A beginner’s guide to batteries

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Discover how to choose the right battery for you. Understand the differences between starting, semi-cycling, deep cycle, and dual-purpose batteries.
RACQ batteries lined up on ground

When you're in the market to buy a new battery it can be overwhelming to have so many choices in front of you. In this article, we aim to give you a helpful overview of the different types of batteries and uses. We'll cover starting, semi-cycling, dual-purpose and deep cycle batteries. Understanding the differences and purposes between these batteries is crucial to selecting the right one for your needs.

Starting batteries: powerhouses to start up your engines

Also known as cranking batteries, starting batteries deliver a quick burst of power to start an engine. They are designed to provide a large amount of current rapidly and this is their main purpose. Starting batteries are not intended to be used for sustained power over an extended time. Doing so can cause damage to the battery. Starting batteries are commonly used in automotive capacities. They're helpful for starting cars, motorcycles and trucks.

Deep cycle batteries: sustained power over time

In contrast to starting batteries, deep cycle batteries are designed for sustained power. They can withstand deep discharges and also recharges. Deep cycle batteries do this without significance performance or capacity loss. Their characteristics make them ideal for applications requiring a reliable power source for extended periods. Common uses of deep cycle batteries include caravans, RVs, boats and solar energy systems.

Starting and semi-cycling batteries: a hybrid solution

Starting and semi-cycling batteries combine the characteristics of both starting batteries and deep cycle batteries. They have high cranking power and limited cycling capabilities. This means they have the ability to start engines and occasionally be used for longer periods of time. However, they are not ideally used for long-term, deep cycling applications. These batteries are useful for situations where someone wants the ability to start an engine and have some ability to power accessories in vehicles.

Dual-purpose batteries: the all-rounder

Dual-purpose batteries have effective starting and deep cycling capabilities. They provide the high cranking power required for engine start-up and can also handle moderate cycling. These batteries are widely used in marine applications and other scenarios where someone might want a reliable combination of starting and cycling capabilities.

Choosing the right battery for your needs

In summary, each type of battery serves a specific purpose in different applications.

  • Starting batteries are tailored for high cranking power.
  • Deep cycle batteries offer continuous and sustained power.
  • Starting and semi-cycling batteries give you engine-starting capabilities with added limited cycling.
  • Dual-purpose batteries can get your engine started and provide deep cycling that gives you power for extended periods.

Armed with this information you'll be able to compare these capabilities with your needs. Visit our lithium batteries product page to explore our wide range of high-quality batteries from leading global manufacturers.

If you’re still unsure about which battery to choose, or want to make sure you’re on the right track, you are welcome to speak to one of our battery experts who can assist you.

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Use our handy online battery finder tool* to find the right battery or book your battery replacement.
When purchasing a lithium battery, it’s important to do your research and fact check the claims made by sellers online. RACQ’s recreational lithium battery range are lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), have undergone thorough testing, and include an internal battery management system (BMS) ensuring safe operation.

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  • The information in this article has been prepared for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal advice or specific advice to any particular person. Any advice contained in the document is general advice, not intended as legal advice or professional advice and does not take into account any person’s particular circumstances. Before acting on anything based on this advice you should consider its appropriateness to you, having regard to your objectives and needs.

    Insurance products (excluding Travel Insurance) are issued by RACQ Insurance Limited ABN 50 009 704 152 (RACQ). Conditions, limits and exclusions apply. This is general advice only and may not be right for you. This information does not take your personal objectives, circumstances or needs into account. Read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and any applicable Supplementary PDS before making a purchase decision on this product. You can also access our Target Market Determinations on this website.

    Banking and loan products issued by Members Banking Group Limited ABN 83 087 651 054 AFSL/Australian credit licence 241195 trading as RACQ Bank. Terms, conditions, fees, charges and lending policies apply. This is general advice only and may not be right for you. This information does not take your personal objectives, circumstances or needs into account. Read the disclosure documents for your selected product or service, including the Financial Services Guide and the Terms and Conditions, and consider if appropriate for you before deciding.

    Except for RACQ Bank, any RACQ entity referred to on this page is not an authorised deposit-taking institution for the purposes of the Banking Act 1959 (Cth). That entity’s obligations do not represent deposits or other liabilities of RACQ Bank. RACQ Bank does not guarantee or otherwise provide assurance in respect of the obligations of that entity, unless noted otherwise.

    RACQ Operations Pty Ltd (ABN 80 009 663 414 AR 000234978) and Members Travel Group Pty Ltd (ABN 45 144 538 803 AR 000432492) are acting as an Authorised Representative of the issuer of the insurance, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. (ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548). Any advice set out above is general in nature only, and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before purchasing any travel products, please consider the RACQ Travel Insurance Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and the Target Market Determinations (TMDs) that apply to these products. Whilst the PDS outlines the Terms and Conditions of these products, the TMDs outline the intended class of customers that comprise the target market for these travel products. This will allow you to consider which products best suit your objectives, financial situation and needs and consider the products appropriateness to your personal circumstances. TMDs also outline matters involving the distribution and the review of these products. The PDS, Supplementary PDS and TMDs for each travel product can be found here.

*Battery finder tool terms and conditions:
  • Every effort has been made to present accurate data which is obtained from various automobile manufacturers and unpublished information sources. While RACQ believes these information sources to be reliable and have taken reasonable precautions in their compilation, RACQ does not assume responsibility for any inaccuracies. RACQ reserves the right to change specifications without notice
  • RACQ will use reasonable endeavors to deliver the battery to you within one hour after you request a mobile battery replacement service. However, there may be circumstances in which it is not possible for RACQ to deliver the battery to you within this timeframe. Including circumstances beyond RACQ’s control, limited battery stock availability and battery stock location.
  • RACQ has made all reasonable efforts to ensure the data presented is accurately compiled and is obtained from various reputable and unbiased manufacturers and unpublished information sources.
  • RACQ does not assume responsibility for any inaccuracies in the presented information, where it is sourced in the above manner.
  • Where a recommendation has been made, that recommendation is made based on the information you provide. RACQ takes no responsibility for any loss you incur from reliance on a recommendation, where that recommendation is based on incorrect information.
  • If your vehicle is a “start/stop” vehicle, then the appropriate battery type must be fitted. RACQ only fit EFB and AGM battery types to these vehicles.
  • Any recommendation of battery type and price will be subject to final confirmation by the attending RACQ Patrol or by an Approved Battery Stockist; RACQ reserves the right to change recommended specifications based on their assessment.