Everstart Deep Cycle Battery

Last weekend, I found myself stranded on a remote lake when my boat’s battery died mid-fishing trip. As I drifted aimlessly while waiting for help, I had plenty of time to contemplate how I’d ended up in this situation and what I could have done differently. The answer was painfully obvious: I needed a proper deep cycle battery, not the cheap generic one I’d picked up on sale. After getting back to shore (and enduring plenty of good-natured ribbing from my fishing buddies), I embarked on a mission to find the perfect power solution for my adventures. That’s when I discovered the Everstart Deep Cycle Battery line—and it’s completely transformed my outdoor power game.

After extensive research and hands-on testing, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about these versatile power workhorses. Whether you’re a weekend warrior like me or someone with serious power needs, this comprehensive guide will help you make the right choice for your specific situation.

What Exactly Is an Everstart Deep Cycle Battery?

First things first: let’s understand what makes a deep cycle battery different from other batteries you might have lying around in your garage. Unlike standard car batteries designed for short, powerful bursts of energy to start engines, deep cycle batteries are built to provide steady, reliable power over extended periods. They’re the marathon runners of the battery world, not the sprinters.

The Everstart Deep Cycle Battery is Walmart’s house brand of deep cycle batteries, manufactured to provide consistent power delivery for applications that require sustained energy. The key feature that sets deep cycle batteries apart is their ability to be deeply discharged and recharged hundreds of times without significant damage — something that would quickly ruin a standard starting battery.

When I first started researching, I was honestly skeptical about a “big box store” battery brand. Could an Everstart really compare to the premium brands that cost twice as much? After six months of regular use powering everything from my fishing boat to a small cabin’s emergency backup system, I can confidently say these batteries deliver impressive performance for their price point.

Common Applications: Where Do These Batteries Shine?

Since purchasing my first Everstart Deep Cycle Battery, I’ve discovered just how versatile these power sources can be. Here’s where I’ve personally used them and where I’ve seen others putting them to work:

Marine Applications

My 16-foot fishing boat runs perfectly on an Everstart Marine Deep Cycle battery. It powers the trolling motor, fish finder, and other electronics without breaking a sweat during day-long fishing trips. The consistent power delivery means I’m not constantly worried about running out of juice when I’m a mile from the dock.

RVs and Campers

Last summer, I upgraded the aging battery in my small travel trailer to an Everstart Deep Cycle. The difference was immediately noticeable — I could run interior lights, charge devices, and even power a small TV for much longer without needing to hook up to shore power. For anyone living the #vanlife or enjoying weekend camping trips, these batteries provide the independence you need from the grid.

Solar Power Systems

A friend of mine has a modest off-grid solar setup at his hunting cabin, and he swears by his bank of four Everstart Deep Cycle batteries. They store the energy harvested by his solar panels during the day and provide reliable power throughout the night. For basic solar applications, these batteries offer an excellent balance of performance and value.

Golf Carts and Electric Vehicles

While not my personal use case, I’ve spoken with several golf course managers who use Everstart Deep Cycle batteries in their cart fleets. The batteries handle the constant discharge/recharge cycles remarkably well for their price point.

Backup Power Systems

After a severe storm knocked out power to my neighborhood for three days last winter, I set up a simple backup power system using an Everstart Deep Cycle battery and an inverter. It kept essential devices charged and powered a few critical lights until utility service was restored.

Lifespan: How Long Will Your Investment Last?

One of the first questions I had when considering an Everstart Deep Cycle Battery was how long it would last. Battery replacement isn’t cheap, so understanding the expected lifespan is crucial for evaluating the true cost of ownership.

