What is a Gel Cell Battery – Advantages and Disadvantages of a Gel Battery

Energizing something via a battery is the most common way to give any device a head start. Battery power has been in demand for a very long time. With technology getting more advanced, battery manufacturers have been finding innovative ways to be resourceful to consumers. Many consumers ask what is a gel cell battery. You might be asking, too.

There are many existing types of batteries in the market already, and the limit to explore and expand has not been muted in any way, for companies have been creating new batteries and upgrading to something more serviceable like the gel battery, also known as gel cell battery. Let’s dive deeper.

What is a Gel Cell Battery – The Essentials

As you can see, it is hinted at in the name itself. The gel formula is used instead of the orthodox liquid electrolytes in such batteries. What goes on is that the gel is converted to electrolytes, and the gel form emerges because silica fumes are used to turn the sulfuric acid into a jelly-like matter. This process does not mean that fusing the gel instead of liquid will cause any trouble, and it is a noteworthy upgrade to stop spilling the liquid from the battery. As we all know, spilling and splashing is one common mishap of wet cell batteries, also known as flooded batteries. Gel batteries can be worked feasibly in vehicles and other applications, even inside your house.

A Breakdown of Three Battery Types

In short, silica turns the sulphuric acid into a jelly form inside a gel cell battery and is used as an electrolyte. Stronger of the lot, gel batteries can be used fluently in deep cycle applications, powering up a solar unit to an electric wheelchair, and more. The gel batteries have some downfalls, too; they cannot bear extreme electrical flow and cannot be used in fast charging and discharging situations. Apart from the negative traits, gel cell batteries are very handy and durable for people looking for less maintenance and decent performance in powering up their desired units. Remember that this battery type is not the jack of all trades but a few feasible ones.

The Wet Cell batteries use acid electrolytes and lead plates. Flooded batteries are not sealed units; therefore, they discharge gas, steam, etc., directly into the environment through ventilation. This battery type desires maintenance unlike a gel cell battery – acid electrolytes need to be catalyzed by filling water occasionally. The good thing about wet cell batteries is that the charging rate is very rapid compared to gel cell batteries, but they need to be maintained well to extract a good output.

The electrolytes are rooted in place inside an AGM battery using a separator. This battery type is specially designed to work at high temperatures, provide a high charging rate to a low discharge rate, and generate more cycles compared to a gel battery at a lower price. AGM batteries come fully sealed like gel units and are substantially powerful at an affordable price.

Maintenance of a Gel Battery

Maintaining a gel cell battery is hassle-free. Just ensure it is stored properly, and you are ready. Gel batteries are completely sealed and require no add-on maintenance like water removal. These batteries are far more flexible and durable than wet-cell batteries. Although a bit higher on the price, it is inevitable to perform to the fullest. The full sealed-on feature also makes it safer for use. So if you want a durable power unit that lasts longer, needing no maintenance every now and then, then the gel cell batteries are the ones you should purchase.

Advantages of a Gel Cell Battery

– This battery type doesn’t need any maintenance, as it is well constructed with features to upkeep itself.

– This battery doesn’t spill, therefore immaculate all the time.

– Regarding safety standards, it is very safe due to a completely sealed unit.

– Easy to move on and placed in indifferent areas, unlike wet cell batteries that require a designated space.

– Gel batteries can endure shock and vibrations at ease.

– Doesn’t emit hydrogen fumes.

– Doesn’t need to be placed in a ventilated area.

– It is easy to bring back to life even if unused for a long time.

– Can be used in solar power units, wheelchairs, electric cars, etc.

– Best use for deep-cycle applications

Disadvantages of a Gel Battery

– Needs special chargers to charge

– A slower rate of charging compared to a lead-acid battery.

– Overcharging can cause internal damage and degrade the charging capability.

– Prone to deteriorate slightly when exposed to high temperature.

– Higher price compared to other battery options.

So, we now have a clear picture of what is a gel cell battery. Still, it is also important to know the difference between other battery types as well because people tend to misunderstand and confuse AGM batteries with Gel batteries. 

What is a Gel Cell Battery – Final verdict

Knowing what is a gel cell battery is beneficial to any consumer willing to purchase a battery for solar units, power wheelchairs, electric cars, etc. The gel cell battery will do wonders in performance and output if you are looking for a unit best suited for deep cycling. You must remember that gel cell batteries require special charging units only designed for a particular cause otherwise fated to fail.

You can look for 12V Gel cell smart battery chargers available. Gel cell batteries are a good way to start being environmentally conscious. Unlike wet cell batteries, a gel cell battery will not emit fumes into the open air. Extremely durable in resisting shocks and vibrations. This particular battery type needs no maintenance and can serve longer as a deep-cycling battery.

If you have read this far, you most likely are in the market for a Gel Cell battery or considering a [purchase of one. Some of the best choices for high-quality, high-value gel cell batteries are here on this page and include:

• Mighty Max ML35-12GEL, a 12V 35AH GEL rechargeable maintenance free battery
• Renogy 12V 100AH Deep Cycle Hybrid Gel Battery
• ExpertPower 12V 18AH Gel Deep Cycle Battery