Battery Frequently Asked Questions

Your go-to guide for understanding, maintaining, and getting the most out of your batteries. Curated by RedPoint – your local experts in dependable battery solutions.

What’s the difference between a deep cycle battery and a regular car battery?

Car batteries (also called starting batteries) are built to deliver quick bursts of high power to crank your engine. They’re constantly recharged by the alternator and don’t tolerate being deeply discharged.

Deep cycle batteries are built differently – they use thicker plates to provide a steady flow of power over a long period. They’re ideal for running fridges, pumps, lights, and other accessories in caravans, campers, or boats.

In short: car batteries start engines, deep cycle batteries run gear.

What is the best deep cycle battery?

There’s no single 'best' battery – it depends on your setup, power needs, and budget.

- Flooded batteries: Affordable but need regular maintenance.

- AGM batteries: Maintenance-free, durable, can be mounted in any position.

- Lithium: Lightweight, longest cycle life, can be discharged to 100%, but costs more upfront.

Our team can help you choose the right battery for your setup – contact us for more information.

Why has my battery gone flat?

Common causes include:

- Undercharging: Especially in modern vehicles with fuel-saving alternator systems.

- Human error: Leaving lights or dashcams running overnight.

- Parasitic drain: Alarms, electronics or rust prevention systems slowly drawing power.

- Short trips: Engine starts use more energy than short drives can replenish.

- Old age: Batteries lose capacity with age – average life is 3–4 years.

Will a short drive recharge a flat battery?

Not effectively. Driving only gives a surface charge. To bring a flat battery back to life, use a proper multi-stage charger rated at roughly 10% of the battery's amp-hour capacity (e.g., a 60Ah battery needs a 6A charger).

Do batteries go flat over time even if not used?

Yes – especially lead-acid types. Self-discharge happens naturally, and parasitic drains (even when parked) can accelerate it.

We recommend using a trickle charger or maintainer for cars, boats, or caravans not used regularly.

Do flat batteries affect fuel economy?

Yes. Smart alternators work harder to recharge a flat battery, putting more load on the engine and increasing fuel use.

Are batteries with higher CCA better?

Not always. CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) measures starting power in cold weather. A higher CCA doesn't mean better performance unless your vehicle requires it.

What matters more is a battery built to suit your climate, driving habits, and electrical loads.