Are There Different Types of Riding Mower Batteries?

Wet Cell

• Wet-cell lawn mower batteries discharge electrolytes through a chemical solution and reaction. The solution is typically a combination of water and sulfuric acid. When electricity is connected to the battery, a chemical reaction between the solution and the lead terminal creates electricity that flows through the connecting wire. You can recharge your wet-cell mower battery by adding water to the cells and measuring the charge with a hydrometer.

AGM

• AGM stands for "absorbed glass matt," a term that describes the battery’s construction. These are considered dry-cell batteries. AGM batteries keep suspended electrolytes close to the discharge/recharge plates, making them more efficient for long-term operation. AGM batteries are more versatile and can be used on machines other than your mower. They are deep-cycle batteries that do not provide a lot of up-front power but will give your mower long-lasting power. AGM batteries are becoming more common than other battery types

Gel Cell

• The gel-cell type of battery also uses suspended electrolytes for electrical discharge. However, these are suspended in a silica additive, so it is much like a wet-cell battery. Gel-cell batteries do not require as much voltage for recharge as AGM batteries. However, they are more sensitive to the recharge methods you use. Review the battery owner’s manual for specific requirements if you have a gel-cell battery.

Battery Ratings

• You must also consider additional ratings on the battery when choosing the right one for your riding mower. Most mower batteries must have a 12-volt capacity. The amp-hour rating measures how many amps it delivers per hour. The CCA rating stands for "cold-cranking amps." Check your engine owner’s manual for the minimum CCA. The "reserve capacity" rating indicates how long your fully charged battery puts out 25 amps until it drops below 10.5 volts in 80 degrees F.