If you’re looking for the best deep cycle battery but don’t know how to go about it, then you’ve come to the right place. Maybe you have heard of dual-purpose batteries, marine batteries units, or trolling motors of so many brands, but which one should be used. This review and guide have all the vital information that you need concerning deep cycle batteries. Additionally, we’ve highlighted the best ten deep cycle batteries on the market after thorough research.
Deep cycle batteries can be utilized for a wider range of applications. This is a versatile battery, from powering a golf cart to a vehicle and boat. It can also be used to electrical power appliances on your RV or recreational vehicles. That’s why you need to select the right battery for your applications and to help you do that, here is the list of the best deep-cycle batteries to buy.
Top 3 Deep Cycle Batteries Comparison Chart
Since different brands offer different performance and durability, you need to make the right choice. Pick from notable brands like Vmax, Optima, Mighty Max, Universal Group, Odyssey, and much more.
Contents
Top 10 Best Deep Cycle Battery Reviews 2023
Below are some of the best-rated deep cycle batteries for different applications:
| Product | Type of Cell | Voltage | Amp per hour |
| Vmaxtanks Vmaxslr125 Deep Cycle Battery | AGM | 12V | 125Ah |
| Universal Power Group UPG#45978 UB12 Deep Cycle Battery | AGM | 12V | 100Ah |
| Battle Born Batteries LiFeP04 Deep Cycle Battery | Lithium iron phosphate | 12V | 100Ah |
| Odyssey 34M-PC1500ST Trolling Dual Purpose Battery | AGM | 12V | 68Ah |
| Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery | AGM | 12V | 100Ah |
| WindyNation 100AH AGM Deep Cycle Battery | AGM | 12V | 100Ah |
| Optima Batteries 8052-161 D31M Deep Cycle Battery | AGM | 12V | 75Ah |
| Interstate Batteries Sealed Lead-Acid Deep Cycle Battery | AGM | 12V | 35Ah |
| Mighty Max ML35-12 AGM Deep Cycle battery | AGM | 12V | 35Ah |
| ExpertPower EXP12330 Rechargeable Deep Cycle Battery | AGM | 12V | 33Ah |
Vmaxtanks Vmaxslr125 AGM Deep Cycle 12V Batteries
The Vmaxtanks is a very popular and reliable battery brand. They offer different types of batteries, and their deep cycle batteries are some of the most preferred on the market. The Vmaxtanks VMAXSLR125 is sturdily made and resists both vibration and shock. Also, the battery can be installed in virtually any position, and it recharges faster than most battery models.
The 12-volt AGM battery is made of military-grade custom plates, which increases durability. And that’s one of the reasons why this unit has a long battery life of more than 6 years. The battery works exceptionally well in temperatures between -4˚F and 140˚F. Furthermore, it has a reserve capacity of 125 Ah, which is a great duration. With such amazing features, this is a good investment. This is just the start. Continue reading the best deep cycle battery review to find more amazing products.
Technical Specifications of the Vmaxtanks Vmaxslr125 AGM Deep Cycle 12V Battery:
| Features | Vmaxtanks Vmaxslr125 AGM Deep Cycle 12V Battery |
| 20Hr Capacity: | 125AH |
| RC (min): | 260 |
| Energy (kWH): | 1.700 |
| Terminal Posts: | 8mm (included) |
| Nominal Voltage: | 12V |
| Charging Voltage: | 14.4-14.9V |
| Charging Current*: | 8A-35A |
| Float Voltage: | 13.5V-13.8V |
| Operating Temperature Range: | Deep Discharge: -4~140F Charge: 14~140F Storage: -4~140F |
| Temperature Compensation: | Cycle use: -30mV/C Standby use: -20mV/C |
| Weight: | 75lb |
| Dimensions: | 12.9″w x 6.8″d x 8.5″h |
| Warranty: | 12 Months |
Pros:
- Quick recharge rate
- Outstanding 8 to 10 years lifespan
- Durable handle for easy carrying and installation
- Resists vibration and shock
- It can be installed in any position
Cons:
- The user should avoid discharging it lower than 50%, or it will stop holding the charge for long
- Quite expensive when compared to other similar models
Universal Power Group #45978 UB121000 SLA Deep Cycle Battery -12V 100Ah
Universal Power Group is another top brand with lots of amazing batteries. The Group UB121000 SLA deep cycle battery is a durable and powerful battery best suited for use with the solar wind, boats, and inverters. This battery can be mounted in any position as it is spill-proof and leak-free. It also has crank ratings of up to 13.8V
Besides, the battery has a reserve capacity of 100Ah, which ensures that the deep cycle battery lasts for a long while before recharging. Also, recharging is easy and quick. One of the unique features of this battery is that it has a very low self-discharge rate of 2% per month. The battery is also shock and vibration resistant as it is an AGM battery. Last but not least, the battery is maintenance-free, so you won’t have to add water or liquid to the battery.
