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: April 29, 2021.

Most common BCI Group 24 battery chemistry is AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) SLA (Sealed Lead Acid) battery, but there are other chemistries/type present as well, like gel-cell batteries, flooded battery and even lithium-ion batteries.

BCI Group 24 batteries feature dimensions of (L x W x H) 10.25 x 6.8125 x 8.875 inches (260 x 173 x 225 mm), but there are other subgroups present as well:

BCI Group Size	L x W x H (mm)	L x W x H (inches)	Amazon Search
24	260 x 173 x 225	10 1/4 x 6 13/16 x 8 7/8	Group 24 Battery
24F	273 x 173 x 229	10 3/4 x 6 13/16 x 9	Group 24F Battery
24H	260 x 173 x 238	10 1/4 x 6 13/16 x 9 3/8	Group 24H Battery
24R	260 x 173 x 229	10 1/4 x 6 13/16 x 9	Group 24R Battery
24T	260 x 173 x 248	10 1/4 x 6 13/16 x 9 3/4	Group 24T Battery

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Although these batteries are rather similar, note that BCI Group 24F is slightly longer and wider than other groups.

Despite height differences, in most cases, battery compartments have at least some spare height and if they are able to accommodate Group 24 battery (8 7/8 inch height), in most cases they are able to accommodate even the batteries from Group 24T (9 3/4 inch height) which is 7/8 inch (0.875 inch, ~22 mm) taller than 'standard' Group 24 battery.

 Group 24 Batteries vs. Other Popular Battery Groups

Most common battery groups and their dimensions in inches and centimeters are given in the following chart:

Battery compartments that accept group 24 batteries, may also accept group 34 batteries (same length and width, just one inch lower height). Group 25/35 batteries feature the same height (8.875 inches, 22.5 cm), they are somewhat shorter (~1.2 inches, 3 cm), but are also slightly wider (0.0625 inches, 0.16 cm) - this width difference is so small that practically can be ignored.

Note: Group 25 and group 35 batteries features same physical dimensions and are used almost interchangeable. But, when getting group 25/35 batteries, be sure to check actual dimensions, terminal type, terminal orientation and similar. But, that is whole another story ...

Group 24 Batteries Comparison Chart

The following chart lists some of the most popular BCI Group 24 batteries:

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Again, since group 24 battery compartments may accept group 34 batteries, the following chart lists the most popular BCI group 34 batteries and their most important features:

Note: Amazon affiliate links ('Model' column) open in the new windows, feel free to check them for the most up-to-date prices and offers.

Due to the slightly smaller dimensions, group 34 batteries feature smaller 20h capacity (50-75 vs 75-85 Ah), shorter Reserve Capacity (100-145 vs 140-180 minutes) and are generally lighter (37 - 51 vs 43 - 57 pounds).

Since group 24 batteries are mostly deep cycle batteries and group 34 batteries may be found as deep cycle, dual purpose and as starting batteries, people that need starting group 24 batteries should consider either dual-purpose NorthStar NSB-AGM24 battery (1000 MCA) or dual purpose/starting group 34 batteries - NorthStar NSB-AGM34 (1050 MCA), Odyssey 34M-PC1500 (1050 MCA), or Optima RedTop 34 (1000 MCA).

Group 24 Batteries as Wheelchair Batteries

Due to their dimensions, group 24 batteries are mostly used in single battery, 12 volts wheelchair electric system.

Endurance of such wheelchairs depend on their motors, controllers, terrain and driving needs. For example, wheelchairs with 2x150 watt motors, may expect operating time roughly similar to the Reserve Capacity value of these batteries.

One of the best deep cycle performers in this group is VMAXTANKS SLR-85, featuring RC value of 180 minutes - that is 3 hours of non-stop driving at full power.

However, wheelchairs designed for outdoor use commonly have 2x250 or 2x300 watts motors, requiring 40-50 Amps of current.

Group 24 batteries are able to provide such currents, but as the current is increased, effective capacity is decreased, for example:

- Mighty Max ML75-12: 48.5 Amps for 1h, down to 9.6 volts (48.5 Ah),

- UPG UB12750: 42.0 Amps for 1h, down to 9.6 volts (42.0 Ah).

Other group 24 batteries perform better when being drained at this rate, but exact data are rather hard to find.

Price of group 24 batteries varies depending on capacity, warranty, discharge characteristics and similar.

When looking for the right group 24 battery for your application, choose according to your personal needs, but also brand preferences.

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Long Story Short: BCI group 24 batteries are primarily intended for deep cycle or dual purpose applications. Regardless if they are intended for automotive, marine or industrial applications, these batteries can store plenty of energy and provide plenty of power, especially when being used in low power applications.

These batteries differ in terms of chemistry, battery type, terminals, weight, starting and deep discharge performances and in the end, price.

Note: Amazon affiliate links ('Model' column) open in the new windows, feel free to check them for the most up-to-date prices and offers.

Since these batteries are not the cheapest on the market, before ordering new group 24 battery, be sure to check specifications of your old battery (especially battery and battery compartment actual size) and compare it with the batteries in the chart.

Note: whatever you do, stay safe. Even deep cycle batteries can provide a serious energy burst and cause damage, injuries or worse.