5 RV battery facts

Whether you’ve just purchased a new Recreational Vehicle (RV) or you want to know more about the battery you need to run one, here are some helpful facts to know. Installing, charging, and maintaining an RV battery is unique from other batteries.

1. How do you install it?

The first step is turning off all powered items in the RV, including any appliances and lights. Next, the current battery must be disconnected (negative than positive). Simply insert the new battery, reattach the cables, and install the battery-securing hardware if it has it.

2. How do you charge it?

Driving can charge an RV battery, as can a connection to an electrical outlet. Every RV is fitted with an RV converter/charger that helps produce power using a 12-volt DC, channeling it to the adapter. A generator can also help keep a battery charged while an RV battery monitor helps to keep track of battery power levels.

3. How is an RV battery monitor used?

The monitor shows exactly where the energy level is in an RV battery. It measures the energy flowing into and out of the unit. It also displays its current state of charge or discharge. These monitors include LCDs that show this important data, and some models include other added features like temperature readings and Bluetooth connectivity for monitoring data via a smartphone.

4. How long does an RV battery last?

The lifetime of any battery depends on usage, maintenance, and battery type. Lithium-ion versions can last a long time — sometimes for as many as 5,000 charge cycles. Deep-cycle versions may last up to 500 charge cycles.

5. How should it be maintained for a long life?

While it depends on the type of battery being used, for the most part, keeping an RV battery in good shape means keeping it clean and monitoring it regularly. Lithium batteries require very little upkeep overall, but most batteries come with instructions on how to best handle and maintain them. Electrolyte levels must be monitored in flooded-cell batteries which need distilled-water replenishment after several charge cycles.

Note: battery terminals should stay corrosion-free, so if you do see corrosion forming, use a mixture of water and baking soda or a commercial battery-contact cleaning solution and scrub the terminals with a toothbrush until clean.

Be sure to contact the friendly professionals at Lifeline Batteries when any questions or concerns arise about your RV battery or any other vehicle batteries. We are always glad to share our knowledge and advice.