Best Deep Cycle RV Batteries (How to Choose Right Type)

Published on: March 28, 2022
Written by Liam Jaxon / Fact-checked by David Rowan

A deep cycle battery can supply power to run lights, fish finder, radios and other essential electrical elements even without 110 volt power supply. So it became the most important source of power supply at any outdoor activity. 

But when I had to buy a battery for a RV, the first question that came to my mind was- what features make a deep cycle battery good in quality? Should I look for capacity or voltage or ampere hour! Which one makes it better!

deep cycle rv batteries (how to choose right type)

After a long research, I was able to find the one I needed. And indeed, I am happy with that one. But I found many of you get confused like me selecting this.

There are some kinds of batteries to look over, and here to enable you to pick the correct RV battery to ensure you are not left in obscurity.

For selecting a reliable battery, I highly recommend picking the one which can give out a high amount of power within a few seconds.

Still confused!? Don’t worry, I have summarized my experience to give you a proper idea about some great batteries for RV and the way you can choose them.

Benefits of the Perfect RV Battery

benefits of the rv battery

Deep cycle rv battery should be able to supply your RV with both cranking power and power for running the RV’s appliances and lights. The cranking power of the battery varies at different temperatures. It is lowest at zero degrees Fahrenheit, and bets at about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The reason behind that is that batteries perform better at higher temperatures than they do at lower temperatures. The higher the cranking rating, the better the battery will perform when starting your RV engine. You won’t find yourself unable to start your RV when you need to the most.

The power required to run the appliances depends on the reserve capacity of the battery and the ampere –hour ratings. The reserve capacity rating tells you how long the battery can power your equipment when supplying a constant current of 25 amperes. The best RV battery will have a higher rating. The ampere-hour rating tells you how much power the battery can give during a 20 hour period. The higher the rating, the better the RV battery will perform. You will not run out of power when you least expect to.

What to Look Before Buying an RV Battery

You have to consider several features when buying a battery. These features are not limited to just a deep cycle rv battery; they also apply to other battery applications as well.

Cold Cranking Amperes

This is the amperes that the battery will supply when the starting motor is drawing power from it at a temperature of zero degrees Fahrenheit. This rating is important if you will need to use your RV during winter. Battery performance gets degraded at lower temperatures. Therefore a higher CCA rating assures you the battery will su0ply enough power to start the engine during cold seasons.

Cranking Amperes

This is the power that the battery will supply when the battery is operating at temperatures of around 35 degrees Fahrenheit. This rating has the same importance as the CCA. It tells you how the battery will perform at temperatures above the freezing point of water. The better the CCA rating is, the better the RV battery’s starting performance.

Ampere-Hour Rating

This is the amount of power that a battery will be able to deliver over a period of say 20 hours. The power is measured in the current supplied. So a battery rated at 240AH will be able to supply an average 12 amperes, continuously for 20 hours.

Reserve Capacity

This is the amount of power, which the battery can give for a specified period. It is measured in minutes. The common power output used is 25 amperes. So a battery rated RC 125, will supply 25 amperes for 125 minutes, then the voltage will drop below 10.5 volts.

Resistance to Vibration and Shocks

If a battery has an Absorbed Glass Matt construction, it means that it will be able to withstand vibrations and shocks well compared to a flooded lead acid battery. It can, therefore, supply the RV with power without a drop in performance even when you go off-road. A flooded battery cannot, however, do that without performance degradation.

View Our Selected Deep Cycle RV Batteries, Below-

Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle RV Battery

  • Continuous 10 AMP output;
  • Surge output of 200 AMP;
  • 14.4-14.6 acceptable charging volts;

This is the best 100 AMP RV battery by the manufacturer named Battle Born Batteries. They are at the height of the technology of lithium ion. The 100 Ah 12 Volts LiFePO4 is one of the best RV batteries they’ve ever made. This battery can provide 100 AMP of continuous power output or 200 AMP surge output. This is a 3000-5000 cycle battery and it accepts 14.4-14.6 charging volts.

