The Recreation Vehicle (RV) is the ultimate holiday companion, but it does demands proper maintenance. Of all its components, RV batteries require special attention, as unlike other parts, different ones are required for different purposes.
The focus of this article is deep cycle batteries, i.e. the batteries that supply the required voltage (12V) to your RV to keep it running. Our deep research and review will ensure you get the best deep cycle battery for RV you own.
Deep cycle, commonly known as house batteries in RV context, are used for powering the 12V needs within an RV – lights, fans, pumps, etc. These differ considerably from the starting batteries and should never be used interchangeably.
Top 6 Deep Cycle Batteries for RV Chart
| Picture | Name | Weight (in pounds) | Price | Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Universal UB121000-45978 12v 100AH Deep Cycle AGM Battery | 60 | $$ | 4.6 |
 | 2. Vmaxtanks Vmaxslr125 AGM Deep Cycle 12v 125ah SLA rechargeable Battery | 75 | $$$$ | 4.6 |
 | 3. Optima Batteries 8016-103 D34M BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Marine Battery | 43.5 | $$$ | 4.5 |
 | 4. WindyNation 12V 100 Amp-Hour (240 Minute Reserve Capacity) AGM SLA Deep Cycle VRLA Battery | 63.5 | $$$ | 4.4 |
 | 5. Exide Edge FP-AGM24DP Flat Plate AGM Sealed Marine Battery | 50 | $$$$ | 4.4 |
 | 6. ExpertPower 12v 33ah Rechargeable Deep Cycle Battery | 23.2 | $ | 4.2 |
Buying Information
There are certain terms associated with deep cycle batteries that you should familiarize yourself with in order to choose the best one.
- Amp Hours (Ah). Also referred to as battery rating, this is a measure of available chemical energy inside a battery that can be utilized. It can also be viewed as the amount of energy stored in a battery or the amount of time it will take for the battery to discharge (support your RV) while supplying constant current.
Based on technology used, deep cycle batteries are of following types:
- Flooded Batteries. A conventional lead based battery that is similar to the batteries used in cars. Usually heavy and difficult to transport, as it carries a lot of liquid inside.
- Gel Batteries. A refined form of flooded batteries, these have gel like substance which allows the units to be smaller and portable.
- AGM Batteries. Absorbent Glass Mat batteries are a significant improvement over lead acid deep cycle battery, with the electrolyte absorbed into a fiberglass mat. These are more compact, can handle higher temperature range and have slower self-discharge rates. These make for the best deep cycle battery for RV.
Top 3 Best Deep Cycle Battery for RV Reviews
1. Universal UB121000 Universal Battery
It comes in a sturdy package that gives a very good first impression about the amount of thought that has been put into its safety. Its unpacked weight is about 60 pounds and the size (12 X 6.5 X 9 inch) is fairly compact for that weight.
It is one of the best performers you have on the market. It is multipurpose, which means you can use it for your sailboat, bike, off grid power panels and of course, RVs.
It is a rechargeable, spill proof, sealed battery – easy to be mounted in any position you want. AGM is the best technology out there and when you have superb after sales service and 1 year warranty to back it up, there is no room for apprehension.
Its features, robustness, compactness and technology make it stand out from the crowd to be the best deep cycle battery for RV. The high price is a worthy investment for a long term, reliable companion for your RV.
2. Vmaxtanks SLR-125 Rechargeable Battery
Vmaxtanks is another stellar name when it comes to manufacturing long lasting deep cycle batteries that deliver top-notch performance. Packaged safely to keep away those transit damages, these are ready to get to work right out of the box.
The torqued terminals make wiring extremely easy and the military grade materials used within mean you do not have to worry about safety. Whether you are looking for a battery for your RV, household utilities or renewable systems, this one will pass the test with flying colors.
These might not be the most affordable ones out there but if you are looking for easy to use batteries meeting the safety standards that would last eight years and more, this is what you are looking for!
3. Optima 8016-103 D34M Battery
If your usage requires carrying your battery around quite a bit, weight can be a major factor in your decision making process. Most of the lighter batteries compromise a lot of the material and quality, which put your RV to risk. Optima has got a very good solution to this dilemma. Read on to find what makes the Optima 8016-103 D34M special.
Designed as a dual-purpose battery, you can use it as a jump starter or as a deep cycle battery to keep your vehicles running. Its uniquely designed SpiralCell configuration ensures safety and reliability. It has a higher shelf life compared to competition and ensures availability of power when you need it. Overall, a great 40 pound multipurpose battery to power up your RVs and boats through harsh conditions.
Now that you know what to look for while selecting the best deep cycle battery for RV, go ahead, order the battery that suits your needs the best and have a great time in your RV!
