Batteries act like electrical storage devices that serve as a source of energy. When it comes to picking out the right battery for your recreational vehicle, there are a few things you should consider. The first is whether or not you want to buy an RV or a marine battery.
An RV battery is mainly used in recreational vehicles like caravans and motor-homes; whereas a marine battery is designed specifically for boats and RVs. This means that the marine battery can be much more expensive than the RV because of its specialized design.
It is apparent that although these two types of batteries work similarly, there are numerous differences between them. Here are a few more differences between an RV battery and a marine battery.
RV vs Marine Battery - What are the Differences?
The main difference between them is that the marine battery is specially designed for boats and RVs, whereas the RV battery is mainly used in recreational vehicles.
Additionally, there are also more differences between an RV and a marine battery:
Size
While both types of batteries come in different shapes and sizes, the size of a marine battery is always bigger because they store more energy.
Capacity
Marine batteries are typically used in items that require longer periods of battery use. Thus, they come with significantly higher capacities than RV batteries.
On average, marine batteries can store 100-200 Ah (Amp-hours) of energy, whereas an RV usually stores around 70-85 Ah.
Weight
The weight is another major aspect where the two types of batteries differ. A marine battery is much heavier than an RV because it can store more energy than them.
Power
Batteries differ in terms of strength. In the case of RV marine batteries, they are designed to supply high energy levels for a long time. In comparison, recreational vehicles are used to deliver low energy levels over a longer period.
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)
CCA is the measurement used to show marine batteries and starting amps for RV batteries. RV marine batteries deliver high levels of amps, whereas an RV delivers high levels of starting amps.
Life Expectancy
Marine batteries have a shorter lifespan than recreational vehicles because they discharge energy faster. That's why marine batteries need to be replaced more often than RV batteries. However, it all depends on the quality and conditions in which you use your battery!
Polarity
Marine batteries are also polarized, but not all RV lead-acid batteries are. That means that if your appliance requires a polarized cell, you need to purchase a polarized power cord.
Charging
Marine batteries must be charged at low amperage, whereas an RV must be charged at high amperage. Therefore, it's important to make sure that your charger can handle the capacity of your power source.
Temperature Limits
The optimal temperature range for marine batteries is -40 degrees Fahrenheit up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit while the optimal temperature range for interchange RV batteries is 32 degrees Fahrenheit up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit.
Therefore, it's important to charge your solar power source at the optimal temperature or have a battery heater available in case you can't!
Maintenance
The Marine has a shorter lifespan since it loses energy more quickly rather RVs; as a result, it requires more maintenance in terms of charging, maintaining the water level, determining the state of charge, and adding distilled water.
Use
They are designed for different purposes; therefore, their uses are different. A marine energy source is primarily used in boats and RVs, whereas an RV is mainly used in automobiles.
Cost
Since a marine is more powerful than an RV, it is also more expensive. It's advisable to shop around for prices before purchasing because the cost of marine batteries is usually much lower than a vehicle.
While there are differences between the two types of batteries, we need to know more about them in detail.
What are RV Batteries?
RV batteries are primarily used for recreational purposes and are primarily found in RVs. They are used to start, run, and operate appliances in recreational vehicles.
They also provide the necessary strength for the coach batteries. Often people are unaware that Two separate battery systems operate RVs:
The Starting Battery
The starting battery is specially engineered for low voltage, high amps which makes it perfect for starting an engine due to its quick recovery after being discharged.
In contrast, a coach battery is engineered with low discharge rates and high amp capacity which makes it perfect for supplying long periods of light or power while being stored or while being charged.
House Battery
The house battery is sometimes called the auxiliary battery. It supplies energy to the lights, appliances, and outlets in your recreational vehicles. The house battery is also responsible for sending power to the coach batteries.
Recreational vehicles house batteries come in all shapes and sizes, and their amp rating is based on what kind of appliances or equipment you plan on using while traveling as follows:
Deep Cycle Batteries
Deep cycle batteries are designed to be discharged and recharged many times. It is designed with thicker plates for more capacity and can be discharged up to 50%.