This is a sleek battery of only 29 lbs weight. The dimension of the battery is 12.75″x6.875″x9.0″ so that this battery looks very compact. This battery is designed and assembled in the USA and it has a free ground shipping qualification.

The battery is renewable as well. On the other hand, this is a sustainable green energy battery. The battery is less in weight, safer, non toxic and lasts for more cycles. This battery is designed to last up to 3000 cycles depth of discharge of up to 100%. At this point, the battery still holds 75-80% energy of its energy capacity.

This battery is easy to use and maintenance free. This is also a modular battery. The BMS or built in Battery Management System protects the battery cells against low or high voltages. Basically, this is one of the powerful Lithium RV battery.

What we liked

  • 12 V lead acid replacement;
  • 3000-5000 cycles;
  • Great for RV, boat or off-grid power system;
  • Can be used in 12, 24, 36 or volts power system;
  • Product dimension: 12.75″x6.875″x9.0″ (LxWxH).

What we didn’t like

  • No noticeable cons;

Sealed Lead Acid – DCM0035 Replacement RV Battery

  • Product Dimensions: 7.7 x 5.2 x 6.3 inches;
  • Item Weight: 23.8 pounds;
  • Item model number: DCM0035;

This battery is rated 35AH. It will power your RV for 20 hours while providing the equipment with a continuous supply of 1.75 amperes each hour. This battery is sealed. That gives you a peace of mind as you do not have to worry about spillages or hydrogen escaping during recharging.

Hydrogen is an explosive gas released during lead acid battery charging. If it accumulates within an enclosed area, it may explode. This battery is marked HCPCS CODE E2365, which means it is cleared for air, road, and sea transport. It is the most reliable and safest RV battery. 

This battery is very compact in size. The dimension of the battery is 7.68×5.16×6.14 inches (LxWxH), so that the battery is lightweight too. The weight is only 23.1 lbs. This battery is able to serve continuous power supply. The DCM0035 is also a heavy duty battery as well.

Additionally, this battery is maintenance free. This non lithium provides long life which is dependent on power use by the application- lighting, agriculture, mobility or medical devices. This is sealed so that it can be mounted at any angle; this battery is suitable for air, ground or water surface/ transport.

What we liked

  • Safe and reliable batteries;
  • High performance battery;
  • Able to give continuous supply;
  • Product dimension: 7.68×5.16×6.14 inches (LxWxH);
  • The battery is lightweight.

What we didn’t like

  • No noticeable cons;

Zooms 12V 200Ah LiFePO4 Deep Cycle RV Battery  

  • Batteries: ‎1 Lithium-ion batteries required;
  • Dimensions: ‎20.5 x 9.37 x 8.54 inches;
  • Weight: ‎48.3 pounds.

Introducing a Zooms 200Ah LiFePO4 battery into your boat or RV means excellent running time. And more power than you would with a conventional battery.

It’s the ideal marine battery for boats with savaging engines, and broad electronic frameworks, and functions admirably as an RV battery for RVs with common luxuries that will more often than not channel batteries rapidly. 

On top of giving extraordinary vibration obstruction, this power conveyance and quicker re-energize time mean you’ll invest less energy agonizing over your battery. This implies more opportunity for the sake of entertainment. Over and over.

This adaptable RV battery are great for individuals who need a definite beginning, solid-wrenching, upkeep-free power source.

What we liked

  • High voltage;
  • Low self-discharge rate;
  • Maintenance-free;
  • Works well as a boat battery or RV battery.

What we didn’t like

  • No noticeable cons.

VMAX SLR125 12V Solar Deep Cycle Battery for RV

  • Voltage: 12 Volts;
  • Weight: 75 Pounds;
  • Dimensions: 12.9″w x 6.8″d x 8.7″h.

This AGM battery for RV or other electrical engines outputs an astounding profound cycle execution rating that can wrench a superior battery and 12 Volt. It flaunts a special structure with the development of persistent lead plates to keep up ideal execution. 

Subsequently, the plan gives a solid, safe power, and a clean hotspot for you and nature.

The battery is a substantial 12v AGM profound cycle battery. With respect to vibration obstruction, this one tops the rundown. Vibration from trolling devices and passing RVs and different vehicles can harm a battery. 