Based on my research and personal experience, you can expect an Everstart Deep Cycle Battery to last between 3-5 years with proper maintenance and usage. However, several factors will influence this timeline:

1. Depth of discharge: Regularly draining the battery below 50% capacity will shorten its lifespan significantly. I try to keep my discharges around 30-40% whenever possible.
2. Charging practices: Using a quality charger designed for deep cycle batteries has made a noticeable difference in my battery’s performance. The cheap trickle charger I initially used wasn’t doing me any favors.
3. Temperature exposure: Extreme temperatures are battery killers. I learned this the hard way after leaving my first Everstart in an uninsulated shed during a particularly harsh winter. Now I store my batteries in climate-controlled spaces when not in use.
4. Maintenance routine: Regular maintenance (which I’ll cover in detail later) can add years to your battery’s life. The small amount of time invested pays significant dividends.
5. Usage frequency: Batteries that sit unused for long periods tend to deteriorate faster than those regularly cycled. If you’re only using your battery seasonally, a proper storage routine is essential.

A fishing buddy of mine has been using the same Everstart Deep Cycle Battery in his bass boat for nearly six years, which is impressive longevity. His secret? Religious maintenance and careful charging practices. I’m hoping to match his success with my newer purchase.

Technical Specifications: Understanding What You’re Buying

When I first started looking at battery specifications, the technical jargon was overwhelming. After much research and many conversations with more knowledgeable friends, I’ve distilled the key specifications you should understand when evaluating an Everstart Deep Cycle Battery:

Amp-Hour (AH) Rating

This might be the most important specification to consider. The amp-hour rating indicates how much energy the battery can store and deliver over time. Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries typically range from 27AH to 115AH, depending on the model.

For my fishing boat, I chose a 90AH model, which provides plenty of power for a full day on the water. For context, a 90AH battery can theoretically deliver 9 amps for 10 hours or 4.5 amps for 20 hours (though real-world performance varies).

Reserve Capacity (RC)

This specification tells you how many minutes the battery can deliver a sustained 25 amps of current before dropping below 10.5 volts. Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries typically have reserve capacities ranging from 140 to 220 minutes.

I’ve found this spec particularly helpful when planning longer trips. Knowing my battery has a reserve capacity of 175 minutes gives me confidence that I won’t be left without power even if I miscalculate my usage somewhat.

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)

While less important for pure deep cycle applications, many Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries are actually “dual purpose” and provide some starting capability. CCA ratings typically range from 550 to 840, depending on the model.

This dual-purpose functionality came in handy when the starting battery in my truck unexpectedly failed during a camping trip. I was able to temporarily swap in my deep cycle battery to get home, though I wouldn’t recommend this as a regular practice.

Group Size

Battery group sizes are standardized dimensions that help ensure a battery will fit in your intended mounting location. Common Everstart Deep Cycle Battery group sizes include 24, 27, 29, and 31.

I learned the importance of this specification the hard way when I purchased a Group 29 battery only to discover my boat’s battery compartment was designed for a Group 24. Measure twice, buy once!

Voltage

Most Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries are 12-volt, which is standard for most applications. However, 6-volt models are available for specialized uses or for wiring in series to create 12V, 24V, or 48V battery banks.

For my solar backup system, I use two 6V batteries connected in series to create a 12V power source with better cycle life than a single 12V battery.

The Charging Process: Doing It Right

Improper charging is the fastest way to kill a deep cycle battery. When I first got my Everstart, I made several charging mistakes that likely reduced its potential lifespan. Learn from my errors with these charging best practices:

Choose the Right Charger

Not all battery chargers are created equal. A standard automotive charger can actually damage a deep cycle battery over time. I invested in a multi-stage charger specifically designed for deep cycle batteries, and it’s been worth every penny.

A quality deep cycle battery charger will have multiple charging phases:

• Bulk charging (constant current phase)
• Absorption charging (constant voltage phase)
• Float/maintenance charging (low-level maintenance)

My NOCO Genius10 has these features and also includes a desulfation mode that has helped revive an older battery I had given up for dead.

