energy. As such, 26800 batteries are often used in ebikes, scooters, and similar battery packs, but also in other applications requiring high-energy and high-power batteries.
Physically 26800 batteries are rather similar to much more popular 26650 batteries, and some devices can even be powered by both batteries.
Published: January 9, 2023.
Group 35 Batteries - Dimensions, Features, and Recommendations
BCI Group 35 batteries are very popular battery size of lead-acid batteries, commonly used in cars, trucks, RVs, and other similar applications as starting or dual-purpose batteries.
These batteries, especially dual-purpose and deep cycle batteries, are often used in other applications as well, like UPS batteries, wheelchair batteries, security system backup batteries, medical applications, off-the-grid, etc.
The most popular BCI Group 35 batteries are Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries, but lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries are slowly entering the market, especially for dual-purpose applications.
Updated: January 9, 2023.
Streamlight 44931 Siege 540-Lumen Compact D Alkaline Outdoor Lantern Flashlight
Streamlight 44931 Siege is a tough, durable and reliable LED lantern flashlight powered by three large D-cells and featuring white and red light, different light modes, removable glare-reducing polycarbonate cover, IPX7 waterproof level, etc.
Streamlight 44931 Siege can be used in many everyday situations, when camping, in emergencies, during blackouts, and similar.
Published: January 9, 2023.
Can A Generator Run A Heater?
During cold winter days, a space heater or an AC unit can make a huge difference between being comfortable or feeling miserable.
When being off-the-grid for whatever reason, when camping, during blackouts, or some other emergencies, staying warm is one of the most important things, so many people wonder if they can plug a space heater into a power or solar generator.
Published: January 5, 2023.
8 Volt Tractor Battery - The Complete Guide
8-volt tractor batteries are starting batteries and should not be confused with 8V deep-cycle batteries, which are typically used in golf carts and similar electric vehicles for creating battery packs of 24V and 48V.
8V cranking batteries are not as common as 12V Group U1 and Group 22NF batteries or 6V Group 1 batteries, but they are still present in some vehicles, and as such, they are also available on the market.
Published: January 4, 2023.
Trailer Battery Charger: AC-to-DC, DC-to-DC, and Solar Dump and Travel Trailer Battery Chargers
Regardless of the trailer type, trailer batteries are often hardworking batteries that often operate in anything but ideal conditions.
As such, these batteries have to be charged and kept fully charged when the trailer is not in use. The most common trailer battery chargers include AC-to-DC, DC-to-DC, and solar battery chargers and their combinations, allowing the trailer users to have their batteries charged regardless of the situation.
Published: January 3, 2023.
Weize LFP1235/TL1235 12V 35Ah Deep Cycle AGM Battery
Weize 12V 35Ah deep cycle battery is a very popular, general-purpose BCI U1 Group battery, often used in backup systems, electric vehicles, garden tractors, as a small off-the-grid inverter battery, and similar.
Weize 12V 35Ah battery is sometimes labeled as Weize LFP1235 and sometimes as Weize TL1235 battery, but these are two practically the same batteries.
Published: January 2, 2023.
AA Battery Weight: How Many AA Batteries Weigh 500 Grams
AA batteries are very popular battery size and are commonly used for consumer electronics, including toys, remotes, flashlights, cameras, drones, etc.
AA batteries come in various chemistries, with each chemistry having different discharge features but also different weight. And best of all, many manufacturers offer several battery models with the same chemistry but with different features and specifications. Here is the comparison chart of the most common AA batteries on the market.
Published: December 30, 2022.
Can I Run A TV Using A Power Generator?
Although even the smallest power generators are generally strong enough to power home TVs, even the largest ones, many people nonetheless ask if they can run their TVs using power generators. And they ask for a good reason.
When powering TVs using power generators, the output power of generators is not an issue. However, a waveform of the output voltage can cause various issues to modern TVs, laptops, tablets, audio devices, telecommunication devices, and similar devices.
