Why You Should Trust Us on this Guide?
Our basic focus is to become a source of reliable information on RV information as well as give you a detailed guide on the products available. We are here to help you make the best choices with regards to gears, equipment, supplies and other accessories that are needed to help your RV life.
We have a team of experienced reviewers whose sole responsibility is to research on the products available and determine those good enough to be recommended. We are not just regular outdoor enthusiasts but consumers like you too with the hope of making the most of our investment. It is, for this reason, we have put together this website where we get to share our deep knowledge and also experience with the society so that everyone can make an informed decision when it comes to buying gears, appliances, batteries and other devices suitable for recreational vehicles.
With the aid of this guide, we hope that you can compare and contrast and finally come up with the best choice of RV battery.
Types of RV Batteries
To facilitate a good choice with regards to batteries, there is a need to know the different types of these batteries that are available. It is also important to know what your rig requires. Generally, RV batteries are preferable because they can deal with repetitive deep recharging and discharging.
You may also want to consider lithium-ion batteries as they are not only reliable but lightweight too. It can deliver constant power and serve as power storage. Its storage capacity is, however, dependent on its weight and size. There is also the AGM, flooded cell batteries as well as gel battery.
Flooded Battery
For flooded battery, though available at a low price, it’s also a good source of power. However, it falls under the wet cells group which requires both regular and periodic cycling of recharging and discharging. It will require more maintenance during hot temperatures and also regular terminal cleaning as well.
Gel Battery
Gel battery, on the other hand, does not require as much maintenance as a flooded battery. It is also more long-lasting than flooded batteries. This type of battery is characterized by jelled electrolytes; this is to prevent spilling even when tipped. It also has a deep cycle type that can be mounted on its side, this is well recognized for its fiberglass matting which is around the lead plates. It also features matting that works well when soaked in an electrolyte.
Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM)
AGM battery is the most expensive but also the most durable and maintenance-free battery. Hence, you may want to consider this battery if you are in search of a product that’s durable and maintenance-free.
How to Pick the Best RV Battery?
To ensure you select the best RV battery, some factors must be considered. Some of these factors include:
The capacity of the Battery:
This is the amount of current a battery can deliver over a certain period. For instance, a battery with a capacity of 100Ah is capable of delivering 100A of current for an hour. Therefore, when buying a battery, it is important to look out for one with a high capacity.
Depth of Discharge
This is also another important factor to consider when purchasing a battery. The depth of discharge is always represented in percentage and shows the exact amount of power being discharged by the battery.
If you plan on purchasing a lead-acid battery, then it’s important to note that the life cycle and the depth of the discharge are similar. Generally, it should be noted that the deeper the individual cycles, the fewer cycles the battery will provide.
Hence, it is important that while looking for an ideal RV battery to purchase, you go for one with a depth of discharge that can optimize its life cycle when adhered to strictly.
Charging Mode
It is also important to take note of how the RV battery is charging. Questions like will you be using a generator, a shore power, or solar power when charging your battery should be asked and answered.
While it’s ok to combine the three sources, you can also decide to use a charge controller or a smart charger if you do not have any of the power sources mentioned above. This device allows you to use a charging profile depending on the type of battery purchased. This, therefore, enables you supply the right amount of charge and at the right time too.
That’s not all, the charge controller also helps to adjust the voltage and current and since this is done automatically, your battery is always protected and is also possible regardless of the power source.
Build of Battery
It is also important to check out the sturdiness and build of the battery you intend to purchase. Without a rugged build, the battery will collapse before time as it won’t be able to withstand the vibrations and shocks it will be subjected to.
Hence, go for a battery with shock-resistant abilities and also one with the ability to withstand vibrations else you may spend money on repairs.
How to Charge a Deep Cycle Battery Properly?
There are different ways by which deep cycle batteries can be charged. Some of the charging methods include:
Charging with Solar Panels: In this method, the battery is simply connected to a solar panel. However, before using this charging method, it is important to take note of the number of times it would take the solar panel to charge the battery. It is also important to check out the right wattage for the charger, but it will be advisable to use a charge controller to cut off further charging once the battery is full.
Charging with Generator: It is advisable to charge the generator fully before using it to recharge your battery. In recharging your battery, it’s important to determine the exact battery location to check if there are cracks or bulges. If there are none, then reconnect the RV battery. Ensure all appliances are unplugged; this will maximize and also shorten the charging time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do RV batteries last?
A: We cannot give a definite answer to this as the lifespan of batteries differ from one battery to the other regardless of where it’s purchased from. This is because the lifespan of a battery is mostly dependent on usage and maintenance. Nonetheless, you should read through the instructions on the manual and follow through to ensure your battery lasts as long as possible.
Q: Does RV battery charge while driving?
A: Yes it does. It’s easy to charge an RV battery while driving. However, you must ensure that some factors have been met first. This includes the availability of cables, plugs and a voltage-controlled relay.
To charge RV battery while driving, prepare the VCR to begin the process. The VCR will disconnect and thereafter parallel the auxiliary. Depending on the current level, the VCR will then close the relay and then make your truck as well as your rig to be parallel. Once done, it will open the relay when the vehicle’s engine is put on.
Q: Do RV batteries charge when plugged into shore power?
A: Yes it does. With the camper hooked to the shore power, it will automatically begin to charge the RV battery while also running your electrical appliances at the same time. This is done by sending power from the converter/inverter which then transports the power to the 12v batteries. It also sends it to the 120 VAC breaker panel.
Q: How long will a deep cycle battery run a TV?
A: A 100 amp-hour deep cycle battery with an inverter is capable of powering a large TV of 50-watt for up to six hours and one minute. It is also capable of powering a 20-watt TV for about fifty-six hours (just until the battery is fully discharged).
Q: How long can an inverter run a deep cycle battery?
A: When an inverter is being operated with a deep cycle battery, turn on the engine every thirty to sixty minutes then let it run for about ten minutes to recharge the battery.
Conclusion
Having reviewed the best products and answered some pressing questions you may have with regards to RV batteries, we hope that this article has been able to help you make informed decisions.
Don’t get stranded by the roadside when the one of the Best RV Battery from this article can take away that worry. Go ahead and make your choice, you will be glad you did.
