Everstart 27Dc Deep Cycle Battery

As I sit here in my RV, watching the sunset over the lake while my laptop hums along and the interior lights cast a warm glow, I’m reminded of just how much I rely on my deep cycle battery. After years of frustrating power issues and disappointing battery performance, discovering the Everstart 27DC was genuinely life-changing for my off-grid adventures. Today, I want to share everything I’ve learned about this powerhouse to help you make an informed decision.

Let me tell you, finding the right deep cycle battery can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With countless brands, specifications, and price points, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But the right deep cycle battery can make or break your outdoor adventures, whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time RVer like me.

What Exactly Is the Everstart 27DC Deep Cycle Battery?

Before diving into specifics, let’s clarify what we’re talking about. The Everstart 27DC is a Group 27 deep cycle battery designed specifically for applications requiring consistent power delivery over extended periods. Unlike standard automotive batteries made for short bursts of high power, deep cycle batteries are engineered to provide steady power and withstand repeated discharge and recharge cycles.

Walmart’s Everstart brand has positioned this battery as an affordable yet reliable option for various applications. I remember my skepticism when I first purchased one—how could something this affordable perform well? Three years later, I’m pleased to report my initial doubts were unfounded.

The 27DC designation refers to its group size (physical dimensions) and deep cycle design. This standardization helps ensure compatibility across different applications and replacement scenarios.

What Can You Use the Everstart 27DC For?

The versatility of the Everstart 27DC is truly impressive. Over the years, I’ve used these batteries for multiple applications:

Marine Applications

One summer, I installed an Everstart 27DC on my pontoon boat to power the trolling motor and electronics. Despite spending long days on the water, the battery consistently delivered reliable power. The battery’s resistance to vibration and ability to handle deep discharges made it ideal for marine environments.

The 27DC performs admirably in marine settings because it’s designed to withstand the constant motion and occasionally harsh conditions found on water. While it’s not marketed specifically as a marine battery, its construction makes it suitable for boats when properly maintained and secured.

RV Power Systems

This is where my Everstart 27DC truly shines. As someone who frequently boondocks (camps without hookups), reliable battery power is essential. The 27DC powers my lights, water pump, and various electronics when I’m off the grid.

For weekend RV trips, a single 27DC might suffice. However, for extended boondocking, I’ve connected two in parallel to double my capacity. The batteries maintain our essential systems without issue, though I’m careful about power management.

Solar Power Systems

When I installed my first small solar setup, the Everstart 27DC integrated seamlessly. Its deep cycle design means it can handle the daily charge-discharge cycle that comes with solar power systems.

For my modest 200-watt solar array, the battery provides adequate storage capacity. Larger systems might require multiple batteries or higher-capacity alternatives, but for entry-level solar setups, the 27DC offers good value.

Trolling Motors

Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the 27DC’s performance with trolling motors. During a fishing trip with my brother-in-law, we used his boat equipped with an Everstart 27DC. Even after a full day on the water with moderate trolling motor use, we still had power to spare.

The steady discharge characteristics of this battery make it well-suited for trolling motors, providing consistent performance rather than the rapid power decline you might experience with inappropriate battery types.

Technical Specifications: Understanding What You’re Getting

Let’s break down the key specs of the Everstart 27DC:

Amp-Hour Rating

The Everstart 27DC typically offers around 80-85 amp-hours of capacity, though this can vary slightly between production batches. This rating indicates how much energy the battery can store and deliver over time.

To put this in perspective, an 80Ah battery could theoretically provide 1 amp for 80 hours, 2 amps for 40 hours, and so on. However, real-world performance varies based on discharge rate, temperature, and other factors.

Physical Dimensions and Weight

The Group 27 designation means the battery measures approximately 12.75 inches long, 6.75 inches wide, and 9.5 inches tall. These standardized dimensions ensure it fits in battery compartments designed for Group 27 batteries.

Weight-wise, expect around 50-60 pounds. I still remember the first time I installed one in my RV—the substantial weight surprised me, but it also reassured me of its robust construction. When handling, always lift with your legs, not your back!

