Complete Guide to Battery Size Chart
The correct battery size is important for the longevity and optimal performance of the battery. Also, the right prevents damage to the electrical components of your car or device. When replacing batteries from any device, car, RV, or boat, always confirm the compatibility to ensure safety and optimal performance. Therefore, you must understand the standard Battery Group Size Chart. The size chart indicates the battery polarity and dimensions such as width, height, and length. Every number on the chart corresponds to a size set. This article explores various aspects of the battery size chart and a guide to choosing the best battery size for your applications.
Standardization of Battery Sizes
Standardizing battery sizes makes your life better in various ways, which you probably take for granted. For instance, if your flashlight uses AA batteries and they die, you can easily find a replacement for the dead ones. You can only replace the AA batteries with similar type, dimensions, and size. You cannot use AAA even if the voltage is similar.
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) publishes battery and other electrical technologies standards. Non-rechargeable batteries are classified under IEC standard 60086. Rechargeable batteries such as automotive batteries are classified under the IEC 60095 standard.
Below is a standard battery size chart indicating the size, shape, and voltage:
|
Battery Name |
Battery Shape |
Battery Size |
Battery Voltage |
|
AA |
Cylinder |
L 50 mm x D 14.2 mm |
1.5 V |
|
AAA |
Cylinder |
L 44.5 mm x D 10.5 mm |
1.5 V |
|
AAAA |
Cylinder |
L 42 mm x D 8 mm |
1.5 V |
|
C |
Cylinder |
L 46 mm x D 26 mm |
1.5 V |
|
D |
Cylinder |
L 58 mm x D 33 mm |
1.5 V |
|
9V |
Rectangle |
H 48.5 mm x L 26.5 mm x W 17.5mm |
9 V |
|
123 |
Cylinder |
L 34.5 mm x D 17 mm |
3 V |
|
CR2 |
Cylinder |
L 27.5 mm x D 16 mm |
3 V |
|
N |
Cylinder |
L 30.2 mm x D 12 mm |
1.5 V |
Battery Sizes for Cars, RVs and Boats
The battery size for your car, RV, or boat will affect its performance and capacity. To accurately determine the battery group size for your application, check the manufacturer recommendations. Also, you can seek an expert’s assistance to determine the right battery group sizes for your car, boat, or RV. Check the battery sizes for cars, RVs, and boats discussed below.
Battery Sizes for Cars and RVs
The automotive battery sizes are usually larger than household battery sizes. Note that, although some batteries may be equal in size, you cannot use them interchangeably. Consult a manufacturer to help you choose the right battery size for your vehicle or RV.
A wrong choice of battery size can damage the car’s electric system or lead to the dismal performance of the car. A battery size chart enables you to choose the right battery, depending on the car’s specifications. Here is an automotive battery size chart according to the Battery Council International (BCI) standards.
|
Battery Group Size |
Length (Inches) |
Width (Inches) |
Height (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
24 |
10.25 |
6.81 |
8.88 |
|
27 |
12.06 |
6.81 |
9.34 |
|
34 |
10.25 |
6.81 |
9.43 |
|
35 |
9.06 |
6.87 |
8.87 |
|
H6 (48) |
12. 06 |
6.87 |
7.56 |
|
H8 (49) |
15 |
6.87 |
7.36 |
|
65 |
12.06 |
7.5 |
7.56 |
|
78 |
10.25 |
7.06 |
7.68 |
Battery Sizes for Boats
When choosing the right battery size for boats, you must first evaluate the size of the battery tray, the capacity, and if there are any modifications you want to make to the voltage. Other important things to consider when selecting a battery size for your boat include, the performance of the vessel, weight requirements, electrical capacity, and the physical dimensions.
Usually, boat batteries come in Groups 24, 27, and 31. You can choose the right group size depending on the specific dimensions, required battery voltage, and capacity of the boat. Therefore, when choosing a battery size for your vessel, you must consider the specific power requirements of the boat. The wrong battery size will affect the safety and performance of the boat.
Here is a battery size chart for marine applications and boats:
|
Group Battery Size |
Length |
Width |
Height |
|
24 |
10.25 |
6.81 |
8.88 |
|
27 |
12.06 |
6.81 |
8.88 |
|
31 |
13.00 |
6.72 |
9.44 |
|
8D |
20.75 |
11.13 |
9.88 |
What Are the Battery Group Sizes?
The battery group sizes are established and published by the Battery Council International (BCI). The group sizes indicate the accurate physical dimensions of the battery. The grouping and classification enable you to easily identify the right battery when replacing an old one. For instance, if your old car battery is Group 27, you can purchase any new Group 27 battery from any vendor to replace the old one.
The battery group sizes ensure compatibility of batteries for various uses by considering the dimensions and that the terminal placement aligns with the space available in a particular application or device. The compatibility ensures that the battery fits perfectly and it does not shift in its slot.
