Anyone have experience with AGM or GEL deep cycle batteries?

moved from technology

mockturtle wrote:
My Optima AGMs recharge very, very fast. Yes, the initial cost is higher than wet cell batteries but well worth it, IMHO.

Our 4 Optima AGMs batteries last us 7 years. Last month we replaced the batteries with the same. Hope we have the same luck with the new batteries.

I also fall into the "good intentions" group of people. One less important component to not have to bother with.

WoodGlue

If you are considering AGMs again, here's some more to consider. I am lazy and forgetful. I have the best intentions to perform all maintenance regularly on my motor home and we all know that the road to hell in paved with good intentions.

Most batteries require regular maintenance to keep them at full potential and to last as long as they "should". I found that most of the time, when I got around to taking a peek inside my batteries, you could already see the top of the plates. They always seemed to die an untimely death. Now, I have LifeLine maintenance free batteries (AGM). They haven't even been looked at in 6 years and are still going strong.

Maintenance free batteries are WAY more expensive than regular acid flooded batteries but, for those who are somewhat forgetful like I am, they are WAY CHEAPER than buying acid flooded batteries every 2 years because you didn't maintain them. Only you know which category you fit into.

You know while I understand those who like the non-maintenance AGM batteries, I gotta say that the little amount of maintenance required for a wet cell is well worth not having to pay double the amount of money for a battery that won't last any longer.

I typically have to put water in my four wet cell batteries about once every two to three months and I have to clean the terminals about twice a year. In either situation, it takes me only a few minutes of my time to keep the batteries full and clean.

Mine are now six years old and work as good as they did new. When it comes time to replace them, I'll probably duplicate what I have.

Ron

I absolutely love my Sears Platinum Group 34 AGM batteries, but at $219.00 each - are not in everyones budget. They have a non pro-rated 4 year warranty. The warranty was a big selling point for me, plus the same one is in my truck and I've never had any problems with it after 4+ years.

WoodGlue

pianotuna wrote:
Hi,

I'd take Gel batteries off the list.

X 2.

Well I got a 12v to last me 9yrs one time , flooded. So far I can get the 12v flooded, to last me round. 3/5 yrs. so I m good there . Happy-camping

Hi,

I'd take Gel batteries off the list.

My Optima AGMs recharge very, very fast. Yes, the initial cost is higher than wet cell batteries but well worth it, IMHO.