Why Does My 12V Battery Read 18V? 

Your 12V battery should not read 18V under normal conditions—but there’s a logical explanation. If you’ve just tested your car, motorcycle, or solar battery and got a shockingly high voltage reading, you’re not alone. Many DIYers and technicians encounter this puzzling scenario, often assuming their multimeter is broken or the battery is dangerously overcharged. But … Read more

Are Walmart Car Batteries the Same as DieHard? 

Are Walmart car batteries the same as DieHard? The short answer is no they differ significantly in performance, technology, and reliability. As an automotive expert with over a decade of experience testing batteries, I’ll reveal why choosing the right brand matters for your vehicle’s longevity. Many drivers assume all car batteries are interchangeable, but cutting … Read more

Battery Cable Diameter Chart: Complete Sizing Guide

Choosing the correct battery cable diameter isn’t optional it’s critical for safety and performance. Many assume thicker cables are always better, but that’s not necessarily true. Undersized cables overheat and waste energy, while oversized ones add unnecessary cost and bulk. Whether you’re upgrading a car audio system, installing solar panels, or troubleshooting marine electronics, the … Read more

Are Lead Acid Accumulators Used in Homes?

Yes, lead acid accumulators are used in homes—but not as commonly as you might think. While these rugged, time-tested batteries power everything from cars to industrial backup systems, their role in residential energy storage is more nuanced. You might assume they’re obsolete, but they still offer surprising advantages for specific home applications—if you know how … Read more

2/0 Battery Cable Amp Rating for 24V Systems

Wondering if 2/0 battery cable can handle your 24V system’s power demands? The answer is yes—but only under the right conditions. As solar energy and off-grid power systems surge in popularity, selecting the correct cable size is critical to avoid overheating, voltage drops, or even fire hazards. Many assume thicker cables always mean better performance, … Read more

Renogy Battery Isolator VSR: Installation & Setup Guide

Upgrading your vehicle’s electrical system with a Renogy Battery Isolator VSR unlocks reliable power for accessories without draining your starter battery—but improper installation can lead to failures. Many assume wiring a voltage-sensitive relay (VSR) is complex, yet with the right guidance, it’s a straightforward process. Whether you’re powering a camper, marine rig, or off-grid setup, … Read more

Battery Construction: Positive Plates, Negative Plates & Electrolyte

Ever wondered what’s inside a battery and how it powers everything from your phone to electric cars? Batteries may seem like simple energy boxes, but their construction is a marvel of engineering. At their core, they rely on three critical components: positive plates, negative plates, and electrolyte—each playing a vital role in storing and releasing … Read more

What Should a 12V Battery Read When Running?

A healthy 12V battery should read 13.7–14.7 volts when the engine is running. But here’s the catch: many drivers assume their battery is fine if the car starts, only to face sudden failures later. Modern vehicles rely on precise electrical systems, and even a slight voltage drop can hint at hidden problems—from failing alternators to … Read more

13/16 Battery Cable Size Guide: Amp Rating & Applications

Choosing the right battery cable size isn’t just about compatibility—it’s about safety, efficiency, and avoiding costly failures. While many assume thicker cables always mean better performance, the 13/16 battery cable strikes a unique balance between current capacity and flexibility for specialized applications. Best Battery Cables for High-Current Applications WindyNation 13/16 AWG Battery Cable (Model: WNDBAT-13/16-25) … Read more

Battery 123 vs 123A: What’s the Difference?

Are Battery 123 and 123A the same? No—they’re not interchangeable despite their similar names. If you’ve ever grabbed the wrong battery in a rush, you know the frustration of a device that won’t power on. Batteries like the 123 and 123A look nearly identical, but subtle differences in voltage, size, and chemistry can make or … Read more