whats the best battery to use for off grid electric? (solar, costs)

[sdc33]

I'm interested in going off grid some day. What would be the best type of battery, and how many would be needed?

[harry chickpea]

There is no single answer. It is a trade-off of costs, maintenance issues, output, weight, and other factors.

[texdav]

Also batteries have their own environmental problems. they are nortious for not being the same even when built to the saem standards;in other words they are not eqaul when tested.Most of the storage batteries like this are now deep cycle lead acid batteries.

[GregW]

I suggest deep cycle lead acid from a long established manufacturer. Avoid discount suppliers. This is a place where you get what you pay for. Use industrial, not consumer quality. The key to long L-A battery life is a very good charger and strict water maintenance and cleanliness.

[my54ford]

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Good tips from GregW... I deal with a number of large DC battery systems used as emergancy and control voltage in power plants. Many of these have lasted 20+yrs but monthly maintenance and correct charging and balancing are key. It is my professional technical opinion that chargeing batterys with wind generators will shorten the life cycle. The sparodic operating nature and sometimes poor power quality from home grown wind power is not good for batterys. If possible hydro would be a better renewable chargeing option........

[Isfoffice]

Look at the HUP Solar One battery it's lead-acid and it lasts 20+ years HUP SOLAR ONE BATTERIES
There are other sites too Talk to them