Technical Specifications of the Universal Power Group #45978 UB121000 12V 100Ah SLA Deep Cycle Battery:
| Features | Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah SLA Deep Cycle Battery |
| 20Hr Capacity: | 100AH |
| Voltage: | 12V |
| Batteries: | 1 12V battery required. (included) |
| Weight: | 57 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 16.4 x 12.8 x 12.6 inches |
| Warranty: | 1 Year Warranty |
Pros:
- Resists both shock and vibration
- Mountable in any position
- It delivers a lot of power
- Faster recharge rate
- 1-year warranty
Cons:
- It doesn’t have a long lifespan compared to other batteries on this list
- Shouldn’t be discharged more than recommended, or it will lose maximum charge
Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery
If you’re looking for a rugged and high-performing battery, then you will love the Battle Born LiFeP04 deep cycle battery. This battery is ruggedly constructed to put up with tough outdoor conditions. It functions well in both extreme cold and hot surroundings. With such features, this is the best deep cycle battery for RV, van, and marine applications.
The Battle Born LiFeP04, an excellent deep cycle battery, offers a voltage of between 14.4V and 14.6V, which is enough to run most recreational appliances on your boat, RV, or van. Since this is an AGM battery, you can use it on any terrain without worrying, as it is spill-proof, leak-free, vibration-resistant, and shock-resistant.
A unique feature of this battery is its lithium-ion technology. This technology allows the battery to remain charged even after a whole year. Apart from that, the battery recharges quicker and lasts longer. So, you can fully rely on this battery to deliver reliable power. On top of that, the manufacturer offers a 10-year warranty. This makes it one of the most popular deep cycle batteries on the market.
Technical Specifications of the Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery:
| Features | Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery |
| Voltage: | 12 Volt Battery |
| Cycles*: | 3000- 5000 Cycles* |
| Weight: | 29 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 12.75 x 6.875 x 9 inches (L x W x H) |
| Warranty: | 10 Year Warranty |
Pros:
- Rugged construction
- Has the ability to hold the charge for more than a year
- Performs well in extreme temperature conditions
- It can be installed in any position
- Maintenance-free battery
- Lightweight unit for easy transportation and installation
- 10-year warranty
Cons:
- This battery is very expensive
- Users have complained about the housing not being as durable as it should be
Odyssey 34M-PC1500ST Trolling Thunder Marine Dual-Purpose Batteries
The Odyssey 34M-PC1500ST trolling marine battery is one of the best dual-purpose batteries. You can use this battery to start your boat or power electrical appliances on your RV. The battery is sturdily made and can withstand daily wear and tear. Thanks to AGM technology that makes it be spill-proof, leak-free, vibration, and shock-resistant.
The best thing about this battery is that it has the highest recharge efficiency as it can hold the charge for up to 2 years. Additionally, it has a longer service life of 3 to 10 years and a warranty of 3 and 4 years. You can use this battery in extremely low temperatures of up to -40˚F and very high temperatures of up to 176˚F. With high cold-cranking amps of 880, this battery can be utilized for a wider range of applications. Aside from that, you don’t need to maintain this battery.
