Deep Cycle Batteries: Which Type Does Your RV Need?

Industrial & Manufacturing Blog

Your house battery has the all-important role of powering everything in your RV other than the engine. You need a battery that can handle all your RV activities. Here's what you need to know about deep cycle batteries to make an informed decision.

How Deep Cycle Batteries Work

The battery that helps to start your engine is the same as the batteries found in cars. It requires a large output of current in one burst. By contrast, the house battery needs a steady supply of current over time.

A deep cycle battery fulfills that requirement. It uses less power to supply all your lights, and appliances with power. Deep cycle batteries will supply power until fully discharged. They go from that state to recharged in a cycle, hence the name.

When choosing a deep cycle battery, you will see ratings for their CCA or RC.

• CCA – Cold Cranking Amps
• RC – Reserve Capacity

The CCA can tell you how much power the battery can supply at any given time. The RC can let you know how long the battery will last before it discharges and needs a recharge. In either case; the more, the better.

How Deep Cycle Battery Voltages Work

Deep cycle batteries for RVs usually come in 6-volt or 12-volt size. Your RV batteries will always put out -12v, so if you use 6-volt "golf cart" batteries, you need two of them. This also applies to having multiple batteries in a bank. No matter the number, the batteries need to output 12v.

You may hear some debate over which size battery works best. In the end, the battery configuration you choose will mostly depend on the battery compartment of your RV. If the compartment can comfortably fit an arrangement of four 6-volt batteries, then go with that. If it requires two 12-volt batteries, then that's what you should look further into.

How Different Types of Deep Cycle Batteries Work

You'll mainly find three different types of deep cycle batteries out there for RVs. Each one is a lead cell battery but with different internal structures and mechanisms.

• Flooded or wet cell – The conventional RV battery. Usually more affordable than other types. Requires maintenance.
• Gel cell –Doesn't require maintenance, but also doesn't tolerate a fast charge as well as some other types. Typically lasts longer than conventional RV batteries.
• Absorbed glass mat or sealed – Tolerates fast charging and last longer than conventional batteries. Often considered the best option for RVs.

No matter what type of battery you choose, look for quality rather than cost. Choose a reputable RV battery manufacturer. By going for quality, you'll find a battery that works best for your RV and your needs. For more information on Trojan batteries, contact your local battery supplier today.

4 March 2018