Additionally, the battery offers a quicker energized time so you can invest less energy stressing over your capacity and more opportunity for the sake of entertainment.

What we liked

  • Long-time charge;
  • Low resistance;
  • Workability great.

What we didn’t like

  • Heavy.

Wilderness Tarpon 12V 35AH  Mighty Max RV Battery

  • Brand: Mighty Max Battery;
  • Item Weight: 24 pounds;
  • Product Dimensions: 7.68 inches x 5.16 inches x 7.13 inches;

It is a lead acid battery that is sealed and will power your trolling motor or onboard RV electronics. It is rated 35AH. That means it can supply a current 1.75A for twenty hours before its voltage finally drops below 10.5 volts. It is made of AGM cell support structure.

This Absorbed Glass Matt soaks the electrolyte and supports the cell plates. That makes this battery resistant to shocks and vibrations. 

This rechargeable battery is of 12 volts and this is suitable to be mounted in any position or angle. This is a SLA/AGM maintenance free battery and spill proof. The battery is able to resist shocks and vibration. The battery is very compact in size and lightweight (24 pounds). The cells are specially designed to provide continuous power to your grid. You can use this battery for a long time.

This battery is perfect for your application too. You will find this battery very user friendly. This battery is able to satisfy you.

What we liked

  • It can supply current for twenty hours at the final drop below 10.5 volts;
  • Its lightweight and powerful;
  • It’s perfect for tarpon kayak 120;
  • Very compact in size;
  • Can be mounted in any angel or position.

What we didn’t like

  • No noticeable cons;

Upg 85980/D5722 Sealed Lead Acid Batteries

  • Item Weight: 22.6 pounds;
  • Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 8.1 x 5.9 inches;
  • Item model number: D5722;

This battery is rated 35AH. It can, therefore, power your RV for up to 20 hours while providing an average current of 1.75 amperes continuously. This battery is sealed. That makes it safe to use in poorly ventilated places.

It is a lead acid battery. That assures you of many recharge cycles or what you will see as a long service. It has an operating voltage of 12V. 12V is the voltage rating for most electronic equipment in your RV. That makes it one of the best RV batteries. 

This is a sealed lead acid rechargeable battery and is of 12 volts and this is suitable for any kind of task like security, garage door backup battery, flashlight, electric gates or fences, portable medical device, solar, emergency power supply etc. The battery is very compact in size and lightweight. The cells are specially designed to provide continuous power to your grid. You can use this battery for RV a long time.

This battery is perfect for your application too. You will find this battery very user friendly. This battery is able to satisfy you with its great capability.

What we liked

  • This battery is last and long time for physically and chemically;
  • At all temperatures the battery performs good;
  • This battery is fit for anything;
  • Very compact in size;
  • 12 volts sealed lead acid battery.

What we didn’t like

  • No noticeable cons;

DOBELAY Lithium LiFePO4 Deep Cycle RV Battery

  • Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.2 x 7.6 inches;
  • Weight: 26.4 pounds;
  • Size: 12v-100Ah;
  • Voltage: 12.8 Volts.

The solar Applications and more the battery company is the universe chief in these battery innovations.  Weighing at only 26.4-pounds and featuring a reduced body, the Interstate DOBELAY may be a standout amongst other compact battery alternatives for deep cycle battery accessible. 

Excellent copper material is utilized in the battery terminal, which can forestall rusting to use for quite a while. In the meantime, copper has great electrical conductivity.

This battery has a long life and the least price per AMP-hour of any of the decisions. Uniquely planned profound cycle cells are significantly less helpless to debasement because of cycling and are essential for applications. The batteries are routinely released, for example- RVs, in electric vehicles, photovoltaic frameworks, and uninterruptible capacity supplies.

What we liked

  • Easy to handle;
  • Thicker plates;
  • Long-lasting;
  • Longest life.

What we didn’t like

  • Heavy, which may cause issues in mounting and putting it away.

