Which is the better battery configiration

Campinfan wrote:
I am trying to learn more about 6 volts batteries versus 12 volts. I know the 6 volts can be drained further and recharged more (better lifetime). At least that is what I think is true. But it seems 12 volts have more amp hours (or minutes) (I think). So if I got 4 batteries, would you get 4 12 volts and put them parallel or 4 6 volts and wire them in series to get 12 volts and then in parallel to double the amp time? And why? I may be venturing into the Motorhome world and I have many questions.

Thank you.

For just about all intents and purposes, using two 6v GC lead batteries in your RV house is better than using two 12v lead batteries. As long as they fit (6v batteries are typically an inch or so taller). If you were thinking about using four 12v batteries, four 6v GC batteries will be better. The 6v GC battery is better designed for deeper and more frequent discharges.

If you are not boondocking more than 40-50 days PER YEAR, and you have a way of charging your lead batteries soon after each discharge (ie. solar, generator, etc), there is absolutely no problem discharging them 80% each time. The "don't let them discharge below 50%" mantra is incorrect and a myth for 99% of casual RVers. If the above sentences describe how you will use your batteries, you will never "use up" all of your batteries potential total lifetime number of cycles and you don't need to worry about your batteries getting down to 20%. One caveat I would mention: If you use your inverter a lot and/or have heavy draws on it, then lead batteries WILL give you a problem as their State of Charge gets lower and lower. This is one area where more expensive Lithium battery solutions excel.

Lithium batteries are better than lead batteries for many reasons...And if those reasons are important to you in practice (not just in theory), then Lithium batteries are an amazing solution. BUT many many many RV users don't need Lithium batteries to enjoy their RVs/TTs to their particular requirements (ie. most casual RV users).

One last thing....If you are asking about batteries, I assume it is because you are interested in boondocking (not just being plugged in at a campsite). If that is the case, you will definitely want to consider some solar on your RV as that does amazing things for your RV experience as it pertains to batteries. It effectively extends your battery AHs...It means less generator running/noise...It means no dead batteries while in storage...It extends your battery life by never having your batteries sit drained...(all of this of course depends on sunlight availability).

Good luck!
Chris