How Does a 12V Gel Battery Work?

When researching the best 12V gel battery for your machine, whether you’re operating a floor cleaner, mobility scooter, battery-powered mower, or an RV, it’s hard to tell which option will be a wise purchase. Some of us might even be tempted to just get the cheapest option on the market--or, conversely, the most expensive--feeling that the price will correlate with the results. However, it’s important to note that different batteries have different strengths and weaknesses. For some functions, you’ll need a deep-cycle battery, and for others, you’ll need one that can give a strong initial burst of ignition power.

Gel batteries are a newer development, and free from many of the limitations of older batteries. They’re more stable and efficient than most batteries. When is it worthwhile to invest in a gel battery? Here’s a closer look at what these batteries are all about:

Gel Batteries Are a Form of Lead Acid Batteries

Lead acid batteries are not new, but their technology is still current. Lead acid batteries use charged lead plates to power the battery. Wet cell (or flooded cell) batteries are a type of lead acid battery that uses a liquid electrolyte solution to carry the charge. And although this liquid-based method is efficient enough to still be in use today, it has a few drawbacks. Namely, off-gassing, need for maintenance to top up liquids and clean corrosion, sensitivity to vibration, and a need to stay upright to keep all functioning as it should.

Gel batteries work much the same as flooded cell batteries. However, instead of a liquid conductor, silica is added to create a gel solution. Gel batteries are also a kind of VRLA, or valve-regulated lead acid battery. This means that internal gasses are contained and recombine within the battery, instead of being released as a gas, as they do in other batteries with open vents. This leads to more efficiency and less environmental pollutants.

Benefits of Gel Batteries

• Minimal fumes and off-gassing (can be used even in enclosed areas safely)
• Well suited for deep cycle purposes (such as solar storage, or machines in daily use)
• They’re hardy: spill-proof, resistant to damage from vibrations, and fine even when stowed sideways

For all of these reasons, 12v gel batteries are often used for machines that get frequent, heavy use, such as mobility scooters or power wheelchairs. MK Battery offers only the highest quality on our 12V gel batteries. Browse our selection today!