How are lead-acid batteries normally connected when multiple are used to increase capacity?

• A. In series
• B. In parallel
• C. In star configuration
• D. Individually

Answer: (B)

To increase capacity without changing the system voltage, you connect lead-acid batteries in parallel. In a parallel arrangement, all positive terminals are tied together and all negative terminals are tied together, so the bank’s voltage remains that of a single battery. The total capacity, measured in amp-hours, adds up with each battery, meaning you can store and deliver more energy and sustain higher current for a longer period. Connecting batteries in series would raise the voltage instead of capacity, which isn’t what’s needed when you want more runtime at the same voltage. A star configuration isn’t a standard method for battery banks, and using each battery individually doesn’t improve overall capacity.