Best Group 31 Battery

Batteries have become an inseparable part of our daily life. Whether a power cut-off due to disasters or as a power option for your RV, we need batteries in every possible way. At a freezing temperature, you need an engine cranker battery. Fitting the bill, here comes the Group 31 batteries. The best Group 31 battery has some incredible features, making it better than other options.

These batteries are multipurpose. Therefore, they can be used as a secondary power option for your home, a power supplier for your boat or RV, an engine starter, and endless possibilities. In this article, we’re putting up the best group 31 battery features.

Best Group 31 Battery – Our Picks

Let’s check out the reviews of the six best Group 31 AGM deep cycle batteries with their quick summary, pros and cons, and why they are our top pick.

1. NorthStar Ultra High-Performance AGM Battery

The NorthStar NSB-AGM31 is an excellent battery with a sturdy construction and heat resistance capability. This standard battery has been approved as a non-hazardous item. This battery from Northstar is compatible with all types of heavy vehicles- RV, SUV, fifth wheel, truck, tractor, car, and boat.

It is a dual-purpose battery, capable of both starting and deep cycle batteries. So you can use it as a starter and as solar storage. This battery is engineered to tolerate 900 cycles down to 50% discharge. It has a CCA (cold cranking amps) of 1150A at 0°F or -18°C; hence it’s suitable for the worst kind of weather. However, this quality product requires a special charger to recharge.

Quick Summary

• Brand: Northstar

• Size: Group 31

• Voltage: 12 Volts

• Battery Cell Composition: Lead-Acid, AGM

• Item Weight: 75 Pounds

• Item Dimensions Lx Wx H: 12.91 x 6.77 x 9.25 inches

• Vehicle Service Type: Fifth Wheel, RV, Car, SUV, Truck, Tractor, Boat

Why did we pick the NorthStar NSB-AGM31?

We chose the NorthStar NSB-AGM31 in our best group 31 starting battery category because it has a high CCA rating that enables it to start the engine even in the coldest weather. Also, due to its advanced AGM construction, the battery requires less maintenance, no water level checking, or no terminal cleaning. The exceptional quick starting capability and incredible reserve capacity puts it into our best Group 31 RV battery list. Finally, it has an incredible warranty period offered by the manufacturer, which you would not deny to take advantage of.

2. VMAXTANKS SLR125

This deep cycle Group 31 AGM battery from VMaxTanks has a 125 Ah power supply potential and weighs 75 pounds, which is quite bulky. The military-grade plates are custom-made with heavy-duty alloy, ensuring quality and reliability. Along with other operating options, you can use it as a power backup for your home.

This battery is designed to endure the most extreme weather conditions. At room temperature, the battery has a low self-discharge rate of 1 to 2 percent per month when it’s not in use. And you don’t need occasional watering to keep it working. It is sealed properly to avoid any leakage in any position.

Quick Summary

• Brand: VmaxTanks

• Voltage: 12 Volts

• Battery Cell Composition: Lead-Acid, AGM

• Item Weight: 75 Pounds

• Service Type: Power inverters, smart chargers, solar applications, and wind turbines.

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Why did we pick the VMAXTANKS SLR125?

We chose the Vmax SLR125 because of its versatility to recombine it. Additionally, this battery does not produce any dangerous gas or fume which ensures the reliability of it. This deep cycle battery is very compatible with various power supply options, like- PV panels, wind power, vehicles, boats etc. Another reason to pick it is it has a mechanism to quickly recharge a low battery and slows down when a minimum maintenance level is reached. And last but not the least, you can run multiple power tools with it at once.

3. Banshee Group 31 Sealed AGM Deep Cycle Dual Purpose Battery

The Banshee Group 31 Sealed AGM Deep Cycle battery can go up to 400  charge and discharge cycles. The DOD or depth of discharge is more than most of the list items, up to 80% which is incredible. There is a flip-up handle for easy transport. This battery has more plates than conventional batteries of the same size.

