Batteries are generally misunderstood and almost universally ignored until they fail. The purpose of all batteries is to store chemical energy and to convert this chemical energy into electrical energy when the need arises.
There are three types of batteries commonly used in RVs: flooded lead acid, gel, and absorbed glass mat (AGM). All of these depend on lead acid chemistry. The difference is the method and the material in which the acid is contained and the grid or plate material, which is either lead antimony or lead calcium. The type of battery, the method used to contain the lead acid, and the type of material used as plates, is basically what will determine the battery’s cost.
When a lead-acid battery is discharged, electrolyte and the active material on the plates of the battery are consumed and produce water and lead sulfate. When a lead-acid battery is charged, the process is basically reversed.
The application for which the battery is to be used is of critical importance: engine starting or house batteries. Although many RVs use the same batteries for both, the tasks are very different and batteries specifically designed for the application should be used.
Engine starting is a relatively easy task for a battery and is usually best accomplished by a battery constructed with many thin plates. This allows large amounts of current (amps) to flow readily from the starting motor and is quickly recharged by an engine-driven alternator with a typical automotive type regulator.
House batteries, the batteries that supply power to your electronics, lighting, pumps and other appliances in your RV are a different matter entirely. These batteries are required to supply power over long periods of time. For these applications, thick plate “deep-cycle,” batteries are in order. These batteries are designed to allow deep discharge (up to 50 percent of rated capacity) and can be recharged many times. Although batteries claiming to be “deep-cycles” vary widely, a general rule is that top quality flooded lead-acid types will give the longest cycle life, followed by AGMs and gels. Four years is the average life cycle of RV house batteries.
Next month we will discuss charging methods and maintaining your RV batteries. Enjoy the RV life, and be safe.
Final Touch Coach Works is located at 28532 Livingston Avenue in Valencia. For more information, please call 661-775-8375 or visit www.FinalTouch-USA.com .