Technical Specifications of the Odyssey Dual Purpose Battery – 34M-PC1500ST:
| Features | Odyssey TROLLING Thunder deep cycle marine battery |
| Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): | 850 |
| Pulse (5-second) Hot Cranking Amps (PHCA): | 1500 |
| 20Hr Nominal Capacity (Ah): | 68 |
| Reserve minutes: | 135 |
| Length: | 10.85 |
| Width: | 171.7 |
| Height: | 198.6 |
| Weight: | 49.5 |
| Terminal: | SAE and 3/8″ stud (pos) 5/16″ stud (neg) |
| Extreme temperature tolerant: | 176 degree Fahrenheit |
Pros:
- Carry handle makes lifting and installation easy
- The longer shelf life of 2 years without recharging
- Recharges very quickly
- It can be mounted at any angle
- It can be utilized for both starting and deep cycle applications
- Great temperature tolerance
Cons:
- Somehow expensive when compared to other models
Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery -12V
Particularly designed for solar energy storage applications, the Renogy 12V 100Ah/200Ah deep cycle AGM battery is one of the best units for high-quality performance. The battery is maintenance-free, leak-proof, and spill-proof. This means that it will last a very long while without being maintained. Also, it resists both vibration and shock. Thus it is great for different terrains.
The Renogy deep cycle battery has a low self-discharge rate. Because of this, it can hold the charge for at least 9 months. This is exceptional considering many similar batteries don’t hold the charge for that long. Moreover, the battery can be installed in any position, and it has a handle for easy carrying of the battery. With all of these amazing functions and many more, this is a good battery for trailers, solar energy storage, and RVs.
Technical Specifications of the Renogy Deep Cycle Batteries:
| Features | Renogy Deep Cycle Battery 12V-100Ah |
| Battery Capacity: | 100Ah@10hr-rate to 10.8V @25°C |
| Nominal Voltage: | 1500 |
| Float Charging Voltage: | 13.5-13.8V |
| Terminal: | 3/8th M8 bolts with 1.25mm thread pitch |
| Length: | 13.0 |
| Width: | 6.8 |
| Height: | 9.0 |
| Weight: | 66lbs |
| Operating Temperature: | Discharge: -15~50°C Charge: 0~40°C |
| Container Material: | ABS |
| Maximum Charging Current: | 40A |
| Maximum Discharge Current: | 1200A (5S) |
Pros:
- Vibration and shock-resistant
- Spill-proof and leak-proof
- Mountable at any angle
- Low self-discharge
- It has a safety feature that prevents over-discharging
- It can be used for different applications
- Excellent reserve capacity of up to 100Ah
Cons:
- The battery is somehow heavy
- It is expensive compared to other batteries
WindyNation 100Ah 12V AGM Best RV Deep Cycle Battery For Solar
If you’re looking for versatility, then the WindyNation 100Ah 12V AGM deep cycle battery is a great option. This battery is designed to deliver constant power for different applications such as RV, boats, solar systems, UPS, portable tools, telecommunications, and much more. The WindyNation 100Ah is a sealed lead-acid; thus, it is maintenance-free. This also means that it doesn’t leak or spill. Moreover, the battery can be mounted in any position.
Technical Specifications of the WindyNation Dest Deep Cycle Battery- 100Ah 12V AGM:
| Features | WindyNation Best Deep Cycle Batteries |
| Battery Capacity: | 100Ah |
| Nominal Voltage: | 12V |
| Float life: | 10 to 12 years at 25 degrees Celsius |
| Length: | 13.0 |
| Width: | 6.8 |
| Height: | 8.7 |
| Weight: | 66lbs |
| Operating Temperature: | 25 degrees Celsius |
Apart from performing at a high level, this battery has a very low discharge rate of 2% per month and maximum energy storage systems. As a result, you can relax knowing that the battery’s energy will not be expended easily when not in use. It comes with an outstanding float lifespan of 10 plus years. On top of that, the manufacturer provides a 1-year warranty.
