When buying RV batteries, we first need to know what type of batteries we need, whether they are mainly used in cold areas or in rainforest areas, in this way we can buy batteries according to our needs. There are also many types of batteries, so we need to know something about batteries to pick the best one for us.
There are three types of RV batteries: starter batteries, deep cycle batteries, and dual purpose batteries.
1. Starter battery: It is mainly the battery needed to start the engine of the caravan, similar to the car battery we see in our daily life.
2. Deep Cycle Batteries: Deep cycle batteries are not often the car batteries we see in our daily lives, deep cycle batteries are designed to provide constant power for long periods of time and to operate reliably, withstand deep discharges of the total capacity (up to about 80% or even more), and can be recharged over and over again. The main types of deep cycle batteries are lead-acid (flooded FLA and valve regulated lead-acid VRLA), lithium-ion, and dual-purpose, i.e., hybrid, batteries. Deep cycle batteries can be charged for a variety of applications and can power equipment such as lights, TVs, refrigerators, etc. in RVs.
3. Dual Purpose Batteries: Dual Purpose Batteries can be used for both starting batteries and deep cycle batteries. Not only can they power the RV’s starter engine, but they can also power appliances inside the RV.
What are the best RV battery brands?
1. JMHPOWER Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery
High-quality deep-cycle batteries, JMHPOWER lithium iron phosphate batteries have the advantages of high operating voltage, high energy density, long cycle life, good safety performance, small self-discharge rate and no memory effect. The battery management system provides optimal safety by preventing overcharging and over-discharging and comes with a warranty.
2. Duracell Super Liquid-Rich Battery
Featuring reliable liquid-filled batteries with starting, deep cycle and dual-use options, and backed by a warranty.
3. AGM Battery
Perfect for deep-cycling and dual use, this battery offers more power than liquid-filled batteries and comes with a 30-month maintenance warranty.
Difference between liquid-rich lead-acid batteries, AGM lead-acid batteries and lithium iron phosphate batteries
Liquid Rich Lead Acid Batteries There are three types of liquid rich lead acid batteries, which are starter batteries, deep cycle batteries, and dual purpose batteries, and this type of battery is the most economical and favorable of these batteries. However, this type of battery has a shorter lifespan. Liquid-rich lead-acid batteries are not completely sealed batteries and require regular checking of the electrolyte inside the battery.
AGM Lead Acid Batteries AGM lead acid batteries can be used as starter batteries, deep cycle batteries, dual purpose batteries, faster charging, more durable and to cope with extreme weather, the upfront investment cost of AGM lead acid batteries is higher than that of the liquid-rich lead acid batteries, but the service life of the AGM lead acid batteries is about two times longer than that of the liquid-rich lead acid batteries, the AGM lead acid batteries are completely sealed and do not require routine AGM lead-acid batteries are completely sealed and do not require routine maintenance, and are also lighter in weight.
Lithium Iron Phosphate Batteries Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries can be used as deep cycle batteries. Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries cost more than liquid-rich batteries and AGM batteries, but they also have a higher lifespan. The batteries are in a completely sealed state and can be installed in a variety of configurations to suit your motorhome, and they also recharge faster and are lighter in weight.
How to choose the size and voltage of your caravan battery
The size of an RV battery is not fixed, it varies with the model of our RV, the manufacturer, design needs, etc. We usually see a 12volt system voltage because of the long history of development and the large inertial system that has been put in place, which is difficult to change. Although the higher the voltage, the efficiency will increase accordingly, like the 24-volt power supply system, 48-volt power supply system, but there is a danger of electricity. With the development of technology high-voltage power supply system is also suitable for caravans, but the cost of using a certain increase, because of the need to improve the safety of the insulating materials used, etc. are also different.
Selecting a caravan battery for your needs
No matter what type of battery, we need to estimate the battery capacity according to our actual needs. We can estimate our personal power needs, what appliances are used in our caravan, and then check the power of the appliances to get an approximate figure. Caravans are not recommended to use high-power electrical appliances in case of insufficient power or malfunction. Then estimate the amount of power that the battery can provide, get your power needs, and we can pick the right battery for your needs.
Summarize
The best caravan battery is the one that suits you best, not just pursuing high voltage and high efficiency, we have to choose the right battery according to our needs.
