How long do we want batteries to last ?
IMO, and IME, nothing is simpler to maintain than LA RV batteries. When connected to a decent charger, and watered once...maybe twice a year, and maybe hosed off once in a while, they last an easy 8-1...
Forum Discussion
To get a fair comparison of battery life, it's probably important to compare apples to apples..
For instance, how do you use your batteries? Are you a boondocker? If so, do you regularly use high wattage appliances like toasters and MW? If so, how much? Do you spend most of your time in hot weather?
If on solar, and days get cloudy, do you cut back your usage to the point that you do not draw them down below 50%?
As for when to retire them, do you decide it's better to replace them after 4-5 years when they show signs of weakness, or do you cut back on your use and try to extend their lives? (It's hard for me to imagine you replace them at 10 years simply because they're old) Is money an object? Can you afford batteries every 5 years, or are you just conservative and like to keep them longer?
I'm not asking for answers to each and every question.. just tossing out a line to see if my thoughts are relevant when discussing battery life. I'm not saying I abuse my batteries, but my usage and comfort is more important to me than extracting the most years I can from them.
For instance, how do you use your batteries? Are you a boondocker? If so, do you regularly use high wattage appliances like toasters and MW? If so, how much? Do you spend most of your time in hot weather?
If on solar, and days get cloudy, do you cut back your usage to the point that you do not draw them down below 50%?
As for when to retire them, do you decide it's better to replace them after 4-5 years when they show signs of weakness, or do you cut back on your use and try to extend their lives? (It's hard for me to imagine you replace them at 10 years simply because they're old) Is money an object? Can you afford batteries every 5 years, or are you just conservative and like to keep them longer?
I'm not asking for answers to each and every question.. just tossing out a line to see if my thoughts are relevant when discussing battery life. I'm not saying I abuse my batteries, but my usage and comfort is more important to me than extracting the most years I can from them.