Pros:
- Durable construction with heavy-duty plates
- Very low discharge rate
- Excellent float lifespan of 10 to 12 years
- RV deep cycle batteries can be installed in any position
- Easy battery management system
- Non-spillable ad leak-proof design
- Quicker recharge time
- It can be used for a wider range of applications
- 1-year warranty
Cons:
- It cannot be used as a starter battery but just for powering devices
- Quite expensive
Optima Batteries 8052-161 D31M BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Battery
The Optima D31M BlueTop battery is ideal for a person looking for a powerful and durable dual-purpose battery. This unit can be used for both starting and deep cycles. It is also versatile and suitable for water, surface, and air use. It can put up with extreme environmental conditions.
Featuring a reserve capacity of 155 minutes, you will get constant power for your appliance over a long period. Besides, it is an AGM battery, which can be installed in any position and won’t spill or leak. In addition, maintaining this battery is easy as you don’t need to add water or liquids to it. As stated earlier, this is the right deep cycle battery that can be used anywhere and on different terrains as it is both vibration and shock-resistant.
If you want nothing less than a reliable dual-purpose battery, then this is the battery for you.
Technical Specifications of the D31M BlueTop Deep Cycle Battery 8052-161, Optima Batteries:
| Features | Optima Batteries D31M Bluetop Starting & Deep Cycle Battery 8052-161 |
| Post Type: | Dual SAE & 5/16 Stainless Stud |
| CCA: | 900 Amp |
| Reserve Capacity @25 Amps: | 155 Minutes |
| C20 Capacity: | 75 Ah |
| Width: | 6.56 in |
| Length: | 12.81 in |
| Height: | 9.38 in |
| Case Material: | Polypropylene |
| Internal Resistance: | 0.0025 |
| CA: | 1125 Amp |
| MCA: | 1125 |
| Group Size: | BCI: 31 |
| Case Color: | Light Gray |
| Cover Color: | “OPTIMA” Blue |
Pros:
- High reserve capacity allows the battery to run for hours
- Easy to mount at any angle
- Maintenance-free battery
- Leak-proof and spill-proof design
- Sturdy and heavy-duty construction
- Dual-purpose battery for starting and deep cycle
- It is resistant to vibration and shock
- 24-month warranty
Cons:
- This battery is quite heavy
- It is expensive
Interstate Batteries DCM0035 Sealed Lead-Acid Deep Cycle Batteries
The Interstate Batteries DCM0035 sealed lead-acid battery is a wonderful product for individuals looking for a compact, powerful deep cycle battery. It weighs 23.8 pounds, which makes it easy to install and transport. Due to its compact design, this battery can be utilized for various applications such as medical devices, mobility, agriculture, and lighting devices.
This is a sealed acid battery, which implies that it is maintenance-free as it doesn’t spill or leak. It can also be installed in any position or angle. This is a nice battery that will be used on water, surface, or air as it is great at resistance to both shock and vibration. So, no matter the application and its hardships, this battery will still deliver great power and stand the test of time.
Whether you’re located in a very cold environment or in hot surroundings, the DCM0035 sealed lead-acid battery will still perform at a high level. However, if you want more amp hours, this is not the battery for you.
Technical Specifications of the Interstate Batteries DCM0035:
| Features | Interstate Sealed Lead Acid (AGM) Deep Cycle Battery |
| CCA: | 315 Amp |
| Amp Hour Capacity: | 35 |
| Chemistry: | Sealed Lead Acid AGM |
| Voltage: | 12 Volts/35 AH |
| Length: | 7.75 |
| Polarity: | |+||||||-| |
| Height: | 7 |
| Width: | 5.2 |
Pros:
- The compact and portable unit
- Easy to install
- Sealed battery design
- Mountable in any position
- Can withstand extreme temperature conditions
- Resistant to vibration and shock
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Not suitable for use on a golf cart
- Not a good option for those who need maximum amps
Mighty Max Battery ML35-12 Deep Cycle AGM Battery
Mighty Max ML35-12 deep cycle battery is another great battery for individuals looking for an affordable deep cycle battery. This battery is highly recommended for trolling motors as it performs well in extreme cold and cold environments. Even though this battery is not the most durable, it has a faster recharge rate and a low self-discharge rate. This means it will charge quickly but hold the charge for a long period of time.