Understanding the battery group sizes is important to achieving compatibility and safety. If the battery does not fit in its slot, it will keep on moving or shifting, which can lead to short-circuiting, leaks, and damage. Therefore, ensure you are choosing the right group size for the battery application.
Here’s a chart indicating the most popular battery group sizes and their dimensions.
|
Group Size |
L x W x H (cm) |
L x W x H (Inches) |
|
Group 24 Batteries |
26 x 17.3 x 22.5 |
10.25 x 6.8125 x 8.875 |
|
Group 27 Batteries |
30.6 x 17.3 x 22.5 |
12.0625 x 6.8125 x 8.875 |
|
Group 31 Batteries |
33 x 17.3 x 24 |
13 x 6.8125 x 9.4375 |
|
Group 34 Batteries |
26 x 17.3 x 20 |
10.25 x 6.8125 x 7.875 |
|
Group 35 Batteries |
23 x 17.5 x 22.5 |
9.0625 x 6.875 x 8.875 |
|
Group 51 and 51R Batteries |
23.8 x 12.9 x 22.3 |
9.374 x 5.0625 x 8.8125 |
|
Group 65 Batteries |
30.6 x 19 x 19.2 |
12.0625 x 7.5 x 7.5625 |
|
Group 78 Batteries |
26 x 17.9 x 18.6 |
10.25 x 7.0625 x 7.3125 |
- Group 24: Suitable for smaller cars and middle-sized sedans.
- Group 35: The batteries are commonly used for sedans, compact-sized cars, and light trucks.
- Group (H6) 48: This category of batteries is recommended for SUVS, large sedans, and trucks.
- Group (H8) 48: Recommended for larger automobiles with high electrical demands, such as trucks, luxury cars, and SUVs.
- Group 51R: Suitable for smaller cars with smaller compartments for batteries.
- Group 65: Recommended for bigger vehicles with greater electricity demands such as SUVs, trucks, or performance cars.
- Group 78: Suitable for use in larger automobiles such as heavier trucks, SUVs, and larger sedans.
How to Read the Battery Size Accurately
Three major categories help you determine the accurate battery size for your application.
- Battery Group Numbers- The numbers show the physical dimensions of the battery. It helps you choose the battery that perfectly fits in its compartment and aligns with the cable connections.
- Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)- Cold Cranking Amps measures the ability of a battery to start the engine in extremely cold climates. A high CCA rating indicates good performance during cold temperatures. BCI group sizes usually have a minimum CCA rating.
- Position of the Terminals- Another method of determining the group size of a battery is the positioning of the terminals. The terminals are either placed at the top or the side of the battery.
- Reverse Capacity- RC measures the minutes that a fully charged battery is capable of delivering a load before the voltage drops.
Choosing the Right Battery for Your System
When choosing the right battery size for your applications or systems, you must consider several factors. Some of the key factors to consider are the form factors, voltage, capacity, power needs, and your budget. Also, before purchasing any battery, calculate your power needs using this formula:
Power (watts) = Voltage (volts) x Current (amps)
Other important considerations before you purchase the battery for your system are differentiating the secondary and primary battery types, calculating your energy requirements, assessing the temperature range, ensuring voltage compatibility, and the battery capacity.
The battery’s form factor relates to its physical configurations and dimensions, in relation to electrical specifications. Although the battery’s form factor does not directly determine the battery’s compatibility with a system, it is important to verify whether the form factor aligns with the size and shape of the system.
Choosing the right battery size ensures optimal performance and longevity of your system. Additionally, you should understand that every device has unique power needs and space requirements. Therefore, what works for one system, will not necessarily work for another. You can consult with a professional to help you choose the best battery size for your system.
Conclusion
The battery sizes come in various group sizes depending on the type, class, and purpose. The most common battery sizes are AA, AAA, C, and D among others. When choosing the right battery size for any application, ensure that you check the battery specifications on your device. You must choose the right battery size for your device for safety and efficient performance. Use the charts above to help you determine the right battery size for your car, RV, or boat among other applications.
FAQs
1. What is the meaning of the sizing numbers on the battery group?
The figures, letters, and dimensions on the battery group chart indicate the physical dimensions and the terminal configuration of the battery. The size numbers ensure the compatibility of the battery and the vehicle.
2. What will happen if I use another battery size not recommended for my car?
You should only use the battery size recommended by the car manufacturer. Wrong battery size will cause compatibility problems and may damage the car’s electrical system.
3. How can I ensure the battery fits well on my car based on the size chart?
Use the size chart to check the group size recommended by the car manufacturer. For compatibility, ensure the terminal types and dimensions match.
4. Can I use the same size battery however with a higher voltage?
No. A higher voltage battery is not recommended and will damage your device. Ensure you only use the recommended battery for your device or car.