Charging Time Expectations

One question I frequently had when I first started using deep cycle batteries was how long I should expect the charging process to take. The answer depends on several factors:

• Battery capacity (AH rating)
• Depth of discharge
• Charger output (in amps)
• Battery condition and age

As a rough guideline, you can use this formula: Charging time (hours) = Battery capacity (AH) × Depth of discharge (%) ÷ Charger output (A) × 1.2 (efficiency factor)

For example, charging my 90AH battery from 50% discharge using a 10-amp charger takes approximately: 90AH × 0.5 ÷ 10A × 1.2 = 5.4 hours.

In practice, I’ve found this estimate to be fairly accurate, though the absorption phase can sometimes extend the total charging time beyond this calculation.

Solar Charging Considerations

For my cabin’s solar system, I’ve learned that charging deep cycle batteries with solar panels requires some additional considerations:

• A quality solar charge controller is essential to prevent overcharging
• Panel wattage should be matched to battery capacity
• The angle and orientation of panels significantly impact charging efficiency
• Seasonal adjustments may be necessary for optimal performance

With a properly sized solar setup, my Everstart batteries reach full charge by mid-afternoon on sunny days, providing plenty of stored energy for overnight use.

Solar Compatibility: Going Off-Grid with Everstart

Speaking of solar, one of the most common questions I get from friends interested in small off-grid systems is whether Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries work well in solar applications. Based on my experience with a modest 400W system, the answer is a qualified yes.

Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries can certainly function in solar energy storage applications, but they aren’t necessarily the optimal choice for larger or primary solar installations. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Advantages for Solar Use

• Cost-effective entry point for beginners
• Readily available at most Walmart locations
• Decent cycle life when properly maintained
• Compatible with standard solar charge controllers

Limitations for Solar Applications

• Not designed for extremely deep cycling (daily 80%+ discharges)
• Shorter lifespan than specialized solar batteries
• Less efficient energy storage than lithium alternatives
• Require more maintenance than premium solar batteries

For my weekend cabin that sees occasional use, the Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries provide adequate performance. However, if I were building a full-time off-grid system, I’d likely invest in purpose-built solar batteries like those from Trojan or Battle Born.

Deep Cycle vs. Starting Batteries: Understanding the Difference

Before diving into the world of deep cycle batteries, I made the common mistake of thinking “a battery is a battery.” This misconception led to my fishing trip fiasco I mentioned earlier. Let me clarify the fundamental differences between deep cycle and standard starting batteries:

Design Philosophy

• Starting batteries (like those in most cars) are designed to deliver a large burst of current for a very short time to start an engine. They have many thin plates to maximize surface area for that initial current surge.
• Deep cycle batteries like the Everstart are built with thicker plates that provide less immediate power but can withstand repeated discharge/recharge cycles without damage.

Discharge Characteristics

• Starting batteries should never be discharged below about 80% of their capacity. Doing so can permanently damage them.
• Deep cycle batteries are designed to be regularly discharged to 50% capacity (or even more in some cases) without significant damage.

Internal Construction

When a friend helped me refurbish an old battery, I got to see the internal differences firsthand. The thicker plates in deep cycle batteries use more lead per plate but have fewer plates overall compared to starting batteries.

Optimal Applications

• Use starting batteries for: Vehicle starting, systems requiring brief high-current loads
• Use deep cycle batteries for: Trolling motors, RVs, solar energy storage, golf carts, electric vehicles, backup power systems

Understanding these differences helped me select the right battery for each application in my life. My truck has a high-quality starting battery, while my boat, cabin, and backup systems use appropriately sized deep cycle batteries.

Price Considerations: What to Expect at the Register

When I first started shopping for an Everstart Deep Cycle Battery, the price range confused me. Why did some models cost twice as much as others? After extensive research and several purchases, I’ve developed a good understanding of the Everstart pricing structure.

Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries typically range from $80 to $200, depending on:

Capacity (AH Rating)

Higher capacity batteries naturally cost more. My 90AH model was about $40 more expensive than the 60AH version.

Group Size

Larger physical batteries generally command higher prices, though this correlates closely with capacity.

Warranty Length

Models with longer warranties cost more upfront but may offer better value over time. I opted for the 2-year free replacement warranty model rather than the 1-year version, and it was worth the extra $15.

