PowerSwitch

Hi I'm new to the forum.

My self and my family are moving to rural french location with a few acres to live the dream of self sufficiency. I plan to be off grid but having problems seeking batteries suitable. The cost of new batteries is prohibitive especially after being robbed this year another reason to leave for the countryside.

Thankyou for reading this and hope to read your comments soon

Jackal

Secondhand batteries are worth considering, but unless virtualy free, should be carefully tested.

The cheaper types of lead acid battery only have a reliable life of about 3 years, they may last up to 6 years, but with declining reliability.

Vehicle SLI (Starting, Lighting, Ignition) batteries are not suitable.

Sources of secondhand batteries include companies who service large UPS systems or fork lift trucks.
The batteries used in such applications are often replaced as a precaution when some useful life remains.

How big a battery are you considering ?
And at what voltage ?

Bigger is better , within reason.
12 volts is far preferable for small systems, but higher voltages are better for larger systems.

Remember that all batteries in a battery bank should be same type and age.
Large numbers of small batteries tend to be less reliable than smaller numbers of larger batteries.

Batteries are a relatively safe technology, but by no means risk free, and I would recomend a study of this thread
http://www.powerswitch.org.uk/forum/vie ... php?t=5455

Don't forget the guys who make the road signs - the ones with a huge solar panel mounted on a trailer. Do you have them in England/France? There's a manufacturer about 20 kms from me.