12V or 24V: Which Battery System is Best for You?

Batteries have now become the most important part of our day-to-day life. They help us run appliances or devices we use in routine, such as refrigerators, light bulbs, microwave ovens, mobile phones, laptops, digital cameras, and the list continues. In addition, batteries are the key components of electric vehicles, boats, and RVs.

Usually, we don't think much about the battery voltage, but when it comes to working with DC power systems for off-grid applications, boats, or RVs, we need to make an informed decision between 12V vs 24V battery systems.

Understanding the clear difference between a 12V vs 24V system is crucial to achieving enhanced performance and better efficiency and saving costs. Read more to understand the key differences between both battery systems.

What is the voltage required for vehicles, RVs, and boats?

Except for exceptions, vehicles, boats, and RVs usually come with 12V electrical systems. If 12V is a commonly used battery system, why think of 12V vs 24V? Is this what you have in mind? If so, let's explore it further.

In case you don't know, the electrical pressure that pushes current to flow through the electrical system is called voltage. Vehicles, RVs, or boats that use 12V or 24V systems are mostly labeled with the voltage requirements.

Is your electrical system labeled with 12V or 24V? Are you wondering what exactly they are? Well, a 12V system delivers 12 volts when a nominal load is attached, whereas a 24V system supplies 24 volts to run specific appliances or devices.

Do you want to get into the specifics of why most cars or vehicles use 12V electrical systems? The reason behind this fact is that they are equipped with devices or equipment that run on 12 volts, such as the ignition system, lighting, and starter. The nominal voltage of a 12V battery is 12 volts. It can be slightly lower or higher depending on the load and state of charge.

On the other hand, 24V battery systems are used in big vehicles, such as buses and larger trucks, because of their high power requirements. Some RVs and larger boats can also use 24V systems.

How to build a 24V system?

A system that delivers 24 volts under nominal load is called a 24V system. You can build a 24V battery in two different ways. The simplest way is to buy a 24-volt battery, whereas connecting two 12V batteries in series is the other doable option. Let's look at both options in detail.

What is a 24-volt battery?

A 24-volt battery delivers 24V electrical power. Though it is not as common as regular 12-volt batteries, it offers many benefits. It has a more compact structure than using multiple 12V batteries. It uses wires with smaller diameters, which results in installation cost reduction. Moreover, a 24V battery provides more power than its 12V counterpart, which makes it ideal for high-power uses. Furthermore, a 24-volt battery wastes less power.

How are 12V batteries connected in series?

When two or more batteries are connected in a series, voltages add up and flow through a single electrical path. If you make a series connection of two 12V batteries, the total voltage will be 24V (2x12V). Here's how you can connect two batteries in series to build a 24V system.

1. Wire the positive (+) terminal of the first 12V battery with the negative (-) terminal of the second 12V battery.
2. Connect the remaining positive and negative terminals of both batteries with an appliance or device you want to run or charge with a 24V battery system, as shown below.

Batteries above 2V are built with a series connection of multiple cells. Even 12V and 9V batteries (frequently used in toys and smoke detectors) are made up of multiple cells.

Key differences between 12V and 24V battery systems

Now that you know the voltage requirements of vehicles, boats, and RVs and how to build a 24V system. It is time to go through the potential factors that create major differences between 12V and 24V battery systems. Let's explore a few common factors.

1. Power output

Output power is the main parameter that makes a 24V system different from a 12V system. You can get more power from a 24-volt system than a 12-volt battery system. This thing makes 24V systems an ideal option for running high-power devices or appliances.

2. Energy efficiency

Since 24-volt systems deliver more power than 12-volt battery systems, they draw less current for the same amount of output power. This is why they produce less heat. As a result, less power is wasted. Less heat prevents the system from overheating and extends its lifecycle. Therefore, a 24V system is more efficient than a 12V system.

3. Wiring complexity

Wiring complexity largely depends on the system's voltage. Wiring in a 12V system can be more complex for multiple batteries than a 24V system. In contrast, 24-volt systems are simple to install for larger setups.

4. Cost

When comparing 12V vs 24V battery systems, both the initial and long-term costs matter. If we talk about the initial cost, 24V systems are costlier than 12-volt battery systems because 24V batteries are expensive and harder to find. On the other hand, 24V systems become cost-effective for providing long-term power solutions.

Let's look at the table below for a quick and better understanding.