Technology

Some Everstart models incorporate enhanced technologies like “maintenance-free” designs or improved plate materials. These features add to the price but also potentially to the lifespan and performance.

Value Comparison

Compared to premium brands like Trojan, Optima, or Interstate, the Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries typically cost 30-50% less. For casual weekend use, I’ve found the performance difference doesn’t justify the higher price of premium brands. However, for critical applications or daily heavy use, the premium options may offer better long-term value despite their higher initial cost.

Where to Buy: Finding the Best Deal

As Walmart’s house brand, Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries are most readily available at Walmart stores and Walmart.com. However, I’ve discovered a few strategies for finding the best deals:

In-Store Availability

Nearly every Walmart Supercenter carries a selection of Everstart batteries, though smaller stores may have limited options. The automotive department typically stocks them, and most locations offer free battery testing and installation services.

Seasonal Pricing

I’ve noticed that prices often drop in the spring as boating season approaches and again in the fall as retailers clear inventory. My best deal came from an end-of-season clearance in October when I snagged a Group 29 battery for nearly 30% off the regular price.

Core Charges

Be aware that most battery purchases include a “core charge” (typically $5-$15) that is refunded when you return your old battery. Don’t forget to bring your old battery to avoid paying this extra fee.

Warranty Considerations

The location of purchase matters for warranty claims. I found it easiest to buy from my local Walmart since any warranty issues can be handled at the same store without shipping hassles.

Online Options

While Walmart.com sells Everstart batteries, shipping costs can be prohibitive due to weight. I’ve found in-store pickup to be the best option when ordering online.

Maintenance: Keeping Your Investment Healthy

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that proper maintenance dramatically extends battery life. Here’s my routine for keeping my Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries in peak condition:

Regular Inspection

Once a month, I visually inspect my batteries for:

• Corrosion on terminals
• Bulging or cracking of the case
• Loose connections
• Proper electrolyte levels (for non-sealed models)

This five-minute check has helped me catch potential issues before they become serious problems.

Terminal Cleaning

Battery terminals are prone to corrosion, which can restrict power flow and cause starting or charging issues. Every three months, I:

1. Disconnect the cables (always negative first)
2. Make a paste of baking soda and water
3. Scrub the terminals and cable ends with an old toothbrush
4. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly
5. Apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly or commercial terminal protectant
6. Reconnect the cables (always positive first)

This simple maintenance routine has eliminated the connection problems I used to experience.

Water Levels (Flooded Models Only)

Some Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries are “flooded” (non-sealed) designs that require periodic water addition. For these models, I check water levels monthly and add distilled water as needed to keep the plates covered. Never use tap water, as minerals can damage the battery.

Charge Maintenance

Batteries discharge slowly even when not in use. For batteries in storage, I connect a maintenance charger or perform a refresh charge every 1-2 months. This prevents the harmful sulfation that occurs when batteries sit in a discharged state.

Temperature Considerations

After losing a battery to freezing temperatures, I’m careful about where I store them. A fully charged battery can withstand sub-zero temperatures, but a discharged battery can freeze and be permanently damaged at much higher temperatures. My batteries now live in insulated containers during winter storage.

Powering Your Devices: What Can an Everstart Handle?

Understanding what you can realistically power with an Everstart Deep Cycle Battery took me some trial and error. Here’s what I’ve successfully powered with my 90AH battery:

Marine Applications

• Trolling motor: 4-5 hours of continuous use
• Fish finder/GPS: 10+ hours
• LED lighting: 20+ hours
• Small marine refrigerator: 8-10 hours

Camping/RV Use

• LED lighting systems: 30+ hours
• 12V refrigerator: 15-20 hours
• Cell phone/tablet charging: Practically unlimited
• Small TV/DVD player with inverter: 5-6 hours
• Portable fan: 20+ hours
• CPAP machine (with inverter): 8-10 hours

Emergency Home Backup

• Critical lighting: 30+ hours
• Smartphone charging: 50+ full charges
• Small medical devices: Varies by power requirements
• Internet router/modem: 10-12 hours
• Small TV: 4-5 hours

When planning your power needs, I recommend this formula:

1. Determine the wattage of each device you want to power
2. Convert to amps (Amps = Watts ÷ Volts)
3. Multiply by the hours of use
4. Add 20% for inverter inefficiency (if using an inverter)
5. Make sure the total doesn’t exceed 50% of your battery’s amp-hour rating

This approach has helped me avoid unpleasant surprises when relying on battery power.

