AGM batteries?

What do agm' s vent, what gas? They will be stored in an inside compartment. And yes we may use big draw items, hair dryers etc. Don't know yet how deep the compartment will be.

I am at 8 years on my lifeline AGM batteries in my Lance with zero issues. and yes i do have 200 watts of Solar

AGM batteries become standard in latest years of Mercedes.
When flooded batteries by Varta could last 10, 13, even 17 years, the owners of AGM seldom report more than 5 years before they need to break the bank for a new one.
My flooded Sam's batteries lasted 12 years, neglected for long months in storage.

I have two 6V Trojan T-105's. With proper care, they should last well beyond 10 years. Not very much watering when charged properly with temperature compensation.

joe&julie81 wrote:
Is it imperative to have AGM batteries with a solar set-up?

Not at all. Just make sure they are located in a vented space and top the water off every 6 months or so with distilled water. Batteries don't know or care if they are being charged by a solar charge controller or 110v power converter.

joe&julie81 wrote:
Is it imperative to have AGM batteries with a solar set-up?

I sure hope not.

What are you going to power?
Any idea of how many amp hours you consume over night?
How many watts of solar?
Heavy inverting to micro, toaster, hairdryer?
Do you have room for the taller GC2 at 11.5 or so inches of height?

You can use regular old 12 or 6 volt batteries no problem. AGM's are just better batteries. They charge faster and can supply more power faster. The latter being important when using a inverter for big draws. AGM's don't hardly off gas at all. They are more resistant to vibrations. If they are taken care of they should last longer. JMHO

The price difference gets you low maintenance no watering and the ability to have them in a confined space where watering is difficult or impossible. When charged properly they dont gas so they can be used in the living area vs a vented area. They do seem to be preferred when doing heavier amp draws while inverting.

Wet cell GC2 are cheap, effective and good for long somewhat slower discharges such as a golf cart would do. Two GC2 is a common first step in dry camping upgrades.

no you don't need AGM's for solar. I do have AGM but for me I just like the maintenance free aspect. I also have a very tight battery compartment and flood grp31 6v batteries wouldn't fit but the 6v AGM's have lower terminals so they fit.