What’s the best deep cycle battery for your RV? You might think you’ll never need to know, but it’s important to make sure that your electrical system is reliable. A weak battery can really affect your life on the road. Here are some of our favorite batteries and how they compare.
What is the Best RV Deep Cycle Battery?
To decide on the absolute best RV deep cycle battery, we have examined dozens of deep-cycle batteries for RV and reviews left by real users who bought and used them. Based on what they genuinely shared and experienced, we have shortlisted the top 8 RV deep cycle batteries for you to consider, including their most important features, in order for you to make an informed decision.
On top of that, to make it easier for you, we have also compiled a list of critical things and frequently asked questions (FAQs) to consider before purchasing deep-cycle batteries for RV. You can find later further down in the article. So without further ado, here’s introducing the best RV deep cycle battery.
1. Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery 12V
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Price:     (fewer  = cheaper)Weight: 63.9 Pounds (29 kg) Size: 13.1 x 8.6 x 6.9 Inches (33.3 x 21.8 x 17.5 cm) Voltage: 12 Volts Battery Type: Deep-Cycle Battery Cell Composition: AGM Capacity: 100Ah Cycles: 460 Cycles at 50% DoD Warranty: 2 Years |
The Renogy 12 Volt AGM battery is another excellent option for RV camping, where you can recharge it with solar when you are off-grid. This AGM battery features an advanced valve-regulated technology that makes it leak-proof and has low maintenance. However, Renogy recommends mounting this battery upright, unlike other AGM batteries that you can install in any position.
While most batteries feature binary lead-alloy plates, this battery features proprietary quinary-alloy plates to enable low internal resistance with high current output. However, you can connect two batteries to get more load to power your RV.
Generally, the depth of discharge of an RV battery can hit 80% without degrading. But, Renogy recommends keeping this battery above 50% charge at all times to prevent diminishing its cycle life. Undercharging is one of the causes of battery degradation, and users have noted that this battery has a cycle life that is less than two years. However, keeping the depth of discharge as recommended and regular recharging will help to increase the battery’s life.
Pros
- Compatible with solar for off-grid recharging,
- Leak-proof and maintenance-free design,
- Excellent discharge performance at low temperature,
- Has great performance in freezing temperatures
Cons
- It takes a long time to recharge,
- Has a short cycle life
2. Expert Power 12V Rechargeable Deep Cycle Battery
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Price:  (fewer  = cheaper)Weight: 23.8 Pounds (10.8 kg) Size: 7.7 x 7.1 x 5.2 Inches (19.6 x 18 x 13.1 cm) Voltage: 12 Volts Battery Type: Deep-Cycle Battery Cell Composition: AGM Capacity: 33Ah/ 10Hrs Cycles: 500 cycles at 50% DoD |
Expert Power is an American brand that supplies energy storage systems and has built a strong reputation for producing reliable and affordable products for various uses. The EXP12330 is a dual-purpose battery for deep cycle and float applications. While it is a significantly small battery to power your RV, it may be ideal for powering some appliances and lighting off-grid.
The battery features rugged and maintenance-free construction and AGM technology, which gives it a wide operating temperature range while keeping it leak-proof for safety. It also has a low power discharge rate and will discharge to 60% in 10 months, which gives it a decent shelf life.
The EXP12330 features an internal resistance of <8.5 Ohms at 77°F that is suitable for cranking small internal combustion engines such as garden equipment and small boats. However, the current output is too low for starting cars, trucks, and trolling motors as it is not a full-sized battery.
Pros
- Slow discharge rate gives it long shelf life,
- General-purpose battery with a wide light-duty application,
- Good quality and rugged construction,
- Compact and powerful for small pontoon boats
Cons
- Low capacity for most RV applications,
- Not returnable and no indication of warranty
3. Optima Batteries 12V YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
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Price:    (fewer  = cheaper)Weight: 37.8 Pounds (17.1 kg) Size: 9.4 x 6.8 x 7.8 Inches (23.8 x 17.3 x 19.7 cm) Voltage: 12 Volts Battery Type: Dual-Purpose Battery Cell Composition: AGM Capacity: 48Ah Cycles: 25 Amps with RC at 98 Mins Warranty: 3 Years |
Ideally, an RV camper would have two batteries where the smaller battery cranks the engine, and the larger house battery runs the onboard electrical systems. This dual battery system ensures that you don’t end up with a dead battery while dry camping with the RV. However, a dual-purpose battery performs both functions, making it a better option for smaller RVs that can’t fit two batteries.