However, this battery is sealed, and it’s an enhanced flooded battery or EFB which is a modified version of the standard wet-flooded technology. The benefit of an EFB battery is it provides a greater charge acceptance, larger cycles, and many more. This is an upgraded version of the AGM or absorbed glass material technology.

Quick Summary

• Brand: Banshee

• Voltage: 12 Volts

• Battery Cell Composition: Lead-Acid, EFB

• Item Weight: 52.6 Pounds

• Amp Hours: 105Ah

• Cold Cranking Amps: 800 CCA

• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 13.00 x 6.70 x 9.04 Inch

Why did we pick the Banshee Group 31  Sealed AGM Deep Cycle Battery?

We picked the Banshee Group 31 Sealed AGM Deep Cycle battery because it has more power than a similar battery featuring thin plates and 15% increased battery plate surface area. The DOD is larger than most conventional batteries up to 80%, which is another good point. This battery is long lasting and made of quality materials. Also, the built-in hydrometer gives you readings of the current battery life. This marine battery is resilient, sturdy, and powerful. Moreover, it is similarly compatible to crank an engine in a cold temp like a regular battery. Therefore, it has made its way to our top group 31 battery list.

4. ODYSSEY 31-PC2150S Heavy Duty Commercial Battery

This battery from Odyssey has a high cold cranking amp of 1150 CCA. It has an 80% depth of discharge. The battery recharges 100% within 4 to 6 hours. This battery, without any metal jacket, can tolerate from -40°C to 45°C. And with a metal jacket, it can go even further, from -40°C to 80°C. Also, it can be stored without recharging for up to 2 years.

The dry cell mechanism requires no watering. Also, this battery is USDT (US Department of Transport) approved as a safe, non-spillable product. However, this product is quite heavy, weighing 77.8 pounds or 35.29 kg. This battery features vibration resistance and protects against high-impact shock. The quality materials used to make this product increase its service life up to 10 years. 

Quick Summary

• Brand: ODYSSEY

• Voltage: 12 Volts

• Battery Cell Composition: Lead-Acid, AGM

• Item Weight: 77.8 Pounds

• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 13.06 x 6.89 x 9.59 inches

• Terminal Type: Stud Terminal

Why did we pick the ODYSSEY 31-PC2150S?

Even though it’s a pricey product, it has some amazing features that have blown our minds. It has a very fast recharging capability, probably the fastest among all SLA (sealed lead acid) batteries. It can endure the most extreme temperatures. It’s a maintenance-free battery, therefore, you don’t need to worry about watering or other factors. It doesn’t produce any gas or fumes. Also, this battery has a long shelf life. And lastly, high shock and vibration resistance reduces the chance of functionality failure.

5. Optima Batteries 8052-161 D31M Deep Cycle Battery

The Optima Bluetop 8052-161 D31M Deep Cycle Battery is versatile and can be used as a marine battery or an extensive power supply. This battery uses SpiralCell technology, which improves fast charging capability and conductivity. Therefore, it recharges three times faster than conventional batteries.

It can also be used for RVs. It’s a spillproof battery that doesn’t need watering. And therefore, you can mount in any position except upside down without worrying. The battery can reserve power to provide a constant supply for 155 minutes. Its vibration and impact resistance capability is fifteen times higher than the traditional batteries.

Quick Summary

• Brand: Optima

• Voltage: 12 Volts

• Battery Cell Composition: Lead-Acid, AGM

• Item Weight: 59.8 Pounds

• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 12.81 x 6.56 x 9.3 Inch

• Cold Cranking Amps: 900 CCA

• Service Type: Marine and ground

Why did we pick the Optima Batteries 8052-161 D31M?

We picked Optima Batteries 8052-161 D31M because it’s multipurpose. It has a well-to-do cold-cranking amps. It’s a maintenance-free battery. This battery is a great engine starter. The stainless steel dual SAE post increases conductivity and resists corrosion. Therefore, this battery provides better cold-cranking performance and is durable throughout harsh conditions. Its hard cover ensures sustainability. Also, this battery can undergo a huge electrical load required from accessories. Therefore, many prefer using this in their RVs for its constant power supply. 