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)

While CCA ratings are more relevant for starting batteries, the Everstart 27DC typically offers approximately 700 CCA. This means it can deliver a decent amount of power even in colder conditions, which is reassuring when camping in various climates.

Last winter, during an unexpected cold snap in northern Arizona, my 27DC continued functioning when temperatures dipped below freezing. While I noticed some capacity reduction, it still powered essential systems reliably.

Terminal Type

The battery comes with standard automotive post terminals, making connections straightforward with common battery cables and connectors. Some models also include threaded side terminals for additional connection options.

Longevity: How Long Will Your Everstart 27DC Last?

Battery lifespan is a top concern for most buyers, and rightfully so. Based on my experience and research, you can expect:

Cycle Life

Under ideal conditions with proper maintenance, the Everstart 27DC should deliver approximately 300-400 deep discharge cycles. This means if you regularly discharge the battery to 50% (recommended for maximizing lifespan) and recharge it, you can expect several years of service depending on use frequency.

My first 27DC provided reliable service for nearly three years of weekend RV use before showing significant capacity reduction. This aligns with what many users report.

Calendar Life

Even with minimal use, all lead-acid batteries have a finite shelf life. Generally, you can expect 3-5 years of useful service before chemical breakdown naturally reduces capacity, regardless of usage patterns.

Factors Affecting Lifespan

Several factors significantly impact how long your battery will last:

1. Depth of discharge: Consistently discharging below 50% will shorten lifespan dramatically. I monitor battery levels with a simple voltage meter to avoid excessive discharge.
2. Charging practices: Using an appropriate charger with proper voltage settings extends battery life considerably. After frying an earlier battery with an improper charger, I invested in a quality multi-stage charger specifically designed for deep cycle batteries.
3. Temperature: Extreme heat accelerates internal corrosion and water loss. During summer camping in southern Utah, I noticed faster self-discharge rates when temperatures soared above 100°F.
4. Maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance can add months or even years to your battery’s service life.

Performance Comparison: How Does It Stack Up?

The deep cycle battery market offers numerous alternatives at various price points. Here’s how the Everstart 27DC compares:

Vs. Premium Brands (Trojan, Interstate, etc.)

Premium batteries typically offer longer cycle life—sometimes 600+ cycles compared to the Everstart’s 300-400. However, they often cost twice as much or more.

For occasional users, the value proposition of the Everstart is compelling. I’ve found that for weekend warriors and seasonal campers, the performance-to-price ratio strongly favors the Everstart.

Vs. Other Budget Options

Compared to other budget-friendly options, the Everstart generally offers comparable or superior performance. When my camping neighbor installed a similarly-priced competitor’s battery, we both monitored performance over a season. The Everstart consistently maintained voltage better under load.

Vs. AGM and Lithium Alternatives

AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries offer spill-proof design and better resistance to vibration but at a higher price point. Lithium batteries provide significant weight savings and much longer cycle life but can cost 4-5 times more.

For my applications, the traditional flooded lead-acid design of the Everstart 27DC represents the sweet spot of affordability and adequate performance. However, as lithium prices continue to fall, that equation may change in the coming years.

Charging Your Everstart 27DC: Best Practices

Proper charging is crucial for maximizing battery life and performance. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Charging Equipment

For best results, use a multi-stage charger designed for deep cycle batteries. These typically offer bulk, absorption, and float charging modes that optimize the charging process and prevent damage.

After experimenting with several chargers, I settled on a 10-amp model with temperature compensation. This feature adjusts charging parameters based on ambient temperature, preventing overcharging in hot conditions.

Charging Parameters

The ideal charging voltage for the Everstart 27DC varies by stage:

• Bulk charge: 14.4-14.8 volts
• Absorption stage: 14.2-14.4 volts
• Float/maintenance: 13.2-13.5 volts

Exceeding these voltages can damage the battery through excessive gassing and plate degradation. My first deep cycle battery died prematurely because I used an automotive charger with too-high voltage settings.

