RV Battery System

Are your battery systems in check?

Here are 5 questions you need to ask yourself.

1. Are your batteries “deep cycle” batteries optimized for RVs?

Batteries may look identical externally but differ significantly internally. Deep cycle batteries are essential for powering RV equipment and electronics, unlike automotive starter batteries designed for engine ignition.

RV Care Traveler's Choice deep cycle batteries are optimized for RV use. They deliver superior longevity compared to standard automotive batteries.

For RVs with numerous electronic devices, AGM and gel batteries offer premium power solutions. These sealed, maintenance-free alternatives perform identically to flooded batteries without requiring water additions.

2. Does your battery system have enough capacity to meet your needs?

If AC power access is unavailable during off-grid camping, adequate battery capacity becomes critical to avoid unexpected power loss during vacations.

As a rule of thumb, your battery system should have enough capacity to provide at least twice the expected power draw required before the batteries will be recharged.

To maximize battery life, your battery system should not be discharged more than 50% between recharges. Fully recharging after every trip preserves battery health regardless of usage duration.

3. Do your batteries pass a visual inspection?

• Clean battery terminals using a baking soda and water mixture with a wire brush, ensuring solid cable connections and peak efficiency.
• Wipe battery tops with a warm water and baking soda solution to prevent moisture-induced discharge pathways.
• Inspect battery cases and covers for cracks or leaks requiring immediate replacement.
• Monitor for bulging, which may indicate blocked safety vents in flooded batteries (slight AGM bulging is normal).

Important safety note: When handling batteries be sure to wear protective gloves and eyewear. Battery electrolyte is highly acidic and can burn through skin and clothing.

4. Is your battery maintenance up to date?

Flooded deep cycle batteries lose water through evaporation during recharging. Regular water level checks using distilled water are necessary, never exceeding the fill line.

Always add water after a full recharge and cooling. Adding water before recharging risks overflow and acid loss during the charging cycle, reducing power output.

NEVER CHARGE A FROZEN BATTERY. Doing so may cause the battery to explode.

Note that AGM and gel batteries are fully sealed and maintenance-free, which means they never need to be watered.

5. How old are your batteries?

Battery lifespan depends on usage frequency, power draw levels, operating temperature, maintenance quality, and off-season storage methods. On average, you can expect your battery system to last 2–3 years or perhaps longer when properly sized for your needs and adequately maintained.

After two years, ask us for a state-of-health assessment at the start of the season and at service visits for a reliable longevity estimate.

RV battery recycling

Canada is beautiful, let’s keep it that way!

When purchasing RV Traveler's Choice batteries, return used batteries for a $15 credit per battery toward the cost of the new one.

Lead batteries represent the planet's most recycled consumer product — exceeding glass, paper, and plastic recycling rates. Nearly 100% of lead battery content is fully recyclable. Together we can keep batteries out of landfills and conserve our environment.

Winter RV battery storage

Battery self-discharge occurs naturally during storage. Temperature affects discharge rates — cold slows the process while heat accelerates it. Partial discharge storage causes "plate sulfation", where lead sulfate crystallizes on plates, permanently reducing power generation capacity.

1. Remove corrosion using a baking soda and water mixture, then clean and dry battery tops.
2. Clean terminals with a wire brush to eliminate corrosion traces.
3. Disconnect stored vehicle batteries to prevent parasitic load discharge.
4. Fully charge batteries before storage.
5. Check electrolyte levels in removable-cap batteries; add distilled water below filler tubes after charging.
6. Maintain battery charge above 75% state-of-charge (12.4 volts).
7. Store in cool, dry locations between 32°F and 80°F; prevent freezing.
8. Never apply trickle charges exceeding 48 hours.

Proper winter preparation and consistent charge maintenance maximizes possible battery service life.