Re: [a/s] 6volt vs. 12 volt

[Ebert Steele <k5cad@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Randall,

I think you mean "series" not "parallel".  When two batteries are
wired in parallel the voltage remains the same. Two 6 volt
batteries must be wired in series to be used in a 12v system.

Jay,

The most commonly available 6 volt battery is Golf Cart battery.
When multiple batteries are used in a system, series is preferred
over parallel. 

Batteries in series tend to act as a single battery. Each battery
in parallel circuit will behave differently on both discharge and
recharge. All of which leads to lower performance, lower amp/hour
ratings, and battery life. 

And while this is fundamentally true, in the real world, other
considerations such as battery availability, storage space
available, costs, level of maintenance the system will get,  all
impact the decision.  

Go to: http://www.rvsolar.com/batteries.htm

Regards,

Ebert Steele