Charging Time

A completely discharged 27DC will typically require 8-12 hours for a full recharge using a standard 10-amp charger. Higher amperage chargers can reduce this time, but excessive charging rates can generate heat and potentially damage the battery.

I typically start my generator and begin charging when my battery reaches approximately 50% capacity (around 12.2 volts under no load). This approach balances battery longevity with practical power needs.

Alternative Charging Methods

Beyond standard AC chargers, other options include:

1. Solar charging: My 200-watt solar array typically delivers 10-15 amps in full sun, making it perfect for maintaining the 27DC. I use a solar charge controller to regulate voltage and prevent overcharging.
2. Engine alternator: While traveling, my RV’s alternator charges the house batteries. However, this rarely achieves a complete charge without extended driving time.
3. Generator charging: For faster charging when boondocking, I use a small generator with a built-in battery charger. This combination quickly restores battery capacity when solar input is insufficient.

Proper Maintenance: Extending Your Battery’s Life

Maintaining your Everstart 27DC isn’t complicated, but consistent attention significantly extends its useful life:

Regular Inspection

Monthly checks should include:

1. Terminal cleanliness: Corrosion at the terminals increases resistance and reduces efficiency. I use a mixture of baking soda and water to neutralize acid and clean connections when needed.
2. Electrolyte levels: As a flooded lead-acid battery, the 27DC requires periodic checking of fluid levels. In hot weather, I check monthly and top off with distilled water when necessary. Never use tap water, as minerals can damage the plates.
3. Case condition: Check for cracks, bulging, or deformation that might indicate internal problems.

Equalization Charging

Every 3-6 months, performing an equalization charge helps restore battery capacity by breaking down sulfation—a common cause of capacity loss. This controlled overcharge requires a charger with an equalization setting and should be done in a well-ventilated area due to increased hydrogen gas production.

The first time I performed this process, I was amazed at the improvement in battery performance. A battery I thought was failing showed significantly improved capacity afterward.

Winter Storage

If storing your RV or boat for winter, either:

1. Remove the battery and store it in a cool (not freezing) location, maintaining a charge level above 80% with occasional maintenance charging.
2. Keep it installed but disconnected from loads, with a trickle charger or solar maintainer to prevent self-discharge.

During my first winter of RV ownership, I neglected proper storage procedures and returned to a deeply discharged battery that never fully recovered. Lesson learned!

Installation Tips: Getting It Right the First Time

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and safety:

Secure Mounting

The substantial weight of the 27DC requires secure mounting to prevent movement. In marine applications, use proper battery boxes and securing mechanisms to accommodate water movement.

After experiencing a battery sliding during travel, I added additional straps to my RV’s battery compartment for extra security.

Ventilation

All lead-acid batteries produce hydrogen gas during charging, which is explosive in sufficient concentration. Always ensure adequate ventilation in battery compartments.

My RV’s battery bay has dedicated vents, but when I installed a secondary battery in a storage compartment, I added ventilation ports to ensure safety.

Proper Cabling

Use appropriately sized cables based on your expected load and distance. For most RV installations, 4-6 AWG cable provides adequate current-carrying capacity with minimal voltage drop.

Investing in quality cable and connections pays dividends in system efficiency. I learned this after replacing the thin factory cables with heavier gauge wire and experiencing noticeably improved performance.

Warranty and Support: What to Expect

The Everstart 27DC typically comes with a 12-month free replacement warranty, which is standard for batteries in this price range. Premium brands might offer longer coverage, but at significantly higher initial cost.

When I encountered a manufacturing defect with my first 27DC (it wouldn’t hold a charge after just two months), the Walmart return process was straightforward. I simply brought the battery back with my receipt and received a replacement without hassle.

Remember that warranties typically cover manufacturing defects, not failures due to improper use, maintenance neglect, or normal wear. Keep your receipt and document your purchase date for warranty purposes.

Where to Purchase and What to Expect

As Walmart’s house brand, Everstart batteries are primarily available at Walmart stores nationwide. Prices typically range from $90-$120, depending on location and any current promotions.