Published: December 29, 2022.
How To Make Generator Quiet
Generators can be a great backup power source or a convenient way to bring electricity to a remote location, construction site, camping site, etc. However, they can also be quite loud, which can be a problem if you need to use one in a residential area or if you just want to reduce the noise level in your backyard.
There are several ways to make the generator quiet, and the best approach will depend on the specific power generator model and, of course, the budget.
Published: December 29, 2022.
JITA 12.8V 300Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
JITA 12.8V 300Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery is a high-capacity Lithium Iron Phosphate battery designed for deep discharge cycling applications like solar battery, power inverter battery, RV battery, trolling motor battery, and similar.
As such, the JITA 12.8V 300Ah battery is a rather lightweight battery, supporting a large number of charging/discharging cycles, even down to 100% DoD. Thanks to the built-in BMS, the battery is protected from overcharging, over-discharging, short circuit, etc.
Published: December 28, 2022.
Why Is My Car Clicking When Trying To Start?
Nobody wants to hear a clicking sound or just one click when trying to start the car, especially in a hurry.
There are many reasons why a car may produce a clicking sound when trying to start, from a bad battery to a bad starter or something even more serious. Fortunately, reasons are often relatively simple and can be solved rather quickly.
Published: December 28, 2022.
18 Gauge Wire (18/2 Wire, 18/3 Wire, 18/4 Wire) Amps: Guide to 18 Gauge Copper Speaker Wire
18 gauge wires are commonly used for powering devices that don't require too strong currents, including home or car speakers, except subwoofers.
But, for many other applications, 18 gauge wires tend to be too thin, especially when powering home appliances, tools, and similar loads.
Published: December 27, 2022.
Best AA Batteries For Trail Cameras
AA batteries are a very popular choice for powering trail, wildlife, and other similar outdoor cameras, which require reliable batteries with a wide temperature range being able to provide constant small currents for standby mode and short current pulses when actually taking pictures.
AA batteries come in several different chemistries, offering their users batteries with different features and at different prices.
Published: December 23, 2022.
Can You Use A Marine Battery In A Car
Both marine and car batteries share many similarities in terms of voltage, capacity, size, weight, CCA (Cold Cranking Amps), MCA (Marine Cranking Amps), chemistry, battery terminals, and similar.
When having issues with a car battery, replacing a car battery with a fully charged marine battery can be tempting, but can and should this be done?
Published: December 22, 2022.
How To Keep Generator Battery Charged
Power generators with remote and electric start feature built-in lead-acid or lithium starting batteries, which are required for cranking the internal combustion engine and for powering remote start electronics while the unit is in standby mode.
For a generator to be as reliable as possible, it is very important that its battery is fully charged and ready to be used at the moment's notice. However, some people wonder how to charge the generator's battery.
Published: December 22, 2022.
Generator Suicide Cord: Male to Male Extension Cord
Male-to-male extension cords are not very common extension cords but can come in very handy in emergencies and blackouts when one wants to provide at least some electric power to the home appliances.
Male-to-male extension cords are simple electrical cords with prongs on both ends, allowing the user to connect one end to the wall power socket and another end to the power generator.
Although such connections are quick and easy, there are a few very serious safety issues with them, giving these extension cords a rather grim nickname - suicide cord.
Updated: December 22, 2022.
Odyssey PC680 Battery - Types, Features, and Recommendations
Odyssey PC680 Battery is a dual-purpose AGM battery designed for Powersports vehicles in mind like ATVs, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and other applications that require a compact yet sturdy and durable battery.
Odyssey PC680 Battery comes in several versions, which are electrically identical but differ in the level of protection, terminal types, and, thus, physical dimensions and weight.
Updated: December 20, 2022.
Tri Fuel Generator: The Ultimate Guide
Power generators convert chemical energy stored in fossil fuels into electricity, allowing the users to power various electrical devices, tools, appliances, gadgets, etc., during blackouts, emergencies, when camping, on construction sites, and similar.