Optima is one of the few top brands that manufacture high-performance dual-purpose batteries, and the Optima YellowTop D75/25 is an excellent option for heavy-duty applications. It delivers a high cranking and deep-cycle power that is significantly superior to the competition. Plus, it also features the Optima Spiral Cell Technology that produces more consistent load and vibration resistance.
Pros
- High capacity battery for heavy-duty applications,
- Suitable for small RVs that need less weight,
- Delivers high cranking power and rechargeability,
- High vibration resistance for durability
Cons
- The battery has a short cycle life,
- Expensive for its quality
4. Interstate Batteries 12V Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery
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Price:  (fewer  = cheaper)Weight: 37.5 Pounds (17 kg) Size: 9 x 8.3 x 5.4 Inches (22.9 x 21 x 13.8 cm) Voltage: 12 Volts Battery Type: Deep-Cycle Battery Cell Composition: AGM Capacity: 55Ah Warranty: 1 Year |
The Interstate DCM0055 battery comes with a small nominal capacity of 55Ah for wheelchairs and electric scooters. However, the ampere-hours are lower than the standard 100Ah needed to power your RV. However, you can connect a couple of these batteries for powering small electrical appliances such as a fridge while you are dry camping. Additionally, it is compatible with solar, and you can recharge with panels every couple of hours. The DCM0055 is a Sealed Lead Acid AGM battery that is spill-proof with low maintenance. Plus, it has a flexible mounting position due to its robust external casing.
Pros
- Lighter and more compact for portability,
- Rechargeable with solar panels for backup power,
- Suitable for charging small camping appliances,
- Faster charging rate due to its capacity
Cons
- Smaller capacity than standard for RVs,
- Has a short 1-year warranty
5. Expert Power12V Lithium Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery
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Price:      (fewer  = cheaper)Weight: 5.8 Pounds (2.6 kg) Size: 7.1 x 6.6 x 3 Inches (18 x 16.8 x 7.6 cm) Voltage: 12 Volts Battery Type: Deep-Cycle Battery Cell Composition: Lithium-ion Capacity: 20Ah Cycles: 7000 cycles at 50% DoD |
The Expert Power EP1220 is a lightweight Lithium Iron battery that allows several recharge cycles daily due to its fast charging time. Lithium Iron batteries offer certain advantages to sealed lead acid varieties, such as having a 10-year service life compared to three years with an SLA battery. Additionally, the EP1220 comes with a built-in management system that protects it from the common factors that cause SLA batteries to degrade, such as overcharging, deep discharge, and overheating.
The EP1220 is a small capacity battery suitable for powering electric wheelchairs and garden equipment such as lawnmowers. However, you can connect up to four units to create a 12V 80Ah battery bank for more load and thus increase the range of applications. However, this brand has several customer complaints regarding poor performance on these batteries and value for money.
Pros
- Lightweight for easy portability,
- Features built-in safety features for durability,
- Low discharge rate and long service life,
- Safe and environmentally friend construction
Cons
- More expensive than typical AGM batteries,
- The manufacturer has poor customer service
6. Mighty Max 12V AGM Battery
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Price:   (fewer  = cheaper)Weight: 63.9 Pounds (29 kg) Size: 12.2 x 8.3 x 6.6 Inches (30.9 x 21.1 x 16.8 cm) Voltage: 12 Volts Battery Type: Dual-Purpose Battery Cell Composition: AGM Capacity: 100Ah Cycles: 360 cycles at 50% DoD |
The Mighty Max ML100 is an affordable deep cycle battery suitable as a standby or solar battery. It also powers electric vehicles and tools and the RV house. The ML100 is also lightweight at 63 pounds and features a sealed lead acid AGM construction with a polypropylene casing. It gives the battery a high resistance to vibration, low maintenance, and durability. The battery has a low power discharge rate which allows you to store it at room temperature without going below 20% DOD for up to six months.
The ML100 delivers good performance in high and low temperatures and can tolerate 360 cycles at 50% depth of discharge. It is one of the most affordable 100Ah batteries available and is attractive due to its versatile applications. While the manufacturer also recommends it as a dual-purpose battery, users have noted that it does not have a high current output compared to brands like Optima. However, it might be suitable for small gas and diesel engines such as trolling motors.
