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seraphim's avatar
seraphim
Explorer
Aug 17, 2013

House/solar battery opinions

My current battery space is 20"L x 14"w x 10"H

Going solar, and want to packs as much AH in there as I can (reasonably). Currently looking at 250 - 300. Price is not THE deciding factor, unless all else is equal.

I don't have experience with a lot of different companies, so I don't know who may a poor reputation. Some I am looking at:


http://www.apexbattery.com/group-8d-gel-solar-battery-solar-batteries.html $609 + $109 shipping)

http://www.atbatt.com/product/23216/sla/power-sonic/12v-150ah/battery#tabs ($774 for 300ah no nipping)

http://www.batterygiant.com/Product/8D%2DGEL (allegedly $577 (maybe $669) for 225AH can pick up locally)

http://www.mastervolt.com/marine/products/agm-slimline-12v/agm-sl-12-150/#specifications (can fit 2 185AH units in my space - haven't found an online price yet, which tells me something lol)

Any thoughts on these, or others you are aware of?

179 Replies

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  • westend's avatar
    westend
    Explorer
    Aug 18, 2013
    Not really ready for "unveiling", my new battery box, yet, but in the interest of the OP.....:B

    The box has two GC2 6v's inside. It measures (interior) 20"l x 11"w x 12 1/4"h.



    The box is a replica of a Wells Fargo strong box. More details later.

  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Aug 17, 2013
    4x Trojan T-125. 2 is 12v 240 Ah, 4 is 480 Ah.
    T-145 would give a bit more but is taller.

    Might need to roll the RV down to the battery store. Buy only if they fit.

    T-125 is a wet cell. If checking water will be near impossible consider same size AGM or a watering system.

    http://www.trojanbattery.com/Products/T-1256V.aspx
  • seraphim's avatar
    seraphim
    Explorer
    Aug 17, 2013
    Smkettner

    Yea, I could swing it, but a quick search showed 200ah - some 225 - batteries - have you a specific battery in mind to achieve 480ah?
  • seraphim's avatar
    seraphim
    Explorer
    Aug 17, 2013
    I measured closely, but can shift things around a bit. I might not be able to go wider AND higher r - one or the other. Unless I do an it of reframing....
  • pianotuna's avatar
    pianotuna
    Nomad III
    Aug 17, 2013
    mena661 wrote:
    I would take any GEL batteries off your list. Too picky with charging requirements.


    X2, Over charge just once and permanent capacity lost is the end result.

    How deep are your pockets? LI FE is the king for capacity currently.
  • mena661's avatar
    mena661
    Explorer
    Aug 17, 2013
    I would take any GEL batteries off your list. Too picky with charging requirements. If you have cash to burn on AGMs, I would stick with Trojan, Lifeline, Deka, or Fullriver. Maybe get some Universal's if you want to save a little cash. My pick would be Fullriver because they make Rolls Surrette's AGM line from what I understand.

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