Absorbed glass mat batteries, or AGM batteries, became popular in the 1980s. They were used to power motorcycles, military, aircraft, and submarines, but now you can find them in everyday cars and trucks.
AGM batteries are a maintenance-free alternative to traditional flooded lead-acid batteries. They are designed to provide powerful bursts of starting amps and run electronics longer.
In my truck, I switched to AGM batteries due to a persistent problem with lead - acid batteries. The lead - acid ones used to drip on the fenders, which led to rusting. This was not only an eyesore but also a potential structural issue. Since making the switch to AGM battery, I've had no more problems in this regard. The sealed nature of AGM batteries prevents any leakage, offering a cleaner and more reliable option for vehicle use.
Some motorhome owners also prefer AGM battery, especially in situations where accessing and maintaining battery water levels is difficult. With AGM battery, there's no need for frequent checks and refills of water, which can be a real hassle, especially for those on the road constantly.
However, when it comes to my fifth - wheel RV, my experience and preference lean towards lead - acid batteries. I use Orema marine deep - cell lead - acid batteries. They are remarkably affordable and widely available, which is a huge plus. We mostly engage in boondocking, subjecting the batteries to quite a bit of abuse. Despite this, they have an impressive lifespan, lasting anywhere from 4.5 to 6 years. They've been able to meet all our power needs, even during winter months when our heater is constantly running. And since I recharge them daily with a generator, their performance has been consistent.
For my RV, investing in AGM battery would not bring any real benefits. They are significantly more expensive, and considering the satisfactory performance of my current lead - acid setup, it would simply result in an unnecessary drain on my wallet.
In conclusion, while AGM battery offer advantages like no leakage and reduced maintenance in certain scenarios, lead - acid batteries can still be a cost - effective and reliable choice, especially for those on a budget or with specific usage patterns like in my RV. The decision between the two ultimately depends on individual needs, usage scenarios, and cost considerations.
OREMA offers a high-quality Dual Purpose AGM Battery, a rechargeable lead-acid battery that is particularly suitable for Marine and camping vehicles. The Dual Purpose Battery can be used not only as a starter, but also to power gear such as trolling motors. Using pure non-alloying lead materials and the most advanced plate design in the industry, OREMA batteries charge faster and last longer than traditional alloy AGM Batteries, ensuring you're always ready for activities like weekend fishing.