Three Types of Deep Cycle RV Batteries

Deep cycle RV batteries are different than the type you use to start your car. There are three types of batteries you can use in your RV. These types include flooded acid, gel cell, and absorbed glass mat. This article will discuss the different types of deep cycle RV batteries.

Flooded Acid

One of the first types of deep cycle RV batteries is the flooded acid design. Most RVs use this type of battery. They have thick lead plates that are submerged in a solution of electrolytes. These deep cycle RV batteries can have either six or 12 volts. These batteries are preferred because they are inexpensive and widely available.

However, these deep cycle RV batteries have a few disadvantages. You can only use them in a vented compartment because they generate flammable and corrosive gases whenever they are charging. These deep cycle RV batteries can also spill acid. You will also have to check them occasionally and add water to them because it will boil away while the battery is charging.

Gel Cell

One of the next types of deep cycle RV batteries is the gel cell variety. They are similar to flooded acid batteries except that the solution of electrolytes is gelled instead of liquid. Therefore, you won't have to put water in them like you have to with flooded acid batteries. These deep cycle RV batteries also don't generate gases while charging, so you don't have to keep them in a vented compartment.

There are a few disadvantages of gel cell deep cycle RV batteries. These batteries are more expensive than the flooded acid variety. Also, They can easily be damaged if you overcharge them just once. These deep cycle RV batteries also take longer to charge because you have to charge them slower than other types.

AGM

The last type of battery you can use in your RV is the absorbed glass mat design. These deep cycle RV batteries have glass mat material located between the plates and the electrolyte solution. This prevents them from spilling acid. The fact that they will never spill means they are the only type of battery that you can ship safely. They also require little maintenance and won't generate gas.