Pros
- Low self-discharge rate gives it long shelf life,
- Lightweight and robust design for heavy-duty use,
- Compatible with solar for off-grid applications,
- Flexible mounting position due to its leak-proof construction
Cons
- It has a low current output for a starter battery,
- It comes with a short warranty period,
- Poor customer service from the manufacturer
7. Interstate Batteries 12V Deep Cycle Battery
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Price:      (fewer  = cheaper)Weight: 67.5 Pounds (30.6 kg) Size: 13 x 8.4 x 6.8 Inches (33 x 21.2 x 17.3 cm) Voltage: 12 Volts Battery Type: Deep-Cycle Battery Cell Composition: AGM Capacity: 110Ah Cycles: 800 Cycles at 50% Warranty: No Warranty |
Interstate Batteries is one of the oldest and best-known brands in the automotive batteries market. The DCM0100 is a replacement battery for various large-capacity applications, including RVs, and is also suitable for storing solar energy.
It is a versatile battery for extended off-grid trips with a nominal capacity of 110Ah that compares favorably with the competition. While it has a deep discharge at 80%, you can extend the battery’s life with a 50% DOD to get up to 800 cycles. Additionally, as a sealed lead-acid battery, it can be mounted in any position because it is leak-proof and maintenance-free.
Pros
- Excellent capacity for RV applications,
- Leak-proof and maintenance-free design,
- Can back up solar energy for off-grid use,
- Reliable with a low discharge rate
Cons
- It takes a long time to charge,
- Does not have a dependable warranty
8. Optima Batteries D51 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
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Price:    (fewer  = cheaper)Weight: 19.4 Pounds (8.8 kg) Size: 9.2 x 8.9 x 5 Inches (23.4 x 22.7 x 12.6 cm) Voltage: 12 Volts Battery Type: Dual-Purpose Battery Cell Composition: AGM Capacity: 38Ah Cycles: 25 Amps with RC at 66 Mins Warranty: 3 Years |
The Optima D51 is a 38Ah 12V dual-purpose battery suitable for single battery vehicles to support various onboard electronics such as winches and high-demand audio systems. It has excellent starting performance with a wide operating temperature and a CCA value of 450 Amps. Additionally, its SpiralCell structure gives it a low discharge rate and high vibration resistance. The D51 can tolerate 300+ recharge cycles at 50% depth of discharge and allows fast recharge, which makes it attractive to fishing boat users. However, the battery has a few downsides, such as having a short life where some users had to replace their batteries after three years. A new battery typically lasts for five years with good maintenance, but a remanufactured battery may not last as long.
Pros
- Versatile dual purpose battery with excellent performance,
- High vibration resistance with polypropylene case for durability,
- Low discharge rate with a fast recharge time,
- Better cranking power than the competition
Cons
- Warranty may not be honored by the seller,
- Some batteries have a short service life,
- It’s more expensive than the competitio
Following all the comparisons, research and information we have gathered about these top RV deep cycle batteries, we can confidently say that Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery 12V is the best RV deep cycle battery out in the market.
However, if you are on a slightly tighter budget, you can also consider the Interstate Batteries 12V Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery as an affordable alternative.
Lastly, if you are going through all the best features with high-quality materials and would like to consider all the premium options out there, we will strongly recommend the Expert Power12V Lithium Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery. We look forward to hearing from you in the comments below what are some other models that you might have experienced that are even better!
What You Should Know Before Buying RV Deep Cycle Batteries
Key Difference Between Battery For RV, Campers And Trailers
Necessary to think about owning the type of RV, camper or trailer you want before you can make a purchase. The main difference is between camping with an RV and dry camping. Dry camping is when you do not have access to electricity and water for your RV. There are many things to take into consideration when buying an RV and they will vary by the owner’s lifestyle because what the individual needs may be different from another person.
Understanding what type of camper or trailer is right for you should be based on what kind of experience you would like to have while sleeping in it. For example: if someone likes taking long road trips then purchasing a camper would be a good option, but if someone just wants to go to the lake for a weekend then renting an RV or trailer and taking your own vehicle would be better.
Camper
A camper is smaller in size than an RV and usually has two double beds, a table that converts into a bed, microwave, sink with running water and toilet (porta-potty). A camper can also come with air conditioning, a refrigerator and heating.
