5 Best RV Deep Cycle Battery in 2024 | LydiaScapes

Best RV Deep Cycle Battery

We’ve spent countless hours on the road driving our trusty RVs, and we can’t stress enough how important a good battery is for those living the RV life. You may not realize it until you’re faced with a weak battery, but trust us, nothing derails the spirit of adventure like unexpected power issues, especially in the dead of winter or in the middle of the wilderness or desert. The biggest benefit of a deep cycle battery is that its RC is higher than other similar batteries. They also provide more sustained energy, so you can use it for longer.

So what’s the best deep cycle battery to keep your RV running smoothly? We’ve looked at the options for you – here are our favorite deep cycle RV batteries based on their overall performance.

Best RV Deep Cycle Battery

What is the Best RV Deep Cycle Battery?

Below you’ll find the list of the top 5 Best RV Deep Cycle Battery. We compiled this list from RV deep cycle batteries we have used, asked others about, and researched further to give you the best possible roundup. With many years of experience with deep-cycle batteries for RV you can be assured that this article will give you what you’re looking for.

We also wrote a buying guide and answered some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) at the end of this article.

1. Goal Zero Yeti 12V AGM Deep Cycle Battery

Goal Zero Yeti 12V AGM Deep Cycle Battery
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: 75 pounds (34.02 kg)
Size: 12.9 x 8.7 x 6.8 inches (32.8 x 22.1 x 17.3 cm)
Voltage: 12 Volts
Battery Type: Deep-Cycle
Battery Cell Composition: AGM
Capacity: 125Ah
Cycles: 900 cycles at 50%
Warranty: 1 Year

Goal Zero Yeti 1250 is a portable power generator that stores and delivers solar energy to power most home appliances. It features a built-in Pure Sine Inverter that converts solar energy to safe and reliable AC power and protects sensitive equipment from fluctuations. Additionally, the Yeti 1250 comes with several power outlets that can power up to ten devices simultaneously. Although it is heavy at 75 pounds, it is an excellent option for off-grid camping, where you need more power than your RV house battery can provide, and as backup power for off-grid domestic applications.

This Yeti 1250 generator comes with the 12V VMAX SLR125 deep cycle battery, which is one of the best in class solar batteries in the market. It is a dry battery that uses an electrolyte suspension system with high porosity fiberglass-mat to make it leak-proof to mount in any orientation. The battery can deliver up to 900 discharge/ recharge cycles at 50% depth of discharge and has a reserve capacity of 260 minutes.

Furthermore, it has a low self-discharge rate of approximately 1-2% per month at room temperature, unlike the 3% you get with conventional AGM batteries. The SLR125 offers a float service life of 8-10 years and comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Pros

  • Offers an outstanding long term performance with zero maintenance,
  • Has a low discharge rate per month and long shelf life,
  • Rugged construction for operating in extreme weather,
  • Exceptionally high power density to power multiple appliances,
  • Low resistance makes the battery 99% efficient,
  • Allows versatile recharge options for convenience,
  • Power generator delivers quiet operation

Cons

  • Heavy at 75 pounds,
  • Costs more than the competition

2. Interstate Batteries 12V Deep Cycle Battery

Interstate Batteries 12V Deep Cycle Battery
Specs
Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Size: 13 x 8.3 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

3. Expert Power12V Lithium Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery

Expert Power12V Lithium Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
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
Warranty: 1 Year

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,
  • Some reviews say the manufacturer has poor customer service

4. ExpertPower 12V Lithium Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery

ExpertPower 12V Lithium Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Size: 13 x 9.3 x 6.8 inches (33 x 23.6 x 17.3 cm)
Voltage: 12 Volts
Battery Type: Deep-Cycle
Battery Cell Composition: Lithium-ion
Capacity: 100Ah
Cycles: 7000 cycles with 50% DoD
Warranty: 1 Year

The Expert Power EP12100 is a Group 31 deep cycle battery that features proprietary lithium-iron-phosphate chemistry. It features a built-in Battery Management System that protects the battery from failure due to overheating and overcharging/ discharging. The manufacturer recommends against using SLA smart chargers and instead charge the battery with other options such as solar panels and smart lithium battery chargers.

While its design makes it more compact than traditional lead-acid batteries, the EP12100 battery delivers excellent service performance that makes it worth the extra cost. It has a nominal capacity of 12V and a reserve capacity of 240 minutes, unlike the 200 minutes you get from conventional AGM batteries. Additionally, the battery can tolerate up to 7000 cycles at 50% DoD with multiple discharge/ recharge cycles in a day, making it a convenient choice for RV camping.

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight design for easy portability,
  • Slow discharge rate gives you more service life and shelf life,
  • Can tolerate multiple cycles in a day without degrading,
  • High energy density gives you consistent power

Cons

  • Premium price compared to conventional AGM batteries,
  • Short warranty period and return window

5. NPP 6V AGM Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery

NPP 6V AGM Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Size: 10.2 x 9.7 x 6.7 inches (26 x 24.6 x 16.9 cm)
Voltage: 6 Volts
Battery Type: Deep-Cycle
Battery Cell Composition: AGM
Capacity: 225Ah
Cycles: 750 cycles with 50% DoD
Warranty: 1 Year

The NPP NP6 AGM deep cycle battery certainly excels in cost-effectiveness. The two-pack offering is a savvy way to achieve 12V 225Ah, especially given that these batteries are more budget-friendly than single units from competitors. The rugged, vibration-resistant ABS casing and high energy density make these batteries excellent for powering refrigerators and other devices, even when charging with 200W solar panels. However, the NP6 has its downsides. Despite their compact design, these batteries heavier than others at 75 pounds, and some users have reported a disappointingly short service life. Even so, we find this battery to be a great deal.

Pros

  • High-quality battery,
  • Affordable for 2 units,
  • 3% discharge rate per month,
  • Durable design

Cons

  • Heavier than average at 75 pounds,
  • Costs more than the competition

Verdict

Based on all of our experience with deep-cycle batteries for RV, we found that Goal Zero Yeti 12V AGM Deep Cycle Battery is the best RV deep cycle battery available today.

Our Premium Option is Interstate Batteries 12V Deep Cycle Battery with all the best features and high-quality materials, but that’s only if you have more money to spend.

However, if you are on a slightly tighter budget, you can also consider the Expert Power12V Lithium Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery as an affordable alternative.

Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:

What You Should Know Before Buying RV deep cycle batteries

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 marine 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.

Key Difference Between Batteries 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, so you need to be mindful if your RV has all the right heating and battery set up to survive in the wild. 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 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

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.

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 or 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.

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