RV Battery: How Do You Choose the Right One?

[roripet]

Hello everyone.

I’m planning to replace my current RV battery before my next camping trip and want to choose the right type. I’m comparing lead-acid, AGM, and lithium options, but I’m not sure which one offers the best balance of price, capacity, lifespan, and maintenance.

I normally camp both with and without hookups, so dependable power is important. For those who have experience with an RV battery, what type has worked best for you?

How much capacity would you recommend for basic lights, appliances, and electronics?

I’d also appreciate any advice about charging, installation, and common mistakes to avoid when purchasing a new battery.

 

[roripet]

Hello everyone.

I’m planning to replace my current RV battery before my next camping trip and want to choose the right type. I’m comparing lead-acid, AGM, and lithium options, but I’m not sure which one offers the best balance of price, capacity, lifespan, and maintenance.

I normally camp both with and without hookups, so dependable power is important. For those who have experience with an RV battery, what type has worked best for you?

How much capacity would you recommend for basic lights, appliances, and electronics?

I’d also appreciate any advice about charging, installation, and common mistakes to avoid when purchasing a new rv battery.

thanks in advance for any help

 

[Phillbo]

Lithium is the go to for the future. Might as well jump on board now. Lighter, more capacity and you don't have to worry about damaging them if you use them as needed.

 

[Kevin D Pem]

It sounds easy but it's not. California is checking electrical installations for certifications. And are targeting DIY lithium installations. Insurance companies are targeting storage facilities, and the topic is lithium.

What used to be fairly straightforward projects are becoming much more difficult to navigate.

It's not all that surprising. I have stuck with AGM tech due to the same concerns that regulators are now discussing openly.

Battle born is involved in litigation due to designed flaws! They were at one time coveted. My question is what lithium manufacturers will be the next targets? And if build quality is an issue, what price point will be chosen for safest threshold. Certainly not the cheapest!

I would not chose flooded Lead acid due to corrosion issues.

In My opinion. Over all considered criteria, AGMs are the only choice.

 

[Richpatty]

I agree lithium is the way to go. And yes, Kevin is a lithium skeptic, so do your research and make the decision based on your needs.

And avoid Battleborn at all costs. Take a look here for good info.

https://youtube.com/@willprowse?

 

[TheLooks]

Lithium if you know what you are doing. It requires some changes in the system. But the return on investment is well worth getting the education required to operate it. Really, you need an education to have any battery. Its amazing after all the years that so many don't understand basic lead acid batteries. I am one of those up until several years ago. Had a bunch of them, had no clue about how they worked or maintaining them. got educated and moved on. Lithium baby.....

 

[AbdRahim]

When had a trail (new 2014), I carried two 2000 w generators and would have to use at least one, if I were to park overnight.

 

[John&Andrea]

Lithium is a good option but an investment. You will need to find out if your converter will work with lithium.