What Is the Peak 200A Battery and How Does It Perform?
The Peak 200A battery, such as the PK12V200AH model, is a 12V lead-acid battery with a 200Ah capacity. Designed for deep-cycle applications, it provides stable power output for solar energy systems, emergency lighting, and off-grid setups. Its maintenance-free design ensures leak-proof operation and long-term reliability, supporting consistent performance under high discharge conditions.
What Are the Key Specifications of the PK12V200AH Battery?
This battery operates at 12V with a 200Ah capacity, delivering up to 200A peak discharge current for short bursts. It features a rugged construction with CCC safety certification, ensuring compatibility with inverters and solar charge controllers. Its lead-calcium alloy grids minimize water loss, enabling a lifespan of 3-5 years under regular cycling conditions.
The PK12V200AH weighs approximately 62kg, making it heavier than lithium counterparts but ideal for stationary installations. Its design includes thick plates (4.7mm) optimized for cyclic durability, with a 25°C operating temperature range. The battery achieves 80% capacity retention after 500 cycles at 50% depth of discharge (DOD). For cold environments, its cold cranking amps (CCA) rating of 800A ensures reliable starts in temperatures as low as -15°C. Users should note the gradual capacity fade beyond 1,000 cycles, requiring proactive replacement planning.
Parameter | Specification |
---|---|
Nominal Voltage | 12V DC |
Capacity (C20) | 200Ah |
Peak Discharge | 200A (5 seconds) |
Terminal Type | M8 stud connectors |
Where Is the Peak 200A Battery Commonly Used?
Primary applications include:
- Solar power storage for residential/commercial systems
- Backup power for fire alarms and emergency lighting
- Telecom infrastructure and RV/marine energy solutions
- Industrial equipment requiring high surge currents
How Does It Compare to Lithium-Ion Alternatives?
While lithium batteries (e.g., 12V 200Ah LiFePO4) offer 10+ year lifespans and 80% depth of discharge, the Peak lead-acid variant provides cost-effective upfront pricing (≈¥1,160) with simpler maintenance. However, lithium models maintain higher efficiency (95% vs. 85%) and tolerate deeper discharges without capacity loss.
Lead-acid batteries like the PK12V200AH exhibit voltage sag under heavy loads, dropping to 10.5V at 200A draws. Lithium alternatives maintain stable voltage (±5%) until depletion. For solar installations, lithium’s 98% round-trip efficiency outperforms lead-acid’s 85%, reducing panel requirements by 15%. However, the Peak battery’s -15°C to 50°C operating range surpasses lithium’s typical 0°C-45°C limits, making it suitable for unheated environments. Cost analysis shows lead-acid achieves lower 10-year costs in low-cycling applications (<150 cycles/year).
Feature | Peak 200Ah AGM | LiFePO4 200Ah |
---|---|---|
Cycle Life (80% DOD) | 500 cycles | 3,500 cycles |
Weight | 62kg | 22kg |
Max Continuous Current | 100A | 200A |
What Maintenance Does the Peak 200A Battery Require?
As a sealed AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery, it requires no water refilling. Users should:
- Keep terminals clean
- Store at 15-25°C
- Recharge promptly after deep discharges
- Perform monthly voltage checks (12.6V+ when fully charged)
“While lithium dominates premium markets, Peak’s 200Ah AGM batteries fill a critical niche for budget-conscious solar installations. Their 200A surge capacity handles motor starts effectively, but users must size systems to keep depth of discharge above 50% for optimal longevity.” – Redway Energy Storage Specialist
FAQ
- Q: Can the PK12V200AH power a 2,000W inverter?
- A: Yes, temporarily. At 12V, 2,000W requires ≈167A. The battery’s 200A surge rating supports this load for short durations (<30 sec), but continuous use should stay below 100A (1,200W).
- Q: Is parallel connection safe for capacity expansion?
- A: Yes, when connecting ≤4 identical batteries using equal-length cables. Ensure all units share similar age and charge levels.
- Q: What charging voltage is optimal?
- A: Use a 3-stage charger: bulk (14.4-14.6V), absorption (14.2-14.4V), float (13.6-13.8V). Avoid exceeding 15V to prevent gassing.