Marine Use: On the Water with Everstart

As an avid fisherman, the marine performance of Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries is particularly important to me. After two seasons of use in my bass boat, here’s my assessment:

Marine-Specific Features

Everstart offers marine-specific deep cycle batteries that include:

• Vibration resistance for rough water conditions
• Enhanced case designs to prevent spillage
• Terminal positions optimized for boat installations
• Higher reserve capacity ratings for longer days on the water

Real-World Performance

On a typical fishing day, I run:

• 55-pound thrust trolling motor (intermittently)
• Fish finder/chartplotter
• Livewell aerator
• Navigation lights when needed
• Occasional device charging

With this usage pattern, my 90AH Everstart Marine Deep Cycle Battery consistently delivers 6-7 hours of power before reaching 50% discharge—plenty for my needs.

Saltwater Considerations

For those in saltwater environments, be aware that corrosion happens much more quickly. My coastal fishing friends recommend more frequent terminal cleaning (monthly instead of quarterly) and the use of marine-specific terminal protectants for batteries used in saltwater environments.

Dual Battery Setups

For longer trips or more power-hungry boats, a dual battery setup with a battery selector switch provides redundancy and extended range. I’m planning this upgrade for next season, using two Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries with a switch that allows me to use them independently or in parallel as needed.

Warranty Protection: What’s Covered?

Understanding the warranty on an Everstart Deep Cycle Battery took some digging through the fine print. Here’s what I discovered:

Standard Coverage

Most Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries come with either a 1-year or 2-year free replacement warranty, depending on the model. The warranty period begins on the date of purchase, so keep your receipt.

Pro-Rated Period

After the free replacement period, many models offer additional pro-rated warranty coverage. During this period, you’ll receive a discount on a replacement battery based on how much time remains in the warranty period.

What’s Covered

The warranty typically covers:

• Manufacturing defects
• Premature failure under normal use
• Issues with holding a charge when properly maintained

What’s Not Covered

The warranty generally excludes:

• Physical damage to the battery
• Improper charging or maintenance
• Using the battery in applications it wasn’t designed for
• Normal wear and tear

Making a Claim

I had to use the warranty once when a battery developed a cell issue after about 13 months. The process was straightforward:

1. I brought the battery and original receipt to Walmart’s automotive department
2. They tested the battery and confirmed the issue
3. Since I was still within the free replacement period, they swapped it for a new one on the spot
4. I paid only the core charge, which was refunded when I left my defective battery

Environmentally Responsible Disposal

When my old generic battery finally died, I wasn’t sure how to dispose of it properly. After researching the environmental impact of improper battery disposal, I became committed to responsible recycling. Here’s what I’ve learned about disposing of old Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries:

Recycling Value

Lead-acid batteries are among the most recycled products in America, with over 99% of battery lead being recyclable. Nearly every component of the battery can be reused:

• Lead plates and terminals are melted and refined
• Plastic cases are processed into new plastic products
• Electrolyte can be neutralized and processed
• Even the sulfates can be converted to usable compounds

Where to Recycle

I found several convenient options for recycling:

• Walmart and most auto parts stores accept old batteries for recycling
• Many municipalities have household hazardous waste collection events
• Some recycling centers specialize in battery disposal
• The store where you purchase your new battery will typically take your old one

Financial Incentives

Most retailers charge a “core fee” when you purchase a new battery. This fee (usually $5-$15) is refunded when you return your old battery, creating a financial incentive for recycling.