Tri-fuel generators are able to use three types of fuel, commonly gasoline (often shortened as "gas," which can lead to some confusion), propane gas (LPG - Liquid Petroleum Gas), and natural gas (NG).
Published: December 17, 2022.
Best AA Rechargeable Batteries For Solar Lights
AA rechargeable batteries are very often used to power small solar lights commonly used in the garden, backyard, along the pathways, and similar.
Rechargeable batteries for solar lights should feature broad charging and discharging temperature range, should support a large number of charging/discharging cycles, should support charging with various currents, must be safe for use, and similar.
Published: December 14, 2022.
Top 70+ Most Fuel-Efficient Power Generators
When comparing power generators, specific fuel efficiency is one of the sometimes neglected features, often disguised in runtime at certain power levels, usually @25%, @50%, or @100% of nominal power with the fuel tank capacity being provided, as well.
We are bringing You the list of the most fuel-efficient power generators with their efficiency provided in gallons and liters per kWh at a certain power level with other features provided as well.
Updated: December 14, 2022.
How Many Lumens Is The Sun?
When checking the features and specifications of various flashlights, one always checks the amount of lumens that the flashlight can produce.
Since our Sun converts ~4.000.000 tons of mass into energy every second(!), many people wonder how many lumens the sun is, despite it radiating the energy in a very broad spectrum.
Anyway, the sun is a very powerful "flashlight" ...
Published: December 12, 2022.
Weize FPLI-12100AH 12V 100Ah Lithium LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
Weize FPLI-12100AH battery is an ultralight, deep-cycle battery based on the Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry, supporting a large number of charging/discharging cycles.
As such Weize FPLI-12100AH battery is typically used in off-the-grid applications, electric vehicles, security and medical systems, as trolling motor battery, fish finder battery, car audio battery, inverter battery, etc.
Published: December 12, 2022.
JITA 12.8V 100Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
JITA 12.8V 100Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery is a very popular lithium battery intended for deep-cycle applications like off-the-grid applications, RVs, trolling motor batteries, power inverter batteries, emergencies and during blackouts, and similar.
JITA 12.8V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery supports deep discharge applications and offers great weight savings when compared with similar lead-acid batteries, it is a very cost-effective battery for applications that cycle a lot and similar.
Published: December 12, 2022.
Hatori Super Small Mini LED Flashlight
Hatori Super Small Mini LED Flashlight is a very compact, popular, and rather affordable LED flashlight powered by a single 1.5V AAA battery, which is not included.
Considering its dimensions and price, the flashlight features excellent output, and a sturdy and durable body that can withstand plenty of abuse, just be sure not to overdo it.
As such, Hatori Super Small Mini LED Flashlight is commonly used as an excellent pocket-size Every Day Carry (EDC) flashlight, but also in any other imaginable situation.
Published: December 8, 2022.
Group 65 Batteries - Dimensions, Features, and Recommendations
BCI Group 65 batteries are commonly used as automotive, marine, and industrial batteries. They are mid-size batteries, often designed as dual-purpose AGM batteries suitable as both starting and deep cycle batteries, thanks to the advances in AGM SLA battery technology.
Generally, group 65 batteries feature 70-75 Ah 20h capacity, 130-150 minutes RC, 750-950 CCA, with the MCA values of some models reaching almost 1100 Amps. Also, they usually weigh between 45 and 55 pounds (20 - 25 kg).
Lithium-ion BCI Group 65 batteries are not as common as AGM batteries, but they slowly appear on the market, offering many advantages over AGM batteries but also having certain limitations.
Updated: December 8, 2022.
Optima D34M, D27M, D31M BlueTop Dual Purpose Marine Batteries
Optima D34M, D27M, and D31M BlueTop Dual Purpose Marine Batteries are three models of very popular Optima AGM batteries.
They are 'true' dual-purpose batteries suitable as marine cranking batteries and deep cycle marine batteries. And they come at an affordable price.
