Is carrying newly wed bride into the house still common?
My wife was about 100lb at the time, but I wonder how many today's brides are 163 lb or more?
Coming to AGM batteries, I think this is one of the cases where marketing overcome common sense.
They do have some advantage, but not much apply to RV application.
Read Wikipedia
Comparison with flooded lead–acid cells[edit]
VRLA batteries offer several advantages compared with standard lead-acid batteries. The battery can be mounted in any position, since the valves only operate on overpressure faults. Since the battery system is designed to be recombinant and eliminate the emission of gases on overcharge, room ventilation requirements are reduced and no acid fume is emitted during normal operation. The volume of free electrolyte that could be released on damage to the case or venting is very small. There is no need (nor possibility) to check the level of electrolyte or to top up water lost due to electrolysis, reducing inspection and maintenance.[8]
Because of calcium added to its plates to reduce water loss, a sealed battery recharges much quicker than a flooded lead acid battery.[9][10] "From a standard car, 4WD or truck alternator they will recharge quickly from full use in about 2 to 3 hours. A deep cycle wet cell battery can take 8-12 hours to achieve only 70% to 80% of its potential charge."[11] Compared to flooded batteries, VRLA batteries are more vulnerable to thermal run-away during abusive charging.[1] The electrolyte cannot be tested by hydrometer to diagnose improper charging, which can reduce battery life.[10][12]
AGM automobile batteries are typically about twice the price of flooded-cell batteries in a given BCI size group; gel batteries as much as five times greater. VRLA batteries:
Have shorter recharge time than flooded lead-acid.[13]
Cannot tolerate overcharging: overcharging leads to premature failure.[13]
Have shorter useful life, compared to properly maintained wet-cell battery.[13]
Discharge significantly less hydrogen gas.[13]
AGM batteries are by nature, safer for the environment, and safer to use.
Can be used or positioned in any orientation.