6. VMAX MR137-120 AGM Sealed Marine Battery (subject to availability)

Our last pick for the group 31 battery. It has an 8 to 10-year lifespan. This battery uses Electrolyte Suspension sysp 31 battery is a deep cycle battery from the VMaxTanks. The VMax MR137-120 is a 12-volt heavy-duty AGM battery. This battery has them, which absorb the electrolyte completely. This battery has a capacity of 120 AH and a reserve capacity of 230 minutes.

The material used in this product is lead-tin alloy, which enhances the performance and service life. This battery includes a handle for easy portability. A tough tank seals this non-hazardous battery. This large battery has a very low self-discharge rate of 1 to 2 percent per month. Low internal resistance lets the battery discharge deeply. 

Quick Summary

• Brand: VMaxTanks

• Voltage: 12 Volts

• Battery Cell Composition: Lead-Acid, AGM

• Item Weight: 74 Pounds

• Item Dimensions LxWxH: 13 x 6.8 x 8.8 inch

• Service Type: 

Why did we pick the VMAX MR137-120?

We picked the VMAX MR137-120 because this is one of the best productions from the VMaxTanks. AGM or absorbed glass material batteries are spill-proof. Therefore, you are tension-free of any spillage. And no requirement for watering or gravity checking. Another plus of this battery, besides the long life span, is that it can recover after deep discharges. The quality material doesn’t let the performance fall even after repeated discharges. Long reserve capacity to supply power. However, it’s big in size, and the handle enhances portability with a carriable weight. Lastly, this battery is multipurpose and durable. Therefore, there are no reasons not to include it in our best Group 31 Marine battery list.

Advantages of Group 31 Batteries

There are some advantages of the best group 31 trolling motor battery that you may not find in other types of batteries. These characteristics make them unique from others. So, the benefits you can get from a Group 31 battery are as belows-

• Group 31 batteries require low to no maintenance at all depending on the type you’re using.
• Due to the low internal resistance the battery is capable of supplying consistent high current.
• It offers three to five times faster recharging.
• It also offers great vibration resistance and high impact protection.
• It has a greater cycle life with the flooded system.
• AGM batteries are spill proof.
• These batteries are corrosion resistant.
• These batteries have good cold cranking ability. Therefore, they are perfect as engine starters in cold temperatures.

With the advantages come some limitations. Therefore, consider the drawbacks of the group 31 batteries when shopping for it.

How do you replace and use a Group 31 battery in a car?

Follow these steps to replace a car battery with a Group 31 battery-

Step 1: Shut off the engine. Put on the emergency brake. Now, open the hood.

Step 2: Then, loosen the connector on the terminal post and on the negative battery terminal. And then, unscrew the connector on the positive post.

Step 3: Bring out the old battery. Then change the battery holder and hold downs if you need to.

Step 4: Now clean up any corrosive residue around the place using a wire brush or sandpaper. And wipe off the dirt clean.

Step 5: Keep the new Group 31 battery in the battery holder in a way that it doesn’t move.

Step 6: Place it in the car and secure it properly.

Step 7: Now reconnect the terminals, first the negative one and then the positive.

Step 8: You’re done with replacing the old car battery with a new group 31 battery. Now you can start the car and use the Group 31 battery as you need.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Group 31 Battery?

So there are some benchmarks that indicate the best products among all the group 31 batteries. You need to look for those aspects when buying a Group 31 battery. Here are the factors that you should look for when buying a Group 31 battery-

Reserve Capacity

Group 31 batteries should have excellent reserve capacity to supply power when in need. Because if the main power switch cuts off then you might need a secondary power supply unit. Therefore, the better the reserve capacity of the Group 31 battery, the  longer you will get power supply. So, look for the biggest option when it comes to the reserve capacity.

Battery Size and Weight

BCI or Battery Council International determines the standard group 31 battery size and weight for a particular type of battery. The ideal dimension for a group 31 battery is 13″ length, 6.8″ width, and 9.44″ height approximately. Therefore, you should look for the batteries that have a dimension around the mentioned size.