Updated: December 8, 2022.
Treadmill Amps and Watts: Does A Treadmill Use A Lot Of Electricity?
Treadmills allow their users to walk, jog and run at home, even during bad and cold weather outside, and to burn tons of calories.
However, many people also wonder about treadmill power consumption and how many Watts and Amps their treadmills actually require.
Published: December 6, 2022.
CR2354 Battery Equivalents and Replacements
CR2354 is a non-rechargeable lithium 3.0V button/coin cell battery, often used in devices that require constant voltage for years to come and in small and compact devices that periodically need a reliable source of constant power combined with power pulses.
Thus, CR2354 batteries are commonly used in digital wrist watches, key fobs, medical devices, toys, calculators, wearable electronics, as CMOS backup batteries, and similar.
Published: December 6, 2022.
Best 21700 Battery
Lithium-ion 21700 batteries are very popular 3.6-3.7 volts batteries for high-drain devices that also require long-lasting batteries in terms of constant voltage, battery capacity, low self-discharge rate, and a large number of charging and discharging cycles.
21700 lithium rechargeable batteries come in many versions differing in their chemistry, battery capacity, maximum pulse and continuous drain current, maximum charging current, protective electronics, battery terminals, etc.
Updated: December 3, 2022.
Luminous Efficacy: Lumens to Watts Conversion
Different light sources emit different amounts of visible light using the same amount of power. Luminous efficacy is a measure that shows how well a light source converts one type of energy, usually electricity, into visible light.
Luminous efficacy is a ratio of luminous flux (given in lumens) and power (given in Watts) and is written as "lm/W." In short, more energy-efficient light sources will provide more lumens for the same amount of power.
Published: December 2, 2022.
Vacuum Wattage: How Many Watts Does a Vacuum Use?
Vacuum cleaners range in size, type, and wattage significantly, so when speaking about vacuum wattage, one must take into account these moments as well.
If You wish to find out how many watts your vacuum use, the best thing to do is to check the Owner's Guide that came with the unit. However, there are a few more things to consider as well ...
Published: November 29, 2022.
How to Convert Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) to Amp Hours (Ah)
Conversion between Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) and Amp Hours (Ah) is not a direct one for one very simple reason: Cold Cranking Amps describe the ability of the battery to provide strong currents required for starting/cranking of internal combustion engines, usually for 30 seconds, while Amp Hours (Ah) describes the capacity of the battery and its ability to provide certain current for, usually, 20 hours.
Basically, Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) and Amp Hours (Ah) both describe the capacity of the battery and its ability to provide current for some time - they are just two extremes of battery usage.
Updated: November 28, 2022.
Renogy 2000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Renogy 2000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Inverter is a robust and reliable 12V to 120V power inverter intended for a broad range of applications, including marine and industrial applications, but also in emergencies, blackouts, camping, off-the-grid and similar.
Renogy 2000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Inverter features pure sine wave output with a very low THD, high energy efficiency, remote controller, it supports the use of various battery types, etc.
Published: November 28, 2022.
Clore Automotive Pro-Logix PL2320 20/10/2 Amp 6/12V Intelligent Battery Charger/Maintainer
Clore Automotive Pro-Logix PL2320 20/10/2 Amp 6/12V Intelligent Battery Charger/Maintainer is a versatile lead-acid battery charger intended for charging practically all lead-acid battery types featuring 6V and 12V with different charging currents including 2A, 10A, and 20A. Also, it can be used as an automotive power supply for powering a car's electronics, for example.
Clore Automotive Pro-Logix PL2320 features an advanced multi-phase algorithm, allowing it to recover even deeply discharged batteries, to recondition and to maintain the batteries fully charged.
Published: November 28, 2022.
Light Bulb Wattage: How Many Watts Does A Light Bulb Use
Light bulbs are smallish devices that convert electric energy into light and heat, and until a few years, not many people wondered about their energy efficiency.
