6-9
SECTION 6 –
ELECTRICAL
BATTERY CARE
Lead-acid type batteries are electro-chemical
devices for storing and releasing electrical
charge. As such, they are simply an electrical
reservoir, 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 system.
If a battery sits unused for 30 days or more,
especially during warm weather, it can develop a
deposit of sulfate crystals on the metal plates
inside the battery. This condition is called
“sulfating” and prevents the battery from either
releasing or accepting a charge. If this condition
occurs, the battery must be replaced.
If a battery does not contain at least 80%
charge during freezing temperatures, the
electrolyte can freeze and crack the battery case.
The two best defenses against sulfating
and insufficient charge are to:
1. Turn off the House/Coach Battery Disconnect
(House/Coach Batt) switch to avoid parasitic
discharge (the trickle discharge caused by
directly connected components like propane
gas detectors or digital clock displays, etc.)
2. Check the battery and recharge as necessary at
least once a month during long storage
periods. Turn the House/Coach Batt Switch
off to avoid electrical arcing when attaching
or detaching charger clamps.
NOTE: We do not recommend leaving the
shoreline plugged in continuously during
storage periods because the batteries
can lose electrolytic fluids and become
damaged from continuous charging
without periodic use or maintenance.
We recommend following regular battery
inspection and maintenance, especially
in cold weather.
Further precautions are:
•
Remove the battery from the coach.
•
Store it in a cool place.
•
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
maintenance practices:
•
Make sure the batteries always remain
securely 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
entering the battery and contaminating
the electrolyte fluid.
WARNING
Always refasten battery retainers when
returning a battery to the compartment.
Chassis Batteries
House
Batteries
WARNING
California Proposition 65 Warning:
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.
