RV batteries come in different types and sizes. Knowing how much does an RV battery weigh allows you to choose the right power unit for your rig.
Starting batteries weigh, which are usually AGM and VRLA types, range from 37 to 61 lbs. Marine batteries weigh about 60 lbs, while lithium-ion batteries weigh the lightest at around 30-35 lbs. In terms of the group size, 8D weighs the heaviest at 130-180 lbs.
Let’s explore the weight range of each type and group size below.
Table of Contents
2 Types of RV Batteries
Generally, your RV will have two kinds of batteries – starting and deep-cycle. We’ll differentiate the two batteries below.
1. Starting Battery
A starting battery provides a huge power burst for a short period to start your regular RV engine. Unlike deep-cycle batteries, starting batteries can’t stand multiple recharge/discharge cycles. You also don’t want to drain them because it’ll shorten their lifespan.
Because of their relatively high cranking power, absorbent glass mat (AGM) and valve regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries make the best starters for your RV. The weight varies from 37 to 61 lbs.
2. House Batteries
This 12 volt battery offers a consistent amount of current for a long time. This kind of deep cycle battery constantly recharges and discharges without shortening its lifespan. The lower current draws of these batteries are ideal for powering several appliances, like fans and water pumps.
The weight of a deep cycle battery is around 70 lbs on average. It’s heavy since it carries a high reserve capacity to power your appliances for long hours.
While a starting battery isn’t capable of deep-cycle applications, a deep-cycle battery can work as a starter for your engine. These batteries are called dual-purpose.
Different Types Of Deep-Cycle Batteries
Deep-cycle batteries may come in different subcategories. Here are their descriptions and weight.
1. Lead-Acid Batteries
This basic type of RV battery tends to be popular because of its friendly price. However, it’s bulky and needs a long charging time. Most of these models can last about 400 charge and discharge cycles, lasting for several years.
These wet-celled batteries come in two types: serviceable and VRLA.
Serviceable lead-acid batteries have removable caps to check the electrolytes more easily. In VLRA, the electrolytes are in a fiberglass mat or a gel.
Traditional lead-acid Group 24-31 batteries weigh around 60-70 lbs.
2. AGM Batteries
AGM is a form of lead-acid battery but with better properties. These batteries are maintenance-free and leak-proof. For safety reasons, they do have vents to protect against overcharging.
Compared to lead-acid batteries, AGM recharges faster and lasts longer, making them a more expensive option.
AGM batteries weigh almost the same as lead-acid batteries. The weight should be about 63 lbs.
3. Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries offer the most efficiency with a lighter construction. They also provide a much higher usable capacity, longer lifespan, and higher charging rate. The best of these models last up to 10,000 cycles.
However, these batteries are more expensive upfront because they’re more advanced than other deep-cycle batteries.
The weight of lithium-ion batteries is half of the lead-acid batteries. It should be around 30-35 lbs.
4. Marine Batteries
Marine batteries are typically a mix of starting and deep cycle batteries. The lead sponge plates are heavier than starting battery plates but thinner than a true deep cycle battery.
RV batteries are somewhat interchangeable with marine batteries. If you want to use a marine battery for your RV, make sure it has a bigger reserve capacity and a steady discharge. Its reserve power should be enough to power everything in your camper between charges.
A typical marine battery weighs around 60 lbs.
RV Battery Size Chart
Another way to determine how much an average battery weigh is to use a group size chart.
| Group Size | Estimated Dimensions (L x W x H) | RV Battery Weight |
| U1 | 7 x 5 x 6 inches | 22-24 lbs |
| 22NF | 9 x 5 x 8 inches | 35-39 lbs |
| 24 | 11 x 6 x 8 inches | 47-56 lbs |
| 27 | 12 x 6 x 8 inches | 59-65 lbs |
| 31 | 12 x 6 x 9 inches | 64-74 lbs |
| 30H | 13 x 6 x 11 inches | 65-96 lbs |
| 4D | 21 x 9 x 10 inches | 100-150 lbs |
| 8D | 21 x 11 x 10 inches | 130-180 lbs |
| L16 | 11 x 7 x 15 inches | 119-123 lbs |
Do Batteries Weigh More When Charged?
Technically, yes! A charged battery may weigh a bit more than a used one because of its higher internal energy condition. The difference in weight is unnoticeable, though. Current scales can’t even measure it.
The reason is some bits of the battery may vaporize.
Here’s a video experiment to show whether there’s a change in weight with charged batteries.
Conclusion
So, how much does an RV battery weigh? It depends on its type and group size. The heaviest RV batteries tend to be lead-acid models, while the most lightweight is the lithium-ion ones. Usually, a larger battery means more weight.
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Okay, so I’m Philip Lopez. I join Riverside Trailer as an editor, where I will be doing research for both content and reviews. I contribute to studies aimed at understanding the most typical problems encountered by RVers on the road. I also keep up with the newest RVing gadget innovations so that I can promptly evaluate and recommend the best options.