RV
An RV has more space than a camper and can sleep up to 8 people if needed which means it is great for larger families or group of friends who want to go on an adventure together. The kitchenette in an RV may have your typical appliances like the microwave, oven (not all models), refrigerator and a sink, but the main difference between an RV and camper is that it has a bathroom inside. Having your toilet, shower and sink all in one area offers convenience if you plan to stay somewhere for 2 weeks or longer (something you can’t do with a camper).
The type of roof depends on which type of RV you are buying. The roof can be made of fiberglass, rubber or metal. Each type comes with pros and cons but the main difference is cost, weight capacity and insulation qualities.
Another factor to consider when deciding on an RV is whether it will be used for long distance travel (highway) or short distance travel (city). This will determine weather or not you’ll need to have the higher end model that includes air conditioning and many other factors.
Trailer
A trailer is a perfect choice if you do not plan on traveling long distances because they are lighter in weight and travel shorter distances at slower speeds. The smaller trailers are pulled by an automobile that has a hitch. Trailers can be used to haul camping equipment, watercraft or riding lawnmowers. Larger trailers generally have wheels and travel on the highway.
Trailers come in all shapes and sizes from tiny pop-ups to motorhomes (RVs) that sleep as many as 14 people. They can even come with a rooftop AC unit, fireplace and space to park an automobile.
Trailers are also built for a specific purpose. For example: some people will travel in their pop-up camper which is essentially a tent on the top of a trailer that has beds inside while others choose to use it as storage for large items.
Some people choose to use trailers as RVs. Trailers can be quickly changed into a more permanent living situation by adding plumbing and insulation. This allows the owner to take their home with them wherever they decide to go just like an RV would do.
Rv Battery Cell Composition And Materials
Lead-acid batteries are the most common type of deep cycle battery, but there is a difference between flooded and valve-regulated. Flooded lead-acid cells come in two varieties: Serviceable style with removable caps so you can inspect or perform maintenance as needed or the sealed maintenance-free style.
Valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries are gelled or absorbed glass mat (AGM) types for deep cycling and don’t require adding water like flooded cells. They will however still require attention at some interval depending upon use.
Deep Cycle Battery
Deep cycle batteries are also known as “deep cell” batteries, which means that they’re good for use in varying temperatures. Unlike regular car batteries, deep cycle batteries can be discharged and then recharged without damage to the battery.
Deep cycle batteries are most commonly used in RVs and boats. They can’t be used to start a car, like regular batteries because they will quickly lose their charge and die within minutes or even seconds if put under the strain of having to turn over an engine. Deep cycle batteries also aren’t meant for high power/ high drain appliances. Using a deep cycle battery for this will shorten its lifespan.
Best Features To Look Out For In An Rv Battery
RVs have a few different types of battery and the one you need to select for your needs will depend on where and how you intend on using your RV.
The most important RV battery features you should be aware of when selecting your battery are:
The battery size – CCA versus AH. When choosing an RV battery, one of your biggest considerations will be whether to choose a cold cranking amp (CCA) or amp-hour (AH). Most people that own an Rv will choose the CCA batteries as they are cheaper but have less endurance. For example, if you use your motorhome as a camper van for a week holiday then you won’t need lots of power. In this case, it’s best to get yourself a lower CCA battery, A lower CCA rating will mean the battery will last longer and be more economical. On the other hand, if you use your motorhome or camper van for a living it’s best to get yourself a higher CCA battery. For an example if you live in your RV then you would need at least 100 CCA.
The lifespan and durability – Lifespan is one of the most important features to look out for when buying an RV battery. The lifespan of an RV battery will vary depending on how well it is looked after but all batteries have limited lifespans. One way of extending the life span of your battery is by keeping it charged, It’s recommended to keep an RV battery charged at around 12.7-12.9 volts.
Lifespan of the mount and bracket included with the RV battery – In addition to checking for a strong, solid frame of the RV battery, you will also want to take a close look at the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket is an integral part of any battery system. Its tough and durable metal secures your battery firmly in place. Some brackets can be removed from your old one and reused on your new battery with varying degrees of success.
The majority of mounts are constructed from steel and stainless steel designs have been employed as alternatives to the traditional all-steel versions. Steel can corrode over time, which makes it vulnerable to rust, especially when exposed to water or humidity. Stainless steel has been used as an alternative because it does not rust easily and lasts longer than steel variants.
