RV ENTHUSIAST
RV BATTERY SYSTEM
Travel Trailers and Motorhomes come in a multitude of sizes, with varying on-board devices that require different levels of power.
ARE YOUR BATTERY SYSTEMS IN CHECK?
HERE ARE 5 QUESTIONS YOU NEED TO ASK YOURSELF
1. Are your batteries “deep cycle” batteries optimized for RVs?
Automotive batteries are not designed for the sustained power draws of RV appliances. Use deep cycle batteries to power your RV’s on-board equipment and electronics; RV Care’s Traveler’s Choice batteries are optimized for RV use. AGM and gel batteries are a premium solution — completely interchangeable with regular flooded batteries, with a fully sealed, never-add-water design.
2. Does your battery system have enough capacity to meet your needs?
Your battery system should have enough capacity to provide at least twice the expected power draw required before the batteries will be recharged. To maximize battery life, your battery system should not be discharged more than 50% between recharges.
3. Do your batteries pass a visual inspection?
- Battery terminals clean, for solid connections
- Top of the battery reasonably clean
- Case and cover free of damage
- Check for bulging — note that a slight curve is normal on AGM cases
When handling batteries be sure to wear protective gloves and eyewear. Battery electrolyte is highly acidic.
4. Is your battery maintenance up to date?
- Use distilled water only
- Never add water past the fill line
- Add water after a full recharge and cooldown — NEVER add water before recharging
- NEVER CHARGE A FROZEN BATTERY
- Never check the water levels of a battery before the battery has fully cooled
AGM and gel batteries are fully sealed and maintenance-free.
5. How old are your batteries?
On average, you can expect your battery system to last 2–3 years, or perhaps longer when properly sized for your needs and adequately maintained. Batteries two years or older should have a “state of health” check at the start of the season and at service visits.
RV BATTERY RECYCLING
CANADA IS BEAUTIFUL, LET’S KEEP IT THAT WAY!
When you purchase RV Traveler’s Choice batteries, you can return your used RV batteries for a $15 credit per battery. Lead batteries are the most recycled consumer good on the planet — virtually 100% of a lead battery is fully recyclable.
WINTER RV BATTERY STORAGE
When storing your battery over the winter months, you need to minimize the degree of discharge in order to keep it in good working order.
- Remove corrosion using a baking soda and water mixture.
- Clean the terminals with a wire brush.
- Disconnect the battery if it is stored in the vehicle, to prevent parasitic discharge.
- Fully charge the battery before storage.
- Check the electrolyte level and add distilled water if needed — after charging.
- Always keep your battery above 75% state-of-charge (12.4 volts).
- Store no lower than 32°F (0°C) and no higher than 80°F (27°C).
- Never leave a battery on trickle charge longer than 48 hours.
When batteries sit in a partially discharged state, the lead sulfate on the battery plates starts to crystallize and harden. (This process is known as “plate sulfation.”)