The Mighty Max ML35 AGM battery is also vibration and shock-resistant. Therefore, it can be used on uneven terrain but will still defy bumps and knocks. It is also leak-proof and spill-proof. Thus it can be mounted in any position. What we like most about this battery is its compact and lightweight design. This implies you can use it to power your small boat or RV. This is a good investment with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a one-year warranty.
Technical Specifications of the Mighty Max Battery – ML35-12:
| Features | Mighty ML-35 AGM Max Battery |
| Voltage: | 12 Volt |
| Amperage: | 35 AH |
| Chemistry: | SLA, AGM |
| Weight: | 23.15 Lbs |
| Dimensions: | 7.68 inches x 5.16 inches x 7.13 inches. |
| SLA: | 12 |
| Warranty: | 1-year |
Pros:
- Works great in different temperatures and weather
- It can be set up in any position
- Faster recharge rate
- Rechargeable maintenance-free battery
- Excellent at resisting shock and vibration
- Affordable battery
- 1-year warranty
Cons:
- It doesn’t hold the charge for long
ExpertPower EXP12330 12V 33Ah Deep Cycle Battery -Rechargeable
ExpertPower EXP12330 12V rechargeable deep cycle battery can be used for a wider range of applications such as in emergency systems, solar power systems, medical devices, UPS, home alarm systems, general electronics, and much more.
Despite having a compact and lightweight design, the battery is very durable as it is made up of a high-impact resistant non-conductive ABS plastic battery case. This material is durable and will defy daily wear and tear. In addition, the battery is easy to install and can be mounted at any angle. Thanks to its spill-proof and leak-proof design.
ExpertPower EXP12330 can reliably operate in different conditions as long as they fall between -40˚F and 140˚ F. The best part is that you don’t need to maintain this battery as it is maintenance-free. At such a great price with amazing features, this is a good investment for running different applications.
Technical Specifications of the ExpertPower Deep Cycle Battery EXP12330:
| Features | ExpertPower 12V Rechargeable Batteries |
| Voltage: | 12 Volt |
| Amperage: | 33 AH |
| Operational Temperature: | Discharge-( -40 °C) to +60 °C |
| Recharge Temperature: | (-20°C) to +50 °C |
| Weight: | 23.2 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 7.7 x 5.2 x 6.3 inches |
| Battery Type: | 12 Volt 33 Amp/10 Hour |
Pros:
- Durable construction for longevity
- Easy to install
- Lightweight design for easy transportation and installation
- Mountable in any position
- Maintenance-free battery
- Wide temperature range for reliable performance
- Shock and vibration resistant
Cons:
- It doesn’t hold the charge for long when idle
- Low amps per hour rating of 3Ah
Deep Cycle Battery Buying Guide
With so many deep cycle batteries being offered on the market, you need to choose the best deep cycle battery for your needs and applications. For this to happen, you need to know the different types of deep cycle batteries available, what features to look for, and how to differentiate a good battery from a bad one. This review helps you make an informed choice.
Types of deep cycle batteries
There are different types of deep cycle batteries, and they are as follows:
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AGM batteries
AGM in full means Absorbed Glass Mat. This is the most preferred deep cycle battery on the market. The battery is very efficient in performance as it improves its discharge and recharge capabilities. Absorbed Glass Mat batteries are similar to VRLA batteries, with the only difference being that they are more advanced.
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Sealed Lead-Acid batteries
Another popular deep cycle battery is the sealed lead-acid battery. This is also a very popular type of battery, and it is also referred to as Valve Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA) battery. This battery produces energy through the utilization of oxygen and nitrogen. These batteries are normally vibration and shock resistant because they have a gel inside.
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Flooded Lead Acid battery
Flooded lead-acid batteries differ slightly from the first two batteries as they are unsealed and feature a container with distilled water and acid. Because of this, this battery needs regular maintenance and can spill. However, this battery delivers great power, which is ideal for high-end needs.
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Lithium-ion batteries
Lithium-ion battery models are the most recent on the market. These batteries are great at saving energy and delivering great power output. They are also extremely durable and can withstand different weather conditions. Above all, these batteries are lightweight. However, they are also costly and hard to find.
