SECTION 6
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
6-8
BATTERY STORAGE AND
MAINTENANCE
Lead -acid type batteries are electro-chemical
devices for storing and releasing electrical
charge. As such, they are simply an electrical res-
ervoir, not an electrical source. As soon as energy
is removed from the battery, it should be replaced
by the engine alternator or the RV converter sys-
tem.
If a battery sits unused for 30 days or more, es-
pecially during warm weather, it can develop a
deposit of sulfate crystals on the metal plates in-
side the battery. This conditions is called sulfac-
tion or sulfating, and prevents the battery from
either releasing or accepting a charge. If this con-
dition occurs, the battery must be replaced.
If a battery does not contain at least 80%
charge during freezing temperatures, the electro-
lyte can freeze and crack the battery case.
The two best defenses
against sulfating and
insufficient charge are to:
1. turn off the Auxiliary Battery switch to avoid
parasitic discharge (the trickle discharge
caused by directly connected components
like LP gas detectors or digital clock dis-
plays, etc.), and
2. check the battery and recharge as necessary
at least once a month during long storage
periods.
Further precautions are:
·
Remove the battery from the coach.
·
Store it in a cool place on a wooden or rubber
pad to inhibit conductive transfer.
·
Check the state of charge periodically to
avoid discharge or sulfating.
To ensure that the battery will always accept
and hold a charge, follow these simple mainte-
nance practices.
·
Make sure the batteries always remain se-
curely clamped in the battery tray.
·
Make sure battery cable clamps are tight on
the terminal posts and are free of corrosion.
·
Neutralize corrosion buildup or acid film on
top of battery by washing with a baking soda/
water solution. Rinse with clear water.
NOTE: Make sure vent caps are on securely to
prevent baking soda solution from enter-
ing the battery and contaminating the
electrolyte fluid.
WARNING
Refasten the retainer strap when
returning the battery to the compart-
ment..
House Battery Storage
in Entrance Step
Models 27’, 29’ & 31’
WARNING
Before removing any battery cables or
battery, make sure all 12-volt equip-
ment in the motor home is off and the
power cord has been disconnected.
Replace any damaged cables at once.
Always remove jewelry and wear pro-
tective clothing and eye covering
when checking or handling batteries
Refasten the retainer strap when
returning the battery to the compart-
ment.
