Automotive "short burst" batteries are specifically manufactured to generate the short bursts of energy required to start your engine. After which, the alternator takes over, providing the power to run the vehicle and recharge the slightly discharged battery.

Deep Cycle batteries are constructed to maintain a continuous flow of energy. Some applications which require deep cycle batteries are trolling motors, house lights, stereo systems and motor home accessories. They are designed to endure the frequent, complete discharge and recharge essential these applications. This is called "Deep Cycling".

Anytime you require a battery that has to provide continuous power, you will need a Centennial Deep Cycle Battery.

• Trolling motors, running lights, fish finders and marine accessories.
• Electric starting outboards with no charging system.
• Accessories in RVs, campers or vans.
• Lights and accessories on sail boats and cabin cruisers.
• Battery powered lawn mowers.
• Power packs with 12 volt D.C. inverters.

Deep cycle batteries have a thicker plate design that consists of a higher density active material that will withstand the stress of repetitive cycling and vibration. The grid alloy is specifically formulated to increase the active material's adhesion to the grid. These features, as well as others, provide additional protection from the repeated stress created by deep cycling.

Automotive batteries have a completely different plate design and grid pattern. The thinner plates and standard paste design provide more initial cranking amps, but could never hold up to the rigors that a deep cycle battery is put through. If an automotive battery were cycled in a deep discharge application, it would fail considerably sooner than would a deep cycle battery.

A Centennial Deep Cycle Battery, when properly maintained and charged, should deliver more than 200 deep discharges. Keep your battery clean and free of corrosion. Use baking soda or battery cleaner (available from your Centennial retailer). Flush entirely with water. (A wire brush is sometimes helpful.)

Check the water level frequently, especially before charging. If the level is low, add sufficient distilled water to cover the plates. After charging bring the water level up, if necessary, no higher than the bottom of the vent walls. DO NOT OVERFILL. Distilled water is best for long life, but if unavailable, it is better to use good drinking water than nothing at all. Remember..... if a portion of the plate gets dry, it loses much, if not all, of its capacity.

Follow the suggested charging guidelines.

Be sure the amps, the voltage, and the type of charger match the battery that you are charging. Never overcharge your battery. This can lead to water loss and grid corrosion that can greatly reduce the life of the battery. A charger with an automatic timer is a great idea.

Never "fast charge" or "boost" a deep cycle battery. A slow charge is always best.

Follow the instructions, safety manual, and procedural recommendations on the charger.

Select a charger with a capacity sufficient to fully recharge the battery within 8 - 12hours.

Charging tip: Recharge your battery as soon as possible after use. Allowing it to sit for several days will hamper its recharge acceptance and ultimately, its performance.

If you need to store battery for an extended period of time make sure that you charge it completely.

Store it in a cold place, but not where it will be consistently below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. All batteries discharge naturally, but the lower the temperature, the slower the discharge.

Check the battery every couple of months and recharge if necessary.

• Determine your dimensional limitations.
• Observe the voltage
• Determine the number of cranking amps your electrical system requires.
• Estimate the amount of operational hours you require without recharging.
• See the chart below