Environmental Impact

Improper disposal of lead-acid batteries can cause serious environmental harm. Just one improperly disposed battery can contaminate soil and groundwater for years. The recycling process prevents these toxins from entering our ecosystem.

RV Applications: Power on the Road

Last year, I upgraded my small travel trailer with an Everstart Deep Cycle Battery, and it transformed my camping experience. Here’s what I’ve learned about using these batteries in RV applications:

Power Requirements

The typical RV uses a deep cycle battery for:

• Interior lighting
• Water pump
• Furnace fan
• Entertainment systems
• Small appliances
• Control panels and monitors

For my 21-foot trailer, a single Group 27 Everstart Deep Cycle Battery provides 1-2 days of power for these systems without hookups, assuming conservative use.

Installation Considerations

Most RVs have a dedicated battery compartment, but it’s essential to:

• Ensure proper ventilation (especially for flooded batteries)
• Secure the battery to prevent movement while traveling
• Install in the correct orientation to prevent acid leakage
• Use proper cable sizes for the distance and current requirements

Charging While Traveling

One advantage of RV use is that the battery charges while you drive (if properly connected to your tow vehicle’s charging system). I’ve found that a 2-3 hour drive typically restores 60-80% of the previous night’s power consumption.

Winter Storage

RV batteries are particularly vulnerable during winter storage. I remove mine and keep it on a maintenance charger in my heated garage. If removal isn’t possible, a solar maintainer can help prevent the deep discharge that occurs during long-term storage.

Amp-Hour Ratings: Choosing the Right Capacity

Understanding amp-hour ratings was one of the most confusing aspects of battery shopping for me initially. After much research, here’s my simplified explanation:

What Amp-Hours Actually Mean

The amp-hour (AH) rating tells you how much current a battery can deliver over a specified time period. For example, a 100AH battery can theoretically provide:

• 5 amps for 20 hours
• 20 amps for 5 hours
• 100 amps for 1 hour

However, real-world performance doesn’t scale perfectly linearly. Higher discharge rates actually reduce the effective capacity due to internal resistance and chemical limitations.

Common Everstart Ratings

Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries typically come in these approximate amp-hour ratings:

• Group 24: 70-85AH
• Group 27: 85-100AH
• Group 29: 100-115AH
• Group 31: 105-125AH

Sizing for Your Application

To determine the right size for your needs:

1. List all devices you’ll power and their amp draws
2. Estimate hours of use for each
3. Multiply amps × hours for each device
4. Add all values together
5. Double this number (to avoid discharging below 50%)

This gives you the minimum amp-hour rating you should consider. I always round up to the next available size for a margin of safety.

Real-World Example

For my fishing setup:

• Trolling motor: 30 amps × 3 hours = 90AH
• Fish finder: 0.5 amps × 8 hours = 4AH
• Navigation lights: 1.5 amps × 2 hours = 3AH
• Total: 97AH × 2 (for 50% rule) = 194AH theoretical need

Since I don’t run the trolling motor continuously, I found that a single 100AH battery meets my needs. For all-day heavy use, I’d need to either use a larger battery or a dual-battery setup.

Testing Battery Health: DIY Diagnosis

After experiencing an unexpected battery failure during a camping trip, I became somewhat obsessive about monitoring my batteries’ health. Here are the testing methods I now use regularly:

Voltage Testing

The simplest test is measuring resting voltage with a digital multimeter. For a 12V deep cycle battery:

• 12.7V or higher: 100% charged
• 12.4V: 75% charged
• 12.2V: 50% charged
• 12.0V: 25% charged
• 11.9V or lower: Discharged

I check resting voltage (after the battery has sat unused for at least 4 hours) monthly to track capacity trends over time.

Load Testing

A more accurate assessment comes from load testing, which measures how the battery performs under actual use conditions. Basic load testers are available for $20-$50, and I consider mine an essential tool.