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Gel batteries
Gel batteries are very expensive. Thus, not many people cannot afford them. These batteries are costly because they are durably made. In addition, they are great at resisting both shock and vibration. That’s why they are preferred for marine and aircraft. Unlike other battery types, Gel batteries don’t need maintenance and can resist cold and hot temperatures. The only challenge with this battery is that they have less power.
What to consider when buying deep cycle batteries
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Size and weight
When choosing a battery, consider its weight and size. A small battery will usually weigh less and won’t be a burden when installing it in your RV, boat, or golf cart. But you should always consider your battery compartment size before purchasing a battery.
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Amp-hours
Amp-hour rating is important as it determines how long the battery will last before recharging. Most batteries last for at least 3 hours, with some going for even 10 hours or more. Take your time and pick the right battery for your activity.
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Voltage
Voltage indicates how much power is present for use. For most automobiles, electric vehicles, electrical equipment, and boats, a 12V battery is just fine. But a 24V or 36V will be the best option for high-end use.
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Vibration and shock-resistant
A good deep cycle battery should be able to handle vibration and shock, or it will deteriorate quickly. That’s why getting a sealed battery that doesn’t leak or spill is vital.
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Performance in extreme conditions
Some batteries may fail to perform in extremely cold or hot conditions. Find out if the battery performs well in your environment. Most deep cycle batteries will deliver great power in both extremely cold and hot environments.
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Charge time
How long does the battery take to recharge? A good battery should not take more than 4 hours to recharge. Some batteries take up to 8 hours or even 24 hours to fully recharge. This can be quite challenging, especially if you intend to use the battery daily.
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Warranty
Don’t just buy from any brand, as some brands are not reliable. Consider buying not just the best deep cycle battery on a budget; it must have a proven track record and warranty.
Conclusion
Even though there are many deep cycle batteries to choose from, ensure that you select a battery that serves your purpose and is within your budget. Some batteries are great for RVs, boats, solar grids, automobiles, and golf carts, while others are more suitable for high-end use. Our list above features some of the best deep cycle batteries on the market. I hope you’ve found a battery of your choice and budget.
FAQs
What is a deep cycle battery?
This battery is designed to be repeatedly deeply discharged from the majority of its capacity to provide steady power over a long period. Unlike car batteries or starting batteries, deep cycle batteries usually discharge a majority of their capacity without damaging themselves. Also, these batteries give a consistent stream of energy which starting and traditional batteries.
Is an AGM battery a deep cycle battery?
AGM batteries are deep cycle batteries. Actually, AGM batteries are one of the types of deep cycle batteries. Other types include gel batteries, lithium batteries, and flooded batteries. AGM batteries are the most preferred type of deep cycle batteries because they are low maintenance. Some types of batteries require adding water and some other liquids. With AGM technology, you won’t face such challenges, and that’s why many people prefer them.
How should I get the best performance out of my deep-cycle battery?
Deep cycle batteries can last even longer when well-maintained and utilized. If you want to get the best performance out of your deep cycle battery, here are some of the tips to follow. The first thing to do is always to check the charge. Always charge the battery before its charge level is below 50%. Secondly, after using the battery for a long and recharging it, allow it to rest and cool down before reusing it. Another thing to do is to prevent battery sulfation. When left unchanged for a long period of time, the lead may sulfate and get crystallized. This prevents the battery from holding. Thus you should charge your battery from time to time, even if it’s not in use.
Is it okay to overcharge a deep cycle battery?
No, it is not. Overcharging and undercharging a deep cycle battery lowers its durability and performance. Yes, you can overcharge the battery, but you will greatly lower the overall capacity and lifespan of the battery. As a result, you should avoid overcharging to get the best out of the battery. One of the ways to prevent overcharging the battery is to purchase the ideal battery charger for your unit. Also, when the weather is hot, lower the charging voltage a bit. This is because warm batteries take to power more quickly.
How many years will my deep cycle battery last?
This depends on the type of battery. Since deep cycle battery features different battery types, the durability of the battery will vary from one battery to another. For instance, AGM batteries last between 4 and 7 years. Note that the materials and construction of the AGM batteries also differ from one brand to another. Some battery models will last for less than 3 years, while others may last up to 10 years.