Lead Acid Battery Discharge: How Low Can It Go and Safe Voltage Levels?

A lead acid battery should not go below 10.8 volts while under load. Dropping to this minimum voltage risks battery damage and negatively impacts battery health. To keep the battery in good condition, avoid regularly discharging it to this limit. Always check voltage levels during use to ensure recommended levels are maintained.

If the voltage drops below this threshold, the battery may be at risk of damage. Discharging a lead acid battery to a voltage lower than 10.5 volts can lead to sulfation. Sulfation is a process where lead sulfate crystals form on the battery plates, reducing its capacity and lifespan. Therefore, it is advisable to recharge the battery when it nears 50% discharge, or around 12.0 volts.

Maintaining these voltage levels ensures optimal performance and durability of the battery. Understanding lead acid battery discharge characteristics helps users avoid damaging their batteries. In the next part, we will explore the signs of battery over-discharge and how to identify when a lead acid battery needs recharging or maintenance.

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