How to Buy RV Batteries

RV (recreational vehicle) batteries come in many different types, and what type is best depends on the useage and conditions the RV will be exposed to. Unlike cars, RV’s use multiple batteries. These batteries are used to power many different systems, both while the vehicle is running and when it is off. The most common types of batteries are the regular flooded electrolyte battery, the gel type battery, and the absorbed glass matt (AGM). There are also 6- and 12-volt battery options for RV’s. This article will give you information about the different types of batteries, and help you determine which battery fits your specific needs the best.

If you are reading this article, you most likely know you need a new battery. But if you aren’t sure if your RV batteries need replacing, check to see if your RV has any of these symptoms of a battery in need of replacement.

Part 1 of 1: Types of RV batteries and their properties

  • Note: The battery types described below can come in 6- or 12-volt options. 12-volt batteries are more common, and are are very similar to conventional car batteries - in some cases just larger. Six-volt batteries are bigger and heavier than 12-volt, but generally have a larger amp hour capacity. The 6-volt battery is also generally much more expensive.

flooded cell battery with it

Type 1: Conventional flooded electrolyte batteries. These batteries are the same type as is most commonly seen in automobiles.

They have lead plates and a suspension fluid of water, and are usually the original battery type for many RV’s

Conventional batteries require more service than other types of batteries. The electrolyte level in the batteries can drop, and must be restored by adding distilled water.

The terminals of flooded type batteries also require more care and cleaning than other types of batteries. How difficult it is to access and clean the battery should be considered when making your decision on which type of battery to purchase for your RV.

  • Warning: The fluid inside the conventional batteries can burn skin and give off toxic fumes. Care should be taken and proper protective materials used when handling them and performing any service. If you are uncomfortable performing service on your battery, have a certified mechanic come out and service the battery for you.

gel type battery shown

Type 2: Gel batteries. Gel batteries are a maintenance-free type of battery. They require no service, as they are self-contained.

Being self-contained also means that they can be mounted at various angles, and they are generally slightly tougher than flooded cell batteries.

The gel batteries use a gel to suspend the electrolytes, instead of the water used in a flooded cell battery.

Gel batteries have a great slow discharge rate, and can perform well in higher-than-average temperatures.

The biggest problem with gel batteries is that the RV must be able to charge this type of battery - there are specific requirements for the charge rate and voltage, and failing to adhere to these requirements can cause permanent damage to the battery.

AGM battery shown

Type 3: Absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries. AGM batteries use an absorbed glass mat to wick the electrolyte solution between the battery plates. They are the second most commonly used type of battery.

AGM batteries generally last the longest of any type of battery, as long as they are not discharged completely. These batteries do not need service, and if the battery case is broken, nothing will leak out; it is completely self-contained.

AGM batteries excel in their ability to provide high bursts of amps.

This information will hopefully help you choose what battery is best for your circumstances. RV batteries are not a one-size-fits-all choice: different types of batteries will be used depending on the conditions and requirements, which are unique to every RV owner. The certified mechanics at YourMechanic are standing by to answer any further questions on this subject as needed.


Next Step

Schedule Service Battery/cables

The most popular service booked by readers of this article is Service Battery/cables. YourMechanic’s technicians bring the dealership to you by performing this job at your home or office 7-days a week between 7AM-9PM. We currently cover over 2,000 cities and have 100k+ 5-star reviews... LEARN MORE

SEE PRICING & SCHEDULING

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Recent Service Battery/cables reviews

Excellent Rating

(395)

Rating Summary
374
12
1
2
6
374
12
1
2
6

Pardeep

22 years of experience
1277 reviews
Pardeep
22 years of experience
Toyota Sienna V6-3.3L - Service Battery/cables - Los Gatos, California
Appointment was scheduled at 5 pm but Pardeeps texted that he could come earlier, which worked out great! I specified the wrong year of my vehicle. He came and immediately noticed the discrepancy. He had to go to change the part. Came back quickly and completed the work. I am very happy with his service. Final price was better than taking the car to any shops. Can't beat the convenience, service, and price. Will definitely use the service again!
GMC Yukon - Service Battery/cables - Mountain View, California
Awesome service and cool dude!. Not ro knowledgeable myself, he knew the "fix it" action in a heartbeat. Also arrived ahead of schedule.

Alex

24 years of experience
464 reviews
Alex
24 years of experience
Mazda MX-5 Miata L4-2.0L - Service Battery/cables - Austin, Texas
I got stuck in the middle of changing my own battery for the first time, Alex bailed me out, thanks, would use again!

David

35 years of experience
5 reviews
David
35 years of experience
Nissan Sentra L4-2.0L - Service Battery/cables - Largo, Florida
Great customer service. Explained everything and provided suggestions for future routine maintenance service. Wonderful experience.

Simon

28 years of experience
378 reviews
Simon
28 years of experience
Infiniti G35 V6-3.5L - Service Battery/cables - Washington, District of Columbia
He was here on time and very helpful. I thought I needed a battery cable. He checked my battery and told me my battery was bad and since I just had purchased the battery told me return it. He was able to get my car started. I will continue to use your services

Need Help With Your Car?

Our certified mobile mechanics make house calls in over 2,000 U.S. cities. Fast, free online quotes for your car repair.

GET A QUOTE

Related articles

How to Use a Battery Charger
Most Most people who have been around cars for a good chunk of their lives have experienced the hassle and inconvenience associated with a dead battery (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-handle-dead-battery-problems). Sometimes it simply happens in the owner’s driveway, which is really the best...
How to Attach a Car Battery-Mounted Power Cut-off Switch
Many Many people who store their vehicle (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/preparing-your-car-for-long-term-storage) for a length of time like to disconnect the battery from the electrical system of the vehicle. This prevents the vehicle from unintentionally draining the battery. With the battery disconnected, the risks...
Understanding Electric Car Batteries
Know how your electric vehicle's battery works to maximize its life and efficiency — and whether replacement is covered by manufacturer warranty.

Related questions

Stiff steering wheel and battery light on
The wheel bearing is an important part of the suspension as it holds the weight of the vehicle and allows the wheel to turn. If it has failed, then it should be replaced as soon as possible. With the steering...
Dash lights came on and gauges dropped to zero
Hello there, thanks for writing in about your 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT. First, I would suspect a faulty ignition switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ignition-switch-replacement), and would put that near the top of my diagnostic checklist. I also recommend a thorough visual inspection, testing...
My car would shake violently when starting, and now it won't start at all.
Hi there. The technician you went to could be on to something there with the shaking and possibly having moisture in the fuel tank. However, it sounds like you could be having an intermittent electrical component fault which can be...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com