But, with the rise of electric energy prices, and the introduction of newer light bulb technologies, many people ask themselves how many watts their light bulbs actually use and if it is worth to start using new, energy very efficient LED bulbs.
Published: November 24, 2022.
Optima RedTop vs. YellowTop vs. BlueTop vs. OrangeTop Batteries - Comparison and Recommendation
Optima batteries are very popular lead-acid automotive, marine and light industrial batteries. Depending on their intended purpose, they come in three versions, easily distinguished by their color: RedTop, YellowTop, and BlueTop.
Also, new Optima OrangeTop batteries are Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries intended for the Powersports market and range from 3 to 15Ah and from 190 to 800 PHCA, covering almost all ATVs, snowmobiles, motorbikes, and similar vehicles.
Updated: November 23, 2022.
Car Battery Died While Driving - Can a Car Battery Die While Driving?!
Many people wonder if the car battery can die while driving, especially after their car battery died while driving. Obviously, the answer is "Yes, a car battery can die while driving."
A good car starting or dual-purpose battery should not die while driving, but although it is a rare event, it happens. There are many reasons why a car battery dies while driving, here are the few most common ones...
Updated: November 22, 2022.
Wet/Flooded, AGM and Gel-Cell Deep Cycle, Dual Purpose and Starting Lead-Acid Batteries - Little Bit of Theory
Lead-acid batteries are still the preferred choice for many marine, automotive and industrial applications, despite the presence of lightweight and powerful lithium-ion batteries on the market for quite some time.
As such, lead-acid batteries come in many sizes, forms, electrolyte types, plate alloys, intended uses, etc. that sometimes finding the right battery for certain applications may be a daunting task. But it shouldn't be...
Updated: November 22, 2022.
Top Off Car Battery: Battery Acid vs. Battery Water
Despite technological advances, especially lithium batteries, many road vehicles still use lead-acid batteries as starting/cranking batteries.
Some lead-acid batteries are not maintenance-free batteries, and to prolong car battery life, one must add battery water to the battery acid to maintain the battery electrolyte in proper condition.
Published: November 21, 2022.
How to Choose the Best Electric ATV for Kids and Adults
Electric All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) are a type of Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs) that are becoming more and more popular thanks to the improvements in batteries and other electric and electronic components.
Electric ATVs range in size from toy vehicles for small children to large and powerful vehicles with performances comparable to gas-powered ATVs.
Updated: November 18, 2022.
Battery Cables and Terminals: Is Red Positive Or Negative?
When connecting batteries, jump starters, jumper cables, and similar to the car's or similar batteries, it is very important to know which cable and terminal post are positive and which ones are negative.
Also, it is very important to know which one to connect or disconnect first.
Not knowing such information can be dangerous since car batteries and jump starters are able to provide huge currents, even when not fully charged.
Updated: November 18, 2022.
Dimmable LED Flash: How To Solve LED Dimming Issues
Older incandescent bulbs are being phased out thanks to the energy-efficient LED light bulbs. However, incandescent bulbs were very simple and reliable - after all, they are "just" a very thin tungsten (wolfram, W) filament with no electronics of any kind.
LED light bulbs, on the other hand, depend on the built-in electronic controller to run Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) - if the controller doesn't work properly, the light provided by LEDs is anything but smooth and pleasant.
What causes dimming issues of the LED lights, and how can one fix it? We look at the causes and solutions for flashing and flickering LED lights.
Published: November 18, 2022.
How Many Watts Does An Air Conditioner Use?
Air conditioners are some of the more significant energy consumers in any household, and people often wonder how many watts an air conditioner (AC unit) draws and how much that electricity costs.
Things are not that simple since AC units come in different sizes, types, energy classes, and similar. Also, it is not the same as how the air conditioner is used and how long it operates per day.
Published: November 17, 2022.
What Gauge Wire Is Needed To Connect 12V Batteries?
When connecting batteries in series and parallel, it is important to know the maximum current that will go through the wires and the length of the wires.