Lifeline – GPL-8DL RV/ Marine Battery

  • Cold Cranking Amps: 68°F 1975, 32° 1675, 0° 1350;
  • Length X Width X Height: 20.76 X 10.89 X 9.65 inches;
  • 12 volt 255Ah;
  • Group 8D sealed AGM battery;
  • L Blade w/M8 hardware;
  • Item model number: GPL-8DL;
  • Shipping Weight: 156 pounds.

This battery features Absorbed Glass Matt. This glass supports the cell plates and keeps them covered with the electrolyte for maximum performance. It also makes this battery spill-proof. It is rated 255AH. That means it can supply 555A continuously for 20 hours for your RV. It can discharge 25 amperes for 555 minutes. That is over three hours of heavy use.

This is a maintenance-free battery. This is group 31 AGM marine battery. This is a leak-proof kit. Besides, this is a non-hazardous shock & vibration-resistant battery. Additionally, this battery is highly environmentally friendly. The battery has a lower discharge rate and no gassing during the charging. You never need to add water to this batter so it is very easy to use and maintain. I hope you will find this battery very user-friendly.

What we liked

  • Capacity Ampere Hours @ 20 Hr Rate: 255A;
  • Minutes of discharge: 25A 475 min., 15A 825 min., 8A 1670 min;
  • Equipped with rope handles;
  • It charges quickly and has a long battery life;
  • 12V voltage & Group 31 rated AGM battery;
  • Maintenance-free.

What we didn’t like

  • No noticeable cons.

Universal Power Group UB12350 Amigo AGM1234T RV Battery

  • Manufacturer: UPG;
  • Dimensions: 7.75 inches x 5.19 inches x 7.13 inches;
  • Item Weight: 48 pounds.

This lightweight battery is efficient and safe. It is valve controlled which makes it impossible to slip and with its tightly sealed construction, it can be operated to any angle. It is rated 35AH. That is enough to power small electronics a whole night without the need to recharge. This is a sealed acid battery. That means no maintenance of the electrolyte is necessary, and it is in fact not permitted by the manufacturer. You can also safely use it in enclosed spaces.

It contains an Absorbed Glass Matt. That glass soaks up the electrolyte to cover the plates wholly. That increases its cell efficiency and RVs battery performance. The AGM also makes this battery shock and vibration resistant. 

This battery is SLA/AGM rated and maintenance-free. The battery is spillproof as well. Also, this rechargeable battery can be mounted in any position or angle. It also has protection features against vibration and shock. The dimension of the product is 7.75×5.19×7.13 inches so this is simply compact in size. The weight of the battery is 48 pounds.

This is a long-lasting battery and you can use this battery for a long period in RV. This battery is suitable for application too. This battery is able to satisfy you with its great capability and features.

What we liked

  • Rechargeable battery;
  • Spill-proof battery;
  • Maintenance-free;
  • Can be mounted in any position.

What we didn’t like

  • No noticeable cons.

NPP NP6-225Ah 6V 225Ah AGM Deep Cycle Battery for RV

  • UL, CE, IEC, ISO14001, ISO19001, OHSAS18000, TLC certified;
  • Rated Capacity (20 hour rate): 225 amp;
  • Dimension (L x W x H): 10.24” x 6.65” x 9.69”;
  • Item Weight: 65 pounds;
  • Item model number: NP6-225Ah.

The battery is picking high-limit deep cycle batteries for dry outdoors, the NP6-225Ah 6V 225Ah AGM Battery might be what you need. It’s the 6-volt golf truck AGM profound cycle battery at present accessible. While you can get by with only cheap streaming lead-corrosive batteries, you will appreciate the street less voyaged all the more serenely. We prescribe at least 6 NPP batteries on the off chance that you plan on utilizing nearly everything in your RV with the battery.

As for the amp-hours, when you connect two 6-volt batteries in series to get 24 volts, the voltage adds and the amp hours remain the same. 

The battery model case is produced using Non-Conductive ABS plastic, Strong Vibration, Weather, Chemicals, Resistance to Shock, and Heat. Extremely simple to introduce and requires no support. At NPP, every battery has been carefully quality controlled. Each NPP battery will accompany a one-year guarantee. So you can buy with certainty.