A compact battery should have a carriable weight according to its size. The ideal weight for a lithium-ion battery is upto 30 pounds where for a lead acid battery it is up to 80 pounds.

Maintenance

There are two types of group 31 batteries- low maintenance battery and maintenanace-free battery. The low miantenance battery requires occasional check up of the acid level and needs watering through the capos to maintain it. This type of battery is not sealed. Hence there is a chance of spillage. And the maintenance-free type is sealed and does not require any watering or acid level check up. Also, these are spill proof. So, the maintenance-free version is the best fit for marine engines and heavy vehicles.

Cold Cranking Amps/ CCA

Cold Cranking Amps/ CCA refers to the engine cranking ability of the battery in an extreme cold temperature. In a freezing temperature, the engine gets frozen as well. The battery needs cranking power to get it started. Therefore, more cranking power is better for the engine to wake up in a snowy situation.

Warranty

The best products undoubtedly have a greater warranty period. Producers of the best products are confident about their product quality. So, they give bigger warranty periods for their products. So, before buying a group 31 battery, along with other factors compare the warranty period of the product with similar options.

Battery Design

Batteries come in various shapes and designs. A particular vehicle may need a particular type of battery. Some batteries are designed with spiral plates, whereas some may have thin plates in increased numbers. Therefore there is a slight difference in their power supply capability. You need to check that out too and pick the one according to your demand.

Another considerable fact of the design is the body structure. Some are sturdy built and prevent leakage, but others don’. So, go for the one that uses quality materials and has a solid construction. And dual pupose batteries have two terminals where the single purpose batteries have one. So, you have to pick according to your needs.

Price

Last but not the least factor is price. The cheapest group 31 battery doesn’t necessarily have to be a quality-less product. You can get a great product within a budget price without getting robbed. 

Best Group 31 Battery FAQs

1. What are Group 31 batteries?

Group 31 batteries are an improved version of the conventional SLA batteries. They feature deep cycling, larger battery capacity of 20h, high reserve capacity of 150-250 hours, cold cranking capacity between 750-1250 CCA, deep discharging capability, and many more. These batteries are perfect for heavy vehicles like- RVs, trucks, boats and for home backups.

2. How long do Group 31 batteries last?

Group 31 batteries can last from 150 to 250 minutes depending on a particular battery size.

3. How many amp-hours is a Group 31 battery?

Group 31 batteries are capable of providing a supply of 95 to 125 Amp-hours.

4. Are all Group 31 batteries the same size?

No, not all the group 31 batteries are the same. But they have an ideal dimension of 13 inches in length, 6.8 inches in width, and 9.4 inch height.

5. What is the difference between Group 24 and Group 31 batteries?

There are many differences between the group 24 and group 31 batteries, but the most noticeable one is the battery capacity. The group 31 battery has a higher power supply and reserving capability than the Group 24 category.

Which is the best Group 31 battery? Why should you pick this one?

Though we’ve put the best products in this list, we think the ODYSSEY is our winner. Even though it has a hefty price tag and bulky weight, this battery has a high CCA margin. It recharges faster than other batteries on the list and has a high depth of discharge of 80%. It has an incredible cold tolerance and low self-discharge rate. Additionally, it can be stored in a charged condition for up to 2 years without any recharging. The battery has a high vibration and impact resistance and 10 years of service life. All these features make the ODYSSEY an unbeatable competition.

Best Group 31 Battery – Conclusion

Group 31 batteries are one of the most versatile batteries in the market. Their constant power supply efficient performance makes them unique and useful in different situations. However, they are mostly used as marine batteries and popular as emergency power supply and heavy-duty vehicle batteries.

You might have already chosen the best marine group 31 battery for your particular reason. But if you’re still stumped, let me help you get through the stressful situation. As our editor team has already chosen the best group 31 battery from the list above, you can pick that if you have no price issue. But if you have a tight budget, go for the Banshee Group 31 Sealed AGM Deep Cycle Dual Purpose battery. This battery, though it has a bulky weight, it is made of quality product and has a low self-discharge rate over the month. It’s a value-for-money product.