Going Remote: 7 Advantages of Using AGM Batteries for Remote Locations

When your batteries are in an isolated location, reliable power and near-zero maintenance are a necessity, not a luxury.

Whether you're living off-grid, managing a remote hospital or cellphone tower, or overseeing mobile surveillance units – even minor interruptions could have dire consequences. From the loss of communication, halting critical medical services, disrupting education, or losing electricity at home.

Meanwhile, some batteries die early with infrequent maintenance. And higher-maintenance batteries can cost a fortune if you travel long distances to inspect them.

That’s where AGM batteries come in. Their unique design includes boron-silicate glass mats sandwiched between electrolyte-soaked plates. And that (and other engineering characteristics) provides seven benefits for remote systems.

7 Advantages of AGM Batteries for Isolated Locations:

Near-Zero Maintenance

AGM batteries can operate for extended periods without frequent maintenance. This can be a lifesaver wherever routine battery checks and maintenance present logistical challenges and high costs. Their sealed design eliminates regular watering by recombining oxygen and hydrogen during charging. Remember, though: Even "maintenance-free" batteries like AGM (and lithium-ion) still require periodic inspection for optimal life, particularly in extreme temperatures.

Medium-High Energy Density

AGM batteries store more power by volume than many other batteries – because they have more energy-storing metal plates, tightly compressed together. But their energy density isn’t excessively high enough to cause safety issues. (See below.)

Safety

Safety is paramount, especially when you can’t access batteries easily. AGM batteries excel here because of their spill-proof design. Furthermore, AGM batteries pose a near-zero risk of thermal runaway. By comparison, lithium-ion batteries have heightened thermal runaway risks due to their higher energy density – and these temperature increases can cascade, leading to fires or explosions.

Temperature tolerance

AGM batteries’ performance remains sold across various temperatures, making them a good choice for harsher conditions. For instance, AGM batteries can be charged from -4°F - 122°F (-20°C - 50°C) (source: Battery University BU-410: Charging at High and Low Temperatures). Compare that with Lithium-ion’s more limited charging range of 32°F - 113°F (0°C to 45°C). NOTE: All batteries perform best around 77°F (25°C) – and excessive heat can damage any batteries.

Value

The initial manufacturing cost of AGM batteries might be higher due to their advanced design. But their long life, lower maintenance needs, and superior reliability often lead to superior ROI compared to flooded lead-acid. And AGM batteries offer excellent lifetime value, usually just a fraction of the cost of lithium-ion batteries.

Sustainability

AGM batteries are more recycled than aluminum can – 99%, according to the U.S. EPA (source: Facts and Figures about Materials, Waste and Recycling from the US EPA, https://www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/advancing-sustainable-materials-management). Learn more about battery sustainability here.

Reliability

AGM batteries are trusted in applications ranging from off-grid living to remote schools, hospitals, military bases, and cell phone towers. The robust construction and reliability of AGM batteries make them invaluable where failure is not an option.

Of course, AGM batteries perform even better when you can check their health.

The missing piece of the battery puzzle: Remote battery monitoring

Battery problems could build and cascade for months if your batteries operate remotely. That can lead to early battery failure – and catastrophic downtime.

That’s why Master Electrician Mark Snyder, owner of Mark Snyder Electric, has embraced remote monitoring.

Mark is an independent system designer and installer with over 30,000 renewable energy installations – including his off-grid ranch in California.

And he’s laid out a new approach to battery health that helps you avoid onsite visits and unpaid battery work. You can read the entire article here – and learn about everything from the latest battery monitoring to key electrical codes and best practices.

"How do I switch to AGM batteries – or find out if they’re right for my system?"

Changing operations can be daunting – especially if you’re managing many different systems, teams, and types of equipment.

But now, you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

Whether you're considering AGM batteries or want to learn more about energy storage options, our team of experts can provide a comprehensive 'Remote Energy Storage Audit.' With this audit, your Crown Battery energy storage consultant can: 

• Assess your current setup and energy needs
• Reveal areas where you can lower your energy usage or operating costs
• Offer tailored advice
• Educate you about what to look for in high-quality AGM batteries and whether they’re the right fit for your application
• Show you how switching to AGM batteries can improve your operations – including potential cost savings, the pros and cons of different options, and, most importantly, ensuring efficient energy storage.
• Boost reliability.

"I’m relieved I have a battery company that has a real depth of experience and such a dependable product.” - Mark Snyder

"I have a 24-year-old Crown battery bank that powers my off-grid ranch. I went with Crown Battery because, number one, they’re reliable. I’m living proof.” 

When you apply for a Remote Energy Storage Audit, you pay nothing, with zero pressure. We can afford this for two reasons: 1) We invest heavily in training and engineering, rather than marketing. And 2) we’re betting you’ll choose Crown Battery.

Interested in getting started? Click here to apply for your complimentary Remote Energy Storage Audit today!