12V lead-acid and lithium batteries are able to provide very strong currents, but if too thin wires are used, energy losses may be unacceptable. Also, overheating of the wires and even fires are easily possible.
Published: November 14, 2022.
8S LiPo Battery: All About 8S Lithium Polymer Batteries
Lithium polymer (LiPo for short) batteries feature electrolyte in the form of polymer gel, hence the name. In order to increase the voltage and, thus efficiency, more cells are connected in series.
For example, when 8 LiPo cells are connected in series, 8S ("S" for connection in Series) LiPo batteries are created, which are able to provide huge amounts of power in a very short period of time. However, regardless of advances in chemistry and other technologies, 8S LiPo batteries should be handled with care.
Published: November 14, 2022.
Swagtron Swagcycle EB-7 Elite Plus Folding Electric Bike
As its label suggests, Swagtron Swagcycle EB-7 Elite Plus Folding Electric Bike is a compact, relatively lightweight electric bike designed for everyday commuting to work and back, for leisure rides, but also, if needed, for some sports adventures.
Swagtron Swagcycle EB-7 Elite Plus features a very balanced design, with a sturdy, foldable aluminum frame, supporting relatively heavy riders over flat terrain. However, for traversing quickly over hilly terrain, some pedaling is required, especially from larger people.
Published: November 12, 2022.
Washing Machine Wattage: How Many Watts Does A Washing Machine Use?
A washing machine is a large appliance that is used quite often, especially in larger families with kids.
While absolutely needed, many people wonder how many watts and how much energy a washing machine needs to do its job and how does it reflect on the electricity bill?
Published: November 10, 2022.
Best Sump Pump Backup Battery
Battery-powered sump pumps are a type of emergency equipment that must operate reliably when required, and saving money on these pumps or their batteries may be a very expensive thing to do.
The sump pump backup battery must be strong enough to power the sump pump motor, and it must store enough energy to power the whole unit long enough to prevent as much damage as possible until mains power is restored.
Updated: November 10, 2022.
How to Charge a Marine Battery
Electrical demands on modern boats are much higher than a decade or more ago.
Nearly all fishing boats have electrical devices such as lights, radios, sonars, refrigerators, laptops, electric trolling motors, electric watermakers, etc.
Updated: November 10, 2022.
Computer Wattage: How Many Watts Does A Computer Use?
Computers are present in various forms at any home, and while not being as energy-hungry as some other devices and appliances, it is good to know how much energy and Watts computers require.
Just like other electrical devices, computers do differ in many features, power consumption included. However, some average computer wattage can be safely assumed when calculating required energy and, of course, electric bills.
Published: November 9, 2022.
What To Do When Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping
Circuit breakers are designed to protect electrical circuits from damage caused by overload and short circuits.
Sometimes circuit breakers start tripping quickly and frequently, protecting the electric circuit but also signaling an issue with the load, power switches, outlets, or maybe even wiring.
And the "best" of all, like everything else, sometimes even a circuit breaker may malfunction.
Published: November 5, 2022.
Gyroor X8 Foldable Electric Scooter
Gyroor X8 Foldable Electric Scooter is designed for teenagers and adults that need a relatively strong and agile electric scooter that can also be used for both everyday commuting and having fun.
Gyroor X8 Foldable Electric Scooter offers a strong rear hub motor, large battery, relatively fast battery charger, shock absorbers, App control, safety lock, safety lights, etc. Considering its price, Gyroor X8 Foldable Electric Scooter has plenty to offer.
Published: November 4, 2022.
18650 Battery vs. AA Battery
Both 18650 and AA batteries are cylindrical batteries that differ in size, and that come in various types of battery chemistries, thus differing in the battery voltage, capacity, and other charging/discharging characteristics.
In order to simplify finding the batteries for their devices, some manufacturers ship their 18650 devices (mostly flashlights) with an AA battery holder that allows AA batteries to be used in the 18650 battery compartments. But is this actually a good idea?
Updated: November 4, 2022.