Spring Battery Check
O’Connor RV
The snow is gone, the roads are clear, and the sun is out. It's spring, which feels like the best time to get the RV out for a cruise. But before you leave the driveway, the crucial elements that you should inspect this season, are your RV's batteries.
The condition of your batteries ultimately depends on how well you stored them over the winter. Batteries can discharge as much as 10% per month, and if they haven't been properly stored and recharged, you will need to take some time to get them ready for use. Before you begin the spring inspection of your batteries, please be sure to put on your safety glasses and your protective gloves. Then make absolutely certain that the shore power is disconnected and that everything in the RV is off, including the main power switches.
When you are fully prepared, inspect the batteries for cracks that may have developed from winter freezing. If you do find a cracked battery, you will have to replace it. If you don't find any cracks, start your spring battery check by giving the battery case a quick clean to remove any dirt.
Then, check that the terminals, connections, and posts are free of corrosion. If you find significant corrosion, use a wire brush along with hot water and baking soda to remove any sulfate deposits.
Next, use a battery tester to ensure the battery has a minimum charge of 12.6 volts. If the charge is below that level, you will need to charge the battery in a well-ventilated area.
Charge the batteries, then check the battery fluid levels and add distilled water as needed. Water should only be added to lead acid batteries after fully charging the battery unless the water level is already below the plates.
If the batteries were removed for storage, reinstall them making sure they are connected properly.
Keep your batteries in good working order by inspecting them before each season. The first trip of the season is also a great time to have your battery tested. Make sure to remove the battery properly and take it into an RV service professional to have the battery tested. If you need to replace your battery, make sure to replace multiple battery banks together.
If you don't feel safe working around batteries, have the maintenance done by an authorized RV repair facility.
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