WE SERVICE RVS 19 YEARS OLD AND NEWER!
In addition to fixing plumbing issues that resulted from RVs not being winterized correctly or not at all, the replacement of RV batteries is one of the top items that Colorado’s Premier RV Services gets requests for in the springtime. To help mitigate additional stress for our customers in the spring and to help you save some money, we have laid out the do’s and don’ts of off season battery storage.
It’s important to clean the battery casing and the terminals thoroughly before you connect anything to it and to keep it clean throughout the battery’s life cycle. Dirt and corrosion can increase a battery’s discharge rate. As