Re: [VAC] Batteries

[Don Horn <donhorn@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Sherry,

IN TEN WORDS OR LESS:  A pair of six volt golf cart batteries...

EXTRA WORDS:  

...wired in series, if you have room for them.

Having said that, this may be overkill for your needs, especially based on
what you've posted in the past regarding your usage.  Before you buy, I
highly recommend that you get the book "Managing 12 Volts," and/or "The
RVers' Guide to Solar Battery Charging," available from RV Solar Electric.
Either one of these can help you make a good choice, not by brand, but by
specific characteristics.  There's a simple formula for the amp hour rating
you need, based on your daily usage and the output of your solar panel, and
it's in both of these books, with slight variations.  Your needs will vary
depending on whether you want to boondock for 3-4 days at at time, a week,
or indefinitely.   

Also, some marine batteries are not true deep cycle batteries, but are
hybrids, intended to run the starter motor as well as power the
accessories--avoid this type.

I could go on.  Write me off line if you want the long version.  I've been
working on my 12V system, and will try to get photos of the results posted
on my web site when I'm done.

Don