Amperage Hours – You would want to select a battery with the largest amp-hours possible as this will ensure that your battery can perform its job for longer. When choosing an RV battery, it’s useful to know what the difference between Ah and CCA rating mean. Amp-hours is how much energy is stored within each individual RV battery.
Types Of Rv Batteries
There are 3 main types of RV batteries: Flooded, Gel, and AGM batteries. We’ll cover the different types below:
Flooded Batteries (wet cell) — These are the oldest type of battery that has been available since 1912. It is also the cheapest with a price that ranges from $50 to $80, depending on brand and capacity (measured in amp hour). Although this type of battery is cheaper, it does not come with an advantage over the other types: It has a higher failure rate and has to be checked on daily since they are more likely to spill out acid when recharged.
Gel Batteries — This type of battery became popular in the 80s after they became popular in military vehicles, aircraft, and off-road vehicles. Though the battery is more expensive than flooded batteries at around $100 to $120 per amp hour, it can store a higher charge for longer periods of time hence having a longer lifespan. Gel Batteries also have the advantage that they are less likely to spill out acid when recharged—they even won’t leak when the battery is being used.
AGM (absorbed glass mat) Batteries — This type of battery became popular in 1995 and is commonly known as “maintenance free”. These batteries are more expensive than flooded ones at around $200 to $250 per amp hour; but what it stands out with is its quality which is similar to that of Gel Batteries. It is a sealed unit, does not need any maintenance nor will it spill out acid even if it’s knocked over or recharged.
RV Battery Sizes
There are several different size battery options for your RV, there are the typical 6 volt batteries and also 12 volt batteries. The 6 volt battery was once standard on RVs, but newer vehicles do not come equipped with this type of battery.
When you purchase a new RV battery it will be labeled as either 6 volts or 12 volts.
Both sizes have advantages and disadvantages. The 6 volt battery is lighter weight for installation and easier to move around for servicing. However, the disadvantage is that they last fewer charge cycles, which means more replacements throughout the lifetime of your RV. The 12 voltage battery lasts more charge cycles than a six-volt counterpart, but are heavier and take up more space in your RV.
The 6-volt size is commonly found in smaller RVs with a low amp draw, like pop-up campers and travel trailers. This type of battery can be placed in the trunk underneath the motorhome bed or inside the engine bay of an RV that does not have a large amount of electrical equipment.
These smaller RVs do not need the extra capacity of a 12-volt battery and the additional space used to install one is not necessary. These 6-volt batteries can be found in most department stores and walmart, so they are easy to find for replacement or new construction.
The 12-volt size is common in RVs with high amp draw, like Class A motorhomes, 5th Wheels and the larger travel trailers. The 12-volt size battery is lighter than an equivalent 6-volt battery but does not last as long due to its smaller capacity. These batteries are found in RV dealerships and other parts dealers that sell RVs, but they can be expensive when purchased new.
The 12-volt RV batteries are usually the standard battery size in marine and automotive applications due to their higher performance in high amp draw equipment.
Questions and Answers About Rv Deep Cycle Batteries
How to pick a compatible battery charger?
Pick a charger that provides the amperage required by your battery’s specifications. It is important to make sure your battery operates at its optimal level, so not only should you use the right voltage, but also a charger with enough amps.
All of our chargers come with an amperage rating. Be sure to check the amp rating of your battery. In general, a battery’s amp rating should be at least equal to or greater than the charger’s amp rating.
What is made up of a battery kit?
An RV battery kit consists of a set of lead-acid automobile batteries and a set of cables, clamps and connecting hardware. The kit is designed to provide the power supply for people who travel in recreational vehicles that are primarily powered by electricity. Such materials are used to convert the AC power from the generator to DC power. They are also used to store the electrical energy generated from solar panels or wind generators.
Is deep cycle battery better than the rest?
When it comes to RVs – yes. A deep cycle battery is different from a car battery because it stores energy in a much bigger area, and has thick plates for more surface contact, so that the chemical reaction will not stop as quickly. It gives longer-lasting power than starting or “cranking” batteries used in cars. Deep cycle batteries are better at powering big electrical loads like motors and refrigerators without going dead quickly when compared to standard car batteries that typically start an engine only once per day.
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