New Batteries 17B with Solar

[USMCJS]

My two batteries on my 17b (with solar panel) have a October 2016 date on them. I'm thinking of replacing them and would appreciate any advice on type, brand, etc. Thanks for any advice.

[padlin]

I wouldn't replace them just based on the date, at least not just 4 years, mine were still going strong at 7 years.

[Bobbie54]

You can take them in to an auto parts store for testing and see how well they are taking holding a charge.

[tdf-texas]

If you have an inverter, plug an electric heater into it and see how long it takes to drop the battery voltage to where the inverter shuts off.

That is a reasonable load test to see if your batteries are getting weak and need replacement.

[jadams]

Agree with the other folks. A lot of forum members have reported on getting a long life, multiple years, out of their batteries.

Batteries Plus or a similar service provider will do a battery load test for you to better gauge battery health. Check out youtube for what a load test is all about.

[jadams]

Originally Posted by tdf-texas

If you have an inverter, plug an electric heater into it and see how long it takes to drop the battery voltage to where the inverter shuts off.

That is a reasonable load test to see if your batteries are getting weak and need replacement.

I like this DIY test method. Thank you.