Opinions on gel batteries

[Verado Eyes]

I need opinions on gel batteries and i will be running 3 - batteries for 101,
This boat is in rough waves. I have never used them but would like the truth about them

[REW]

They work,
They are expensive.
They will last at least a year.

[Prov275]

Optimas 31 series i know a lot of people on here don't like em,But i love em wouldn't have anything else you get what you pay for.

[acar555]

Optima batteries are AGM. They are not Gel. AGM batteries charge like standard wet lead acid batteries do, gel batteries require special charging.

[Explorer]

A waste of your money

[GarryB]

I bought my Optima batteries in April 2007 and I have had zero problems with them. Well worth the money in my opinion.

[Verado Eyes]

What are the Interstate Pro ECL series, Pro 29m batteries like?

[4JawChuck]

I only use gel batteries in high frequency vibration products like motorcycles, ATVs etc, in those applications they are worth the extra cost. For marine I prefer AGMs, I think a gel battery is overkill for a boat...not that it wouldn't work just fine though.

[1860Angler]

I wouldnt waste the money on gel batteries in a boat. I would do Group 31 AGM batteries.

[Burr]

Originally Posted by 208prov

What are the Interstate Pro ECL series, Pro 29m batteries like?

The Pro ECL Series is a new battery from Interstate. Instead of spiral canisters like the Optima, the lead is in flat mats.

They are designed for rather long service intervals. We are looking at them for usage in our Refridgeration units on Semi Trailers. @ $40 more than Optimas. It's nice to not have to deal with acid in the boat, vibration is not as destructive, and recharging is faster. I can't say I see any longer service life than acid batteries. Warranty has been important for me on Optimas, I thought hard about pushing for the Pro ECL model but with my Optima warranty coverage, the new Optimas were in my boat before I reall had the chance to discuss it.