The process is simple:

1. Fully charge the battery
2. Connect the load tester
3. Apply a load equal to half the CCA rating for 15 seconds
4. Note the voltage under load

A healthy battery should maintain above 9.6V during this test. When my batteries start dropping below this threshold, I know replacement time is approaching.

Specific Gravity Testing (Flooded Batteries Only)

For non-sealed batteries, a hydrometer can measure the specific gravity of the electrolyte, providing the most accurate assessment of each cell’s condition. Readings should be between 1.265 and 1.299 when fully charged, with no more than 0.050 difference between cells.

Professional Testing

Most auto parts stores and battery retailers offer free battery testing. I have my batteries professionally tested annually, especially before long trips or at the beginning of boating season.

Inverter Compatibility: Powering AC Devices

One of the most useful accessories I’ve paired with my Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries is a power inverter, which converts the battery’s 12V DC power to 120V AC for standard household devices. Here’s what I’ve learned about using inverters with these batteries:

Inverter Sizing

Inverters are rated by their continuous output wattage. To determine the right size:

1. Identify the device with the highest wattage you’ll power
2. Add 20% for safety margin
3. Choose an inverter that exceeds this number

For my needs, a 1000W inverter has proven adequate for powering laptops, small TVs, phone chargers, and even occasional power tools during outages.

Pure Sine vs. Modified Sine

Inverters come in two main types:

• Modified sine wave: Less expensive but can cause issues with sensitive electronics
• Pure sine wave: More expensive but produces power nearly identical to utility power

After experiencing interference with my laptop charger and CPAP machine using a modified sine wave inverter, I upgraded to a pure sine model and the problems disappeared. The extra cost was worth it for reliable operation of sensitive equipment.

Wiring Considerations

Proper wiring is critical for safe and efficient inverter operation:

1. Use heavy gauge cable (typically 4 AWG or larger for inverters over 500W)
2. Keep cable runs as short as possible
3. Install an appropriate fuse near the battery
4. Ensure solid connections at all points

My first inverter installation used undersized cables, resulting in voltage drop and poor performance. Upgrading to proper 2 AWG cables made a dramatic difference in efficiency.

Power Draw Awareness

Inverters consume some power even when not actively powering devices. I installed a simple switch to disconnect my inverter when not in use, preventing the 0.3-0.5 amp “phantom draw” that was slowly depleting my battery during storage.

Charging Time: Planning for Power Restoration

Understanding how long it takes to recharge an Everstart Deep Cycle Battery has helped me plan my activities more effectively. Here’s what I’ve learned about charging times:

Factors Affecting Charging Time

Several variables influence how quickly your battery will recharge:

• Depth of discharge (how empty the battery is)
• Charger output (measured in amps)
• Battery capacity (larger batteries take longer)
• Battery age and condition
• Temperature (cold batteries charge more slowly)

Typical Charging Times

As a general guideline, I’ve observed these approximate charging times using a quality 10-amp charger:

• From 50% discharge: 4-6 hours
• From 80% discharge: 8-10 hours
• From near-complete discharge: 12-16 hours

The charging process isn’t linear—it slows considerably during the absorption phase as the battery approaches full charge.

Charging Stages

A quality battery charger cycles through several stages:

1. Bulk Stage: High current, rising voltage (fastest charging occurs here)
2. Absorption Stage: Constant voltage, declining current (takes longer but prevents overheating)
3. Float Stage: Low voltage maintenance charge (can remain connected indefinitely)

Understanding these stages helped me realize why my battery would reach 80% charge relatively quickly but take much longer to reach 100%.

Fast Charging Considerations

While it’s tempting to use the highest amperage charger available for faster charging, there are limits to consider:

• Most deep cycle batteries shouldn’t be charged at rates exceeding 1/3 of their amp-hour capacity
• Higher charging rates generate more heat, which can shorten battery life
• The absorption phase takes roughly the same amount of time regardless of charger size

For my 90AH battery, I use a 15-amp charger as a maximum rate, which strikes a good balance between charging speed and battery longevity.