What we liked

  • Very easy to install and maintenance;
  • Perfectly suited for use in a variety of recreational applications;
  • Continuous power supply;
  • It’s Non-Conductive;
  • Long-lasting battery.

What we didn’t like

  • No noticeable cons.

WindyNation 100AH 12V Battery for RV

WindyNation 100 amp-hour, 12 Volt with heavy-duty plates are settled RV Battery. It is specially designed to give off-grid power. Maintenance free design ideal for the following applications: floor cleaning, inverters, material handling, golf carts, oil and gas, recreation (RVs, offshore marine, etc), and renewable energy, aerial work platforms, remote telecom. 

Sealed, non-spill design can use the following application batteries: the Regulatory mandate is used in power equipment where air conditioners, non-spillable batteries, health care facilities, shopping centers, educational institutions, etc. are used. You can discharge and recharge hundreds or thousands of times this battery where it’s specially designed for better performance for the application.

Maximum power storage (lower quality batteries often use recycled lead) and 99.995% pure virgin lead allows for an extremely low discharge rate. At 25 degrees Celsius float life is 10 to 12 years. The 10-hour rating is 100 Amp-Hours and the 20-hour rating is 110 Amp-Hours. Offers 1-year warranty.

What we liked

  • 100 amp-hour, 12 Volt with heavy-duty plates;
  • Design providing off-grid power;
  • At 25 degrees Celsius float life is 10 to 12 years;
  • 99.995% pure virgin lead allows for an extremely low discharge rate;
  • Offers 1-year warranty.

What we didn’t like

  • No noticeable cons are available.

ExpertPower 12v 33ah Rechargeable Deep Cycle Battery

The highest quality materials available made this ExpertPower Deep Cycle Rechargeable Batteries. This RV Battery case is made of a non-conductive ABS plastic for high-impact resistance. Shock, vibration, chemical, and heat have these components of strong resistance. Lead Acid Battery is commonly used for: RV,  Solar Collectors, Electric Scooters, Lighting Equipment, Wheelchairs, Home Alarm Systems, Uninterruptible Power Supply(UPS),  General Electronics, Home Security Systems, Emergency Systems, Medical Devices and many Other Applications.

Acid is absorbed into the inside plate and thereby immobilized by a very fine fiberglass mat. With this valve controlled, the spill-proof build of batteries permits hard-free, safe operation in any location. It will ensure the safety of your home, your machine’s movements or even a personalized HOBBY, available to use the most effective batteries.

What we liked

  • Lead Acid Battery has been the most reliable and highest review;
  • 12 Volt 33 Amp/10 Hour;
  • Screw in Terminals 7.72(L) 5.16(W) 6.34(H) Total height 7.09 inch;
  • Shock, vibration, chemical, and heat have these components of strong resistance.

What we didn’t like

  • Need to charge a long time (6 to 8 hours) before running all applications properly.

Editors Note

When choosing the RV battery, we look at the common needs of an RV. An RV will require continuous power for its onboard electronic equipment. It will also require a starting power when you want to move it or you are traveling. People are embracing renewable energy; you, therefore, have to know if the battery can be recharged using solar power. Not every battery can recharge from solar panels without wastage.

The best deep cycle batteries also happen to be the best when using solar panels to recharge. But to also take care of the RV’s starting needs, we have to take into account its need for huge current draws for a short period. That is typically about 30 seconds. With that in mind, we can look at a battery’s features and match them with those of an RV’s power requirements. We, therefore, have to consider a battery’s Cold Cranking Amperes, Cranking Amperes, Reserve Capacity, and Ampere-Hour rating.

FAQs

Do these Types of Batteries Contain Enough Power to Start up a 250 Horse Cummins Diesel?

No, they are not made as a starting battery. They deliver power slowly and continuously and they provide it steady for a long time. They are designed for it. If you try to use it as a starting battery, then it can be damaged. If you want a starting battery, then you may find this helpful, our Jump Starter Lithium Ion Battery Review.

