From Jalopnik · Beverly Braga · · 1m
Car Battery Labels Explained
Decoding car battery labels: CCA, CA, RC, and Ah ratings explained.
In brief
Decoding car battery labels: CCA, CA, RC, and Ah ratings explained. Car battery labels use CCA for cold starts, CA for warmer conditions, RC for backup power, and Ah for storage capacity. Originally reported by Jalopnik.
Car Battery Labels Explained
Car batteries have labels with abbreviations like CCA, CA, RC, and Ah that indicate performance and capacity.
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)
CCA measures amps a battery delivers at 0 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 seconds while maintaining 7.2 volts.
Cranking Amps (CA)
CA measures amps a battery delivers at 32 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 seconds while maintaining 7.2 volts.
Reserve Capacity (RC)
RC shows how long a battery lasts at 25 amps before dropping below 10.5 volts, crucial for electronics.
Amp Hours (Ah)
Ah indicates total charge storage, varying how long and how much current a battery can supply.
Battery Standards
EPA, SAE, BCI, NFPA, ANSI, and UL set standards for car battery labels and safety requirements.
Here's the gist
Car battery labels use CCA for cold starts, CA for warmer conditions, RC for backup power, and Ah for storage capacity.
