Tubular Battery (Wet Cell) Vs Lithium Battery: Which Is Better & Lasts Longer?

Choosing between a tubular (wet cell) non-free maintenance battery and a lithium battery depends on several factors and the specific application you have in mind. Both types of batteries are strong and effective in storing energy for inverter and solar applications; their difference lies in their makeup.

Tubular solar batteries use lead-acid chemistry and are capable of deep discharge (discharging and recharging repeatedly) and are durable. Batteries from reputable brands can last for many years. However, tubular batteries, more like the conventional dry cell batteries, take up space and might be a source of concern where space is limited.

Lithium batteries are known for their high energy density. It can store a large amount of energy in a relatively small package, hence taking up very little space. With the drive towards renewable energy, lithium batteries have a wide range of uses, especially in electric vehicles.

Just like tubular batteries, lithium batteries also have a long lifespan and a high number of charge-discharge cycles. However, care must be taken to buy from a reputable brand.

In addition, lithium batteries charge at a faster rate and are very suitable in Nigeria, where the power supply is erratic. It also has a high charge and discharge efficiency, a high number of charge cycles, and a better depth of discharge (DoD).

A major advantage lithium batteries have over tubular or wet cell batteries is that lithium batteries are maintenance-free, while tubular batteries require the recommended demineralized water to be above the recommended level, as seen on the gauge.

Don’t worry, this is not something you have to check or do every now and then. Depending on the battery’s usage, it can go for several months before it requires a topping of distilled water.

Distilled water is very cheap, and it ensures the battery’s usage and performance.

Though lithium batteries don’t need to worry about this, they are much costlier than tubular batteries. Another drawback of lithium batteries is that their installation and pairing to an inverter/solar charge controller must strictly follow the manufacturer's instructions. The absence of a battery management system (BMS) can pose a serious fire risk.

So if you have that extra space and do not care about some little rust and spills, then tubular batteries can win you over. But if you are space-conscious and want a fancy-looking and energy-packed single power bank, say hello lithium!