I’ve found that auto department staff knowledge varies widely between stores. At some locations, staff members were extremely knowledgeable about battery applications and specifications. At others, I needed to rely on my own research.

Before purchasing, check the manufacturing date stamped on the battery case. Freshness matters with lead-acid batteries—try to select one manufactured within the past six months for maximum lifespan. During my last purchase, I noticed manufacturing dates ranging from 2 to 10 months prior, so it’s worth checking multiple batteries.

Environmental Considerations and Disposal

Lead-acid batteries are nearly 100% recyclable, but improper disposal poses serious environmental hazards. When your 27DC reaches the end of its useful life:

1. Never dispose of it in regular trash
2. Return it to any auto parts store or battery retailer (they’re required to accept used batteries)
3. Many retailers offer core credits when purchasing a replacement

When I replaced my aging 27DC last year, I received a $10 core credit toward my new battery purchase. The recycling process recovers lead, plastic, and acid for reuse in new batteries and other products.

Real-World Applications: My Experiences

Let me share a few specific scenarios where my Everstart 27DC proved its worth:

Desert Boondocking

During a two-week stay in the Arizona desert, my single 27DC powered essential systems (lights, water pump, furnace fan) with careful conservation. Each morning, my small solar array would replace the previous day’s usage.

The battery maintained consistent performance despite daytime temperatures approaching 100°F. I monitored water levels carefully and kept the battery compartment vented to prevent overheating.

Fishing Weekends

For a series of weekend fishing trips, my brother and I used an Everstart 27DC to power a 45-pound thrust trolling motor. On a typical 8-hour fishing day with intermittent motor use, we used approximately 60% of the battery’s capacity.

The consistent power delivery meant our trolling motor maintained reliable thrust throughout the day, unlike a previous battery that would noticeably weaken as discharge progressed.

Winter Camping

During a late-season camping trip when temperatures dropped to 25°F at night, I noticed approximately 20% reduced capacity—a normal characteristic of lead-acid chemistry. Despite this reduction, careful power management allowed comfortable camping for a three-day weekend without recharging.

The furnace fan drew significant power during cold nights, but the 27DC handled the load without excessive voltage drop.

Is the Everstart 27DC Right for You?

After years of experience with this battery, here’s my guidance on whether it’s the right choice for your needs:

Perfect For:

• Weekend RVers and occasional boaters seeking reliable power without premium prices
• Entry-level solar power systems
• Backup power for moderate loads
• Trolling motors and small boat electronics
• Budget-conscious consumers who practice good maintenance

Consider Alternatives If:

• You need maximum cycle life regardless of cost
• Your application involves extreme conditions or very deep cycling
• Weight is a primary concern (consider lithium)
• You prefer maintenance-free operation (consider AGM)
• Your power requirements are very high or continuous

Final Thoughts: Value Proposition of the Everstart 27DC

After several years and multiple Everstart 27DC batteries across various applications, I’ve developed a nuanced appreciation for what this battery offers. It represents a sweet spot of affordability, adequate performance, and wide availability that makes it accessible to nearly anyone with deep cycle power needs.

The Everstart 27DC doesn’t compete with premium batteries in longevity or extreme performance, but it offers remarkable value for typical recreational applications when properly maintained. For weekend warriors and seasonal outdoor enthusiasts, the cost-to-performance ratio is difficult to beat.

My approach has evolved to replacing these batteries every 3-4 years as part of regular maintenance rather than investing in significantly more expensive options. This strategy has proven cost-effective while providing reliable power for my needs.

Whether you’re outfitting your first RV, powering a trolling motor, or building a modest solar system, the Everstart 27DC deserves serious consideration. With proper care and realistic expectations, it will serve you well across countless adventures.

Remember that the best battery is one that meets your specific needs within your budget constraints. For many outdoor enthusiasts, the Everstart 27DC strikes that balance beautifully. Happy adventuring, and may your batteries always keep the lights on when you need them most!