Deep cycle batteries are perfect for powering appliances that require low pressure over long periods. Deep cycle batteries can be used as starting batteries as well as your need.
Cranking Battery
This battery is specially designed to deliver high amounts of strength in a short amount of time. They're often used for powering equipment such as winches and lift systems, and they're also found in most vehicles' starting batteries a few batteries.
Dual Purpose Battery
This battery is a compromise between the Deep Cycle and Cranking batteries. It's largely used for powering equipment that doesn't require an excessive amount of strength such as lights, fans, microwaves, etc.
What are Marine Batteries?
The marine cell is a type of wet cell. Lead plates acid battery with thicker plates designed for use on boats and recreational vehicles.
This lead-acid battery is dual-purpose, meaning it can have the capability of handling either deep cycling or cranking, depending on what you require to power your appliances. Other types of recreational vehicles use lead plates acid batteries primarily for starting the engine.
Marine cells come in all shapes and sizes to accommodate different needs and should be charged at low amperage, which differs from other sorts of recreational vehicles batteries that need to be charged at high amperage due to their larger capacity.
Marine optima batteries also come in different types, like:
Flooded Batteries
This battery is similar to a car battery in that it has removable caps, making it easier to add water. They also require venting but do not require any special handling or maintenance.
Gel Battery
Gel battery is sealed and non-spillable so no acid can escape even if the starting battery plates are inverted which makes them perfect for traveling.
The drawback to these batteries is that they're sometimes more expensive than other types.
AGM Battery
AGM batteries are the most expensive and popular of all marine batteries. They're spillproof and can be mounted in any position.
Furthermore, you may wish to consider marine RV batteries, which are hybrids of the deep cycle and starting batteries.
Consider a Marine RV Battery for Your RV
A marine RV battery can be a great addition for those who enjoy camping and want to explore the outdoors.
Because of its double purpose, it can operate appliances on an RV by deep cycling and cranking. This deep-cycle marine battery is often more expensive than other types of recreational vehicle batteries because they have a lot of different features.
It's spill-proof so even if you leave the one battery out in the rain it won't ruin anything. This also makes them perfect for traveling since they're so durable.
They don't require any special handling or maintenance either, so they are generally just cheaper to maintain than other types of interchange RV batteries.
One thing to keep in mind is that these batteries are larger which means you need to make sure your recreational vehicle’s battery box can hold them.
FAQs
Below are some frequently asked questions about recreational vehicles batteries compared to marine batteries.
1. Can You use a Marine Battery in an RV?
Answer: Yes, you can. One thing to keep in mind with marine batteries is that they are larger which means you need to make sure your RV's battery box can hold them before you buy one.
2. Should I Disconnect my RV Deep Cycle Battery when Plugged in?
Answer: Your batteries want to be “rested” every so often. Leaving your vehicle plugged in could cause premature aging or reduce lifespan.
3. Which Type of Battery Should I use to Power my Appliances?
Answer: No matter what kind of appliances you want to power, it's important to make sure your battery can withstand the demand.
In most cases, marine batteries are capable of powering trolling motors and lights when they are at rest, but multiple demands will reduce their capacity.
4. Can I Use an RV Truck Battery on My Boat or RV?
Answer: No. Marine batteries are designed specifically for boats and RVs whereas a recreational vehicles truck battery is designed for vehicles.
5. Do I Need to Disconnect My Solar Panels Before Charging the RV House Batteries?
Answer: It is not necessary to disconnect your solar panels when charging your RV's house battery. In order to charge from another outlet, you must disconnect your solar panels.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a battery to control your recreational vehicles, boat, or other recreational vehicle and want one that can handle both deep cycling and cranking, then the choice is up to you, what you need.
An RV battery is designed to provide energy for an extended period, whereas a marine battery has more strength but needs regular charging. Choosing the best option for you depends on your application and the type of vehicle.
In this article, we discussed several aspects of RV and marine batteries. We hope you find the information in this article to help you make your decision and save money.
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