Pros and Cons: Honest Assessment

After extensive use in multiple applications, I’ve compiled this honest assessment of Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries:

Advantages

1. Affordability: Significantly less expensive than premium brands while delivering respectable performance
2. Availability: Easy to find at virtually any Walmart location
3. Decent Cycle Life: When properly maintained, these batteries provide a reasonable number of cycles
4. Warranty: The free replacement warranty period provides good peace of mind
5. Versatility: Works well in a variety of applications from marine to RV to backup power
6. Wide Model Selection: Available in multiple group sizes and capacities to fit most needs

Disadvantages

1. Not True Deep Cycle: Many Everstart “deep cycle” batteries are actually hybrid designs that compromise some deep cycling ability for starting power
2. Inconsistent Quality: I’ve noticed significant variation between batteries of the same model
3. Limited Extreme Temperature Performance: Performance suffers more in very hot or cold conditions compared to premium brands
4. Shorter Lifespan: Typically last 3-5 years versus 5-8 years for premium deep cycle batteries
5. Weight: Heavier than AGM or lithium alternatives of similar capacity
6. Regular Maintenance Required: Especially for flooded models that need water additions and terminal cleaning

Value Proposition

For weekend warriors and occasional users, I believe Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries offer excellent value. The performance-to-price ratio is quite favorable if you’re willing to perform regular maintenance and don’t need the absolute longest lifespan.

For daily users or critical applications, the premium brands might ultimately provide better value despite their higher initial cost, due to longer lifespans and more consistent performance.

Making the Right Choice: Selection Guidance

After helping several friends select batteries for their needs, I’ve developed this straightforward process for choosing the right Everstart Deep Cycle Battery:

Step 1: Determine Your Primary Application

Different uses have different requirements:

• Marine use: Focus on reserve capacity and vibration resistance
• RV: Consider physical size constraints and amp-hour needs
• Solar: Prioritize cycle life and depth of discharge tolerance
• Backup power: Look at amp-hour capacity and shelf life

Step 2: Calculate Your Power Requirements

As covered earlier, list all devices, their amp draws, and expected hours of use to determine your minimum amp-hour requirements.

Step 3: Consider Physical Constraints

Measure your available space and compare it to the dimensions of available group sizes. Remember that larger isn’t always better if it won’t fit in your installation location.

Step 4: Evaluate Battery Types

Everstart offers several battery technologies:

• Flooded (traditional): Lowest cost, requires maintenance, must remain upright
• AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat): Maintenance-free, can be mounted in various positions, more expensive
• Hybrid designs: Balance of starting and deep cycle capabilities

Step 5: Compare Warranties

All else being equal, choose the model with the longer warranty period for better long-term value.

Step 6: Check Date Codes

When purchasing, check the date code stamped on the battery. Batteries begin aging from the date of manufacture, so select the newest one available.

Step 7: Consider Your Maintenance Willingness

Be honest about how diligent you’ll be with maintenance. If you know you won’t check water levels regularly, spend the extra money on a maintenance-free AGM model.

Conclusion: My Everstart Journey

When I first dipped my toe into the world of deep cycle batteries, I was overwhelmed by options, specifications, and technical jargon. Through research, experience, and yes, some costly mistakes, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for these power workhorses and the freedom they provide.

My Everstart Deep Cycle Batteries have powered fishing trips, camping adventures, emergency backup systems during power outages, and even a small workshop when electricity wasn’t available. While they’re not perfect, they’ve proven to be reliable, cost-effective power solutions for my varied needs.

The most important thing I’ve learned is that battery selection is less about finding the “best” battery and more about finding the right match for your specific application, budget, and maintenance willingness. With proper selection, installation, and maintenance, an Everstart Deep Cycle Battery can provide years of reliable service at a price point that won’t break the bank.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior like me or someone with more serious power needs, I hope my experiences help you navigate your own battery journey more successfully than I did initially. The right battery is out there—it’s just a matter of understanding your needs and making an informed choice.