Characteristic	24V system	12V system
Power output	Ideal for power needs above 3,000W	Good for power needs below 3,000W
Energy efficiency	More efficient	Less efficient
Wiring complexity	Simple	Complex
Cost	Expensive but cost-effective for long-term purposes	Affordable

If you want to run a small boat, a 12V 100Ah battery will be enough. In comparison, a 24V battery will be required to power up a larger boat. Similarly, most vehicles use components that run on a 12V battery system.

12V vs. 24V systems: Pros and cons

Now, you are well familiar with 12V and 24V battery systems. Both systems have different applications and offer many advantages, as listed below.

12V system benefits

Various benefits a 12V system can offer are as follows.

• The installation or initial cost of 12V systems is affordable because 12-volt batteries are cost-effective and easy to find on the market.
• 12-volt batteries are more compatible with most vehicles. They are considered a great choice for small electrical systems.
• A 12-volt battery system is simpler than a 24V system. 12-volt batteries are smaller in size and are easier to install. Most installers are well familiar with installing a 12V battery system.

24V system benefits

Below is a list of advantages a 24-volt battery system offers.

• A 24-volt system provides more voltage and draws less current for the same amount of power. A 24V system is more energy efficient than a 12V system due to lower power losses.
• 24V battery systems are ideal for high-power systems and heavy-duty applications, such as industrial equipment and larger vehicles.
• A 24-volt system is more scalable than a 12-volt battery system, especially for future expansions and high-power needs.

Drawbacks of 12V vs 24V battery systems

The currents in 12V systems are higher (double than in a 24V system), which is why they need massive wiring to pull large loads. To run high-power appliances (such as inverters), big cables are required for 12V batteries.

If you use a 24V battery in an application where some appliances run on 12V, you will have to reduce the voltage level to 12V by using a converter. It is considered a downside of 24V systems.

When should I use a 12V or 24V system?

Comparing a 12V vs 24V system, you get to know that both perform well in different conditions. All you need to know is your power requirements. Once you know your power needs, you can better decide on which system to use.

If your power requirements are less than 3,000 watts, a 12V battery system will be enough to fulfill your needs. In the case of above 3,000W power needs, you will need a 24V battery system. To get high power in the long run, 24-volt systems offer more benefits than downsides.

If you are looking for a perfect battery system for your solar panels, try a 24V system because it is more efficient than a 12-volt system. For example, a 50A charge controller can be attached to up to 1,400 watts of PV panels with a 24-volt battery. In contrast, the same controller can only be connected to solar panels of up to 700 watts with a 12V battery.

Do you need a battery system for smaller setups, such as cabins or RVs? If so, consider a 12V system as a viable option. To run more types of electrical equipment, 24V systems perform better. If your power needs are higher than 6,000 watts, a 48V system will be a decent choice to go with.

Which is better: 12V or 24V systems?

Now, we have learned enough about 12V and 24V systems. You are well familiar with where both systems perform better. Therefore, you can now make an informed decision based on the information you have.

If you are looking for a solution that is affordable to install, a 12V system should be your number one choice. If you need a system with lower wiring costs and enhanced safety, a 24-volt system will provide you with the ultimate solution.

Generally, 12V battery systems are the perfect choice for low-power applications, whereas 24V systems are considered ideal for heavy-duty applications. If you have specific power needs, be sure to consult professionals before you choose a 12V or 24V system.

FAQs about 12V and 24V battery systems

Will a 24V battery last longer than a 12V?

Yes, a 24-volt battery can last longer than your 12-volt battery. It can offer double the backup time than a 12V battery. A 12-volt battery lasts between 3 and 5 years, whereas a 24V battery can last between 5 and 6 years.

Can I convert a 12V system to 24V?

Yes, you can convert a 12-volt system into a 24-volt system. There are two different approaches for this particular conversion. You can connect two 12V batteries in series to make a 24V system. Another way is to step up the voltage from 12V to 24V by using a converter.

How do I determine the right battery system for my needs?

To choose the right battery system, you will have to know your load requirements, the backup time needed, battery capacity, battery voltage, number of batteries, and applications.

Conclusion

The major differences between 12V vs 24V battery systems are output power, efficiency, safety, affordability, scalability, and wiring complexity. To get enough backup power during outages or for off-grid applications, you should choose the right battery system based on efficiency and application.

If you want to set up a battery system in your home, office, or workplace, be sure to evaluate your power requirements and consult professionals to make a worthy decision.