My battery decisions.. please advise

[john61ct]

Originally Posted by travellerw

Your 7-8 years statement shows your lack of experience actually living aboard, off grid. I know of no full time cruiser anywhere that has gotten 7-8 years of life out of a lead acid battery bank. AGM, yes, FLA, no way.

Just realized I was not clear.

FLA last longer than AGM, care being equal

In fact **AGM** are much fussier in their care requirements, so are more likely to get murdered quickly.

[S/V Alchemy]

Originally Posted by GrowleyMonster

I love the form factor of L-16 batteries. You get a lot more AH without resorting to parallel connections, too. I just wish they were comparably priced per amp/hour with GC-2. More limited market, I guess. But they are a good size to consider if you don't mind paying a little more.

I went with six L-16s. Granted, they form part of the internal ballast. Flawless performance into year two. The height is a challenge for some, but mine are under the stairs and just aft of the mast.