For our Jayco JayFlight 28BHBE, we run two Duracell DURDC12-80P batteries that were purchased from BatteriesPlus. These batteries are designed for wheelchair deep cycle needs and double as a good set of deep cycle batteries for boondocking.
The absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery design allows for more, thinner lead plates to be packed into the same battery form factor (housing). This in turn provides more energy for their size, which is a good thing for boondocking. Another AGM battery boondocking advantage is they charge faster than a conventional float cell battery, allowing for shorter generator run times.
These are maintenance free, sealed lead acid batteries. Therefore, it is not necessary (or possible) to check the water levels of the batteries and add distilled water. It also keeps @sowewentdad from making the mistake of adding too much water, resulting in acid sloshing out into the battery holder and onto the support bar.
For usage on a trailer without shocks, the AGM provides an additional advantage. The tightly packed mats and plates are able to withstand shaking and vibration of the trailer better. This is a good thing when traveling across the country and counting on your batteries to work when you get to your campsite.
Prior to switching to these much more expensive Deep Cycle Batteries, we went through two sets of RV/Marine float cell batteries. These cheaper, more standard batteries only lasted two seasons before at least one battery failed resulting in damage to both batteries. If we can get four seasons out of these more expensive batteries, that would make it worth the extra expense.
@SoWeWentDad decided to stick with lead acid batteries and not upgrade to a lithium design yet. From what I understand, these would provide more energy for boondocking for the same battery form factor. However, they also require a different charging system to ensure they are handled properly. Since I am generally reacting to a battery failure while trying to get out for our next camping adventure, @sowewentdad hasn’t taken the time to research what it would take to convert to a Lithium based battery system.
@sowewentdad
So We Went to the RV Show Blog is not affiliated with Batteries Plus or Duracell.
So We Went to The RV Show ... 