6 volt vs 12 volt batteries for boondocking
Hi all, While waiting for our new 28' Stealth toy hauler we're trying to figure out the best batteries to get for when we're back in the hills camped off the grid. We ordered the optional 200 watt ...
Forum Discussion
MrWizard wrote:
I might be wrong
but i am of the opinion that the more Conservative the AmpHr rating per pound of lead, aka more lead per AmpHr
the higher the quality of battery
usually one of two cases, thick plates for longevity and cycles
or surface area for low internal resistance and high discharge rates.
hybrids such as marine sit in the middle. all variations to suit different markets.
high quality comes at a price and that usually implies more lead.
your telco batteries are AGM with Lead Calcium plates
like a car battery.. designed for large currents ( 1C ) and low cycles as they usually sit in float service for most of their life, typically
10 to 15 years.
other AGM are made for high current and moderate cycles, but you pay the price in longevity. also high $$$$
deep cycle like Trojan have really thick plates of lead antimony alloy for lifespan and high cycles, but higher internal resistance and lower current.
so your choice of battery depends on intended use of course.
I see at least three camps in RV ( pun not intended ! )
1. boon dockers who want every modern appliance.. so high current draw and low cycles. this is the AGM
2. boon dockers who minimize and require only lighting and a few low current draws.. therefore low current and high cycles. this is the Trojan RE
3. those who camp with hookups and don't care less.. use a marine or car battery.
4. those who need high capacity and high cycles.. this is the world
of Lithium. problem here is cost.. how many would spend say $4000 for
a battery ? not many..
now, these are just typical use. you can get high draw and high cycles but at a price and weight. Main limitation with RV is space and weight.
