Deep cycle RV battery types Not all batteries for solar panel https://uk.renogy.com/blog/what-size-solar-battery-do-i-need-in-the-uk/ are the same. Here are the four main types of deep cycle batteries that you can choose from. Lead-acid batteries Flooded lead-acid batteries are the most basic type of RV battery and have been around for over a hundred years! They are the least expensive battery option, but they do have a few drawbacks including their large size, long charge time, and relatively short life. They’ll also require a good deal of maintenance like routinely adding distilled water and cleaning off corrosion. Flooded batteries are prone to off-gassing, which is the release of toxic gasses. This can be dangerous if your batteries are stored inside your RV. However, these batteries can be cost-effective for more casual campers who aren’t cycling the battery often. Most lead-acid batteries last around 400 cycles, with one cycle equalling one charge and discharge. Gel batteries A gel battery is similar to a lead-acid battery but contains silica in the electrolyte, which creates a gel. Gel batteries are more expensive than lead-acid batteries but have a better deep cycle performance. You don’t have to worry about any off-gassing nor maintenance with gel batteries, but they are far more finicky when it comes to charging. You’ll want to keep an eye on it or have a smart charging device that stops the charge when full because overcharging can severely damage these batteries. Absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries Like gel batteries, AGM batteries use similar technology to lead-acid batteries but don’t require maintenance and upkeep. They don’t have the same hazards that lead-acid batteries do, can sit in storage longer, and have better deep cycle performance. Compared to gel batteries, they are slightly more expensive and have a larger capacity, but have a shorter life expectancy. Lithium-ion batteries Lithium-ion RV batteries are the newer kid on the block. They are the most expensive option but boast benefits like higher charging efficiency, longer lifespan, deeper depth of discharge, and a lighter weight. Lithium-ion batteries are typically rated for anywhere between 3,000 and 5,000 cycles, with some lasting as long as 10,000 cycles. 6-volt RV batteries vs. 12-volt RV batteries Along with battery type, you also have two battery sizes to choose from— 6-volt and 12-volt. Since RVs run on 12-volt power, you can achieve this with either one 12-volt battery or two 6-volt batteries connected in series. So which is the best RV battery option? Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding between a 6-volt and 12-volt setup.