Looking for input on economical 12v deep cycle batteries.

[Winged_One]

Replacing 2 12v deep cycle batteries for the RV.

Almost never set up without 30 or 50 amp service.

Would like to keep the cost at less than $180 for the pair.

What suggestions/recommendations do you have for reasonably priced 12v deep cycle batteries, limiting size to about 12 inches wide?

TIA

[valhalla360]

Never away from shore power: A single cheap 12v starting battery will do fine.

A little boondocking: A pair of 6v to produce 12v is the cheapest option for true deep cycle batteries.

[GordonThree]

If you can find an Interstate warehouse, you can sometimes buy cosmetic reject batteries for cheap. Stuff like a broken carry handle or torn / missing information label makes it hard to sell in a retail store.

[theoldwizard1]

MEXICOWANDERER wrote:
Disconnected from shore power a pair of group 27 batteries will do just fine for 500-road-miles powering the refrigerator. But not suitable for say two overnights on the road. A single scrimping night, yes. But no large loads. Three lights max at a time on for no more than three hours.

I have to concur with Mex. For a single overnight followed by a proper charging, your good.

Sam's Club has their Group 27 marine "dual purpose" batteries on sale until the end of the month for LESS than the regular automotive starting batteries.

[MEXICOWANDERER]

Seldom boondocks, wants thrifty service. A pair of engine starting batteries subjected to HALF the cycle depth will last eight times as long as a pseudo cycle RV battery. A 20% DOD with a pair of CAR group 27's is a lot of energy.

How long is the free exchange with a Costco auto battery?
substantial price difference between an auto group 27 and an RV group 27.

[theoldwizard1]

NMDriver wrote:
I have used the same 2 WalMart Marine Deep Cycle batteries for the RV and the boat for 4-5 years.

I am glad they work for you, but those are not TRUE deep cycle batteries. They are dual purpose.

Boon Docker wrote:
I think you will have a tough time trying to find true 12v deep cycle batteries for $90 each.
You could get two GC-2 (6 volt - 220-230 AH) deep cycle for about $180.

If you want cost effective, TRUE deep cycle batteries, you can not beat a pair of 6V golf cart batteries.

[camper19709]

If your rig is set up for 2 batteries get 2 marine deep cycle batteries from COSTCO, SAMS Club or Walmart. Should be good to go.

[BFL13]

Look at an Interstate dealer's for an "Econo-Power" 27DC. I got one for less than half price of a new 27DC at Walmart, and it seems to be just as good when put in service.

If on full hook-ups that will get you by for years. If you have a trailer you do need a battery if you ever move (DOT Law) so your emergency breakaway will work, so you need some sort of 12v battery.

[Almot]

donn0128 wrote:
If you dont need the power simply buy one and be done with it.

x2. Buy one. The cheapest you find.

[billyray50]

midnightsadie wrote:
I,ve used wal mart marine deep cycle batteries for years they hold up just fine, remember twice a year pull out and check the water level ,no water in any battery will kill it.

Good advice but instead of pulling out batteries I installed this system.

[MEXICOWANDERER]

A pair of COSTCO

Automobile starting batteries

Size group 27

You definitely do not need expensive almost deep cycle batteries

Disconnected from shore power a pair of group 27 batteries will do just fine for 500- road-miles powering the refrigerator. But not suitable for say two overnights on the road. A single scrimping night, yes. But no large loads. Three lights max at a time on for no more than three hours.

The batteries will have a multi-year warranty plus Costco's refund "The colors clash" policy. Take the refund and buy Cyclable RV batteries next time.

Engine starting batteries use less water than RV batteries.

They are a deal-maker according to your budget.

[lj2654]

rural king has some good batteries for good prices.

[midnightsadie]

I,ve used wal mart marine deep cycle batteries for years they hold up just fine, remember twice a year pull out and check the water level ,no water in any battery will kill it.

[time2roll]

Single battery from walmart or costco is fine.

[GordonThree]

Just curious, why do you need two if you're never without hookups?