Without a functional battery in the caravan, it will not be possible to rest, and in the case of a motorhome, even the journey itself will not be possible. That is why batteries in camping vehicles should be carefully looked after.
What kind of battery for a motorhome?
In the case of a motorhome, we will deal with two types of batteries - the first is the starter battery , which must quickly provide a large amount of energy to the engine in order to start it. For this reason, such a battery will have a different structure and parameters than the utility battery. The latter is installed in the residential parts of motorhomes and caravans, and its role is to supply power to on-board devices.
However, it should be remembered that in the case of cars with a residential function, some devices (e.g. located in the driver's cockpit) will also draw power from the starter battery when parked. It is very important. A few days' stay at the campsite without starting the engine may mean that when we want to change our place of stay, it will not be easy.
It is precisely deep discharge that poses the greatest risk to any battery. In typical batteries, the vehicle may be immobilized when the discharge reaches 25% , and it may not be possible to recharge a deeply discharged battery. Gel batteries are better in this respect - even if such a battery is 90% discharged, it can still be saved.
Battery life cycles
Good to know that battery life is defined in cycles - discharging and recharging a battery takes one cycle. This service life can be increased if we do not allow for deep discharge, or we can reduce it by using the battery to the limit.
The weather conditions also affect the battery life and state of charge. Batteries withstand high humidity and temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius the worst. However, sub-zero temperatures are also dangerous. Therefore, if you do not use a camping vehicle in the autumn and winter period, it is best to disconnect the battery and move it to a warm and dry (but not hot) place.
Modern campers and caravans are often equipped with an on -board computer that monitors the current condition of the batteries. Some systems even protect the batteries from being discharged too deeply. However, instead of waiting for the action to activate the system, which will preventively cut off the current at the right moment, it is best to check the charge indicator on an ongoing basis.
If the battery does discharge in spite of this, it is best to try and restore its working order using a charger that charges the battery slowly . This will reduce the risk of damaging it. Some chargers also have a battery regeneration feature that can help in situations where a regular charger can't handle it anymore.
In order for the battery to work for a long time and be fully functional, it is worth paying some attention to it on a daily basis. Batteries are very sensitive to pollution, so both the battery itself and the terminals should be regularly cleaned, free from any tarnish. A special brush can be used for cleaning. For a better effect, the poles and clamps can be protected against oxidation with technical petroleum jelly .
A properly maintained battery can serve us for many years.
Sometimes it is better to get lost than to ask for directions too much. Aldous Huxley
