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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.
Refasten the retainer strap when
returning the battery to the compart-
ment.
WARNING
California Proposition 65 Warn-
ing:
Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to
the state of California to cause cancer
and reproductive harm. Wash hands
after handling.
WARNING