How Long are the Batteries Capable to Power up a Trolling Motor Like Minn Kota 30 lb with 2 Average Sized Adults on Board?

Actually this depends on the Volts & AH. We can’t tell specifically but we can give you an example like a 12 Volts 35 AH can hold up a 40 lb Minn Kota on a 10.5 foot Porta Bote for a few hours. It also depends on the speeds.

Are they Universal Batteries? Do I Need an Additional Charger?

The batteries are especially designed as marine batteries. They are the best in this section. But you also can use it for anything else. But for that, you need a special charger. If you use the regular charger, then you will kill your battery.

Should I Completely Discharge the Battery the First Few Times?

No, there is no need to do that. A RV deep cycle battery does not require any complete discharge at any time in its service life at all. But if you want, then you can do that.

Do the Cold and Heat Damage the Battery?

Usually No, but overheating or under cold can damage your battery.  Both of these conditions can reduce your battery life. For an example, we may tell that a fully charged battery at 80°F or 26°C should operate with 100% efficiency, at 32°F or 0°C, it turns with 65% efficiency and at 0°F or -17.8°C, it decreases  with 40% efficiency.

To What Extent do RV Deep Cycle Batteries Last? 

Deep cycle batteries and RV house batteries that are intended to store a lot of intensity so they can work over significant lots of time. Deep cycle batteries can last as long as five years whenever kept up appropriately.

Should You Leave Your RV Connected All the Time?

Indeed, you can keep your RV connected all the time. But you should check the electrolyte levels on your batteries at any rate once per month to ensure that they’re not dry or have gone low.

Does a Generator Charge an RV Battery? 

Inner Generator: The generator in an RV utilizes a converter, which changes 120 volts to12 volts, and isn’t intended to be a battery charger. The fundamental utilization of the converter is to give the 12-volt capacity to your apparatus while connected to an A/C outlet. Running the generator will charge the house batteries at a moderate rate. 

Maintenance Tips

Your battery will provide you with great power delivery and last for a longer period if you take proper care of your battery. The battery maintenance extends the battery life and keeps the performance. Here are some tips so that you can take proper care and continuously get the great service from your battery-

  • Charge your battery properly. Always keep the charge of your RV battery above 50%. If it goes below 50% anytime, charge it immediately.
  • Do not overcharge your battery. Overcharging may reduce the lifespan of your battery.
  • Charge as soon as possible after use.
  • Do not charge your battery with over or under voltage.
  • Always monitor the voltage the battery gives out by using a digital voltmeter or the built-in monitor. It will help you to take proper steps to avoid damage.
  • Check your battery on a daily basis. It will help you to find out any sign of damage or leakage. Check the battery by a professional once a week to avoid any big trouble.
  • Rinsing with water can help the battery to lessen the chance of overheating.
  • Be careful while handling the battery. Always use safety gloves and eye protective glasses to avoid contact with fluids.
  • Clean the out surface when it gets too much dirt.

Final Verdict

If you plan camping or traveling frequently, buying the best RV battery can be a great investment. You and your family or friends can have an amazing trip without any kind of interruption.

Though choosing the best one is a little bit tricky, our guideline can help you to find out what suits your needs. Don’t forget to consider ampere-hour and reverse capacity. Because these two have a huge impact on the battery’s performance.

After purchasing, your battery needs proper maintenance like- charging properly with a good charger, monitoring the voltage, fluid maintenance, cleaning and so on.

Because a good RV battery with proper caring can give you a great experience of the planned trip.

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About This Writer

liam jaxon author pic

Hi, I am responsible for the 'Homeowners Power Solutions' category. My name is Liam Jaxon and a licensed technician with 7 years of experience in vehicle batteries, electrical gadgets, and home appliances. My working experience in different residential & light commercial electrical sectors and the automobile industry helped to acquire vast knowledge in this industry.

Hi, I am responsible for the 'Homeowners Power Solutions' category. My name is Liam Jaxon and a licensed technician with 7 years of experience in vehicle batteries, electrical gadgets, and home appliances. My working experience in different residential & light commercial electrical sectors and the automobile industry helped to acquire vast knowledge in this industry.

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