2 12v Batteries vs 2 6v Batteries

[DaveMatthewsBand]

I thought the Optima were sealed and wouldn’t need venting?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[TucsonJim]

I thought the Optima were sealed and wouldn’t need venting?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I wasn't really sure if it was needed or not. So I just took a look at their website and it states the following under battery safety:



But I've seen quite a few owners who use AGMs without venting, and I've never heard of a problem. I guess if your charger malfunctioned and started to overcharge them, it could build up flammable gas. But the odds are pretty remote - Right?

Jim

[Paul & Deb]

I think if he screens the hole left by the OEM battery location, rather than fill it with solid material, that would be more than enough ventilation when you consider the now open vent in the front wall as well.

[mestubbe]

They are Optima D31M's, completely sealed. 75 Amp Hours each.

[DaveMatthewsBand]

So a total of about 112 useable amp hours and 180 lbs?

Hey if weight ever becomes an issue, one lithium like mine is 100ah usable and 29 lbs.

Difference of 150 lbs which is significant.



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Wizbangdoodle]

Lithium is the way to go if initial cost is not a factor. I've got AGM's and no venting is necessary.

I'm hoping by the time I need new batteries (8+ years) that lithiums have come down in price.

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

[Paul & Deb]

Well, this is a common topic on this and other RV forums.

A simple google search revealed dozens of responses like this:

AGM batteries must still be vented. Here's why: AGM batteries are a type of valve-regulated lead acid battery. They are “maintenance-free” in the sense of not requiring the addition of water to offset hydrogen gas released during the charging process.

As well as these:

AGM Batteries. A VRLA battery (valve-regulated lead–acid battery), more commonly known as a sealed battery or maintenance free battery, is a type of lead-acid rechargeable battery. Due to their construction, they do not require ventilation, can be mounted in any orientation, and do not require constant maintenance.


YMMV