Let’s explore all about Batteries in Series vs Parallel configurations: When batteries are connected in series, the positive terminal of one battery is connected to the negative terminal of another battery. The voltage adds up while the capacity (ampere-hours) remains the same. Here’s a summary of the characteristics of batteries in series:
Typically Lead acid batteries have a DOD of 50% (Please refer to battery manufacturer’s specifications for your specific battery) but in real world terms this means a 100AH lead acid battery has around 50AH of useable power before the battery is considered “flat” and is showing a voltage of below 11.9V DC. A typical Lead Acid battery
There is no specific limit to the number of lead acid batteries that can be wired in series. However, it is crucial to ensure that the total voltage of the battery bank remains within the limits of the charge controller or inverter being used. This ensures compatibility and proper operation of the battery system.
Please note: some Lithium batteries are not suitable to connect into series or parallel so please make sure you have checked that your battery is compatible before connecting them this way. A typical Lithium battery Most batteries can be connected to increase battery capacity and / or voltage in the following ways:
Figure 1: Four 12V 100AH batteries, connected in series When connected in parallel the battery capacity will increase, the voltage will remain as noted for the one battery. For example, two 12V 100AH batteries connected in parallel will give a total of battery capacity of 200Ahr at 12V.
Understanding the characteristics of batteries connected in series helps in designing and analyzing series circuit configurations. Connecting batteries in series increases voltage, while wiring them in parallel increases the battery bank capacity.