Multiple cheap batt. Or 2 deep cycle

[Steyr223]

Hello how is everybody I have a Chevy 2500 van that I live in and I want to hook up multiple batteries to get at least 400 amp hours I figured i use about a 100 amp hours ( 10ah for 10 hrs max )
(Xbox, audio, camera system, charging many usb devices, 2ah server fans, etc.)so I would only be bringing it down to 75% discharge b4 the alternator would charge up to near charges and solar panel fully charged.
Would my thinking b correct....
Now if it is why can't I use 3 $100 batteries that rate at 120 Minutes at 25 amp hours which would be 360 minutes @ 25 amp hours (12.5 ah for 720 min which is 11 hours of use instead of 1 or 2 $300 agm deep cycle batteries that r rated at 210 amp hours.

Thanks in advance for any information I greatly appreciated

 

[john61ct]

You need batteries designed for true deep cycling, 99.99% of those sold through auto / consumer retail are fraudulently labeled.

There is a very short list of respected manufacturers of batteries truly suitable for deep cycling usage, and none are focused on big box retail nor the automotive market.

FLA is better value, more robust and longer lasting if you can go that way.

The best battery value by far is Duracell (actually Deka/East Penn) FLA deep cycle golf cart batteries, 2x6V, around $200 per 200+AH @12V pair from BatteriesPlus or Sam's Club. NAPA relabels it here: https://www.napaonline.com/en/p/NBP8144 Deka self-labeled also sold at Lowes.


Others include Rolls/Surette, Trojan, U.S. Battery, Crown and Superior.

If you truly need AGM, you will also need to spend more per Ah per year.

Odyssey, Northstar & Lifeline are the top makers there.

https://marinehowto.com/what-is-a-deep-cycle-battery

 

[Steyr223]

john61ct thanks
The deka your talking about at lowes is that an agm or just regular
Lead acid.
I trust u wouldnt post this info unless u had experience, in other words i can go buy 2 dekas at 400ah today and it would be fine
But u said if i really need agm,
I actually have no idea what i need other than 100ah in between charges on a daily basis some time 2 times a day
Please tell me what u would do to solve my problem.....cash is not an issue
Thanks

 

[Steyr223]

 

[Steyr223]

Got it .....just what i needed thanks

 

[john61ct]

Those GCs are FLA, have access to the electrolyte, need to top up with distilled water.

AGM is only needed if you need to install them on their side or in an inaccessible location or maybe high-amp usage like winching.

Do not last as long, much fussier in care requirements, higher cost per Ah.

GCs much better value.

If you want 400Ah then 4pair, each pair gives 12V 200+Ah.

65lbs each unit, need an acid proof tray, top protection from shorting and well strapped down.

john61ct thanks
The deka your talking about at lowes is that an agm or just regular
Lead acid.
I trust u wouldnt post this info unless u had experience, in other words i can go buy 2 dekas at 400ah today and it would be fine
But u said if i really need agm,
I actually have no idea what i need other than 100ah in between charges on a daily basis some time 2 times a day[emoji15]
Please tell me what u would do to solve my problem.....cash is not an issue
Thanks

 

[john61ct]

My local Batteries+ had $119 last I checked, same model just labeled Duracell.

Sam's Club, need to be a member

 

[Steyr223]

So i hooked up the 4 gc batteries
2 sets of 2 in series and both sets in parallel
I ran the truck to the set at the end or furthest away and ran my 2000 watt inverter to the set in the middle like this


Sorry the only way to attach was to take a screenshot

Anyways is this alright , or is there a better way
All 4 are in a home depot bought dewalt tote/toolbox with wheels
And are in the back of my van

I am addressing the hydrogen sulfide gasses on another form where we deal with this toxin/explosive gas while refining gold in a sulfuric cell ..but if u have any suggestions please post them.

Thanks guys and gals ....do i have to say others to

 

[john61ct]

Also must charge and discharge from the same posts

 

[Steyr223]

Thanks for the info that would seem to be the only other way

 

[Rmay635703]

If your going 100% AGM Firefly oasis batteries are the best for deep cycling

Sadly they are difficult to locate, sailing folks use them on their rigs

 

[Steyr223]

Wow what a difference i have not heard my fan come on once thank u
Now if i could figure an easy way to vent the gases as i live in the truck.... ...

 

[john61ct]

If your going 100% AGM Firefly oasis batteries are the best for deep cycling

Sadly they are difficult to locate, sailing folks use them on their rigs

Firefly Oasis are wonderful but very pricey.

Only worth paying that if you specifically need their unique ability to withstand PSOC abuse

as in your use case does not enable you to get your bank back to Full more than once every week or two

and you've ruled out LFP.

They are not hard to find, just contact OceanPlanet, Bruce is the master distributor for NA.

But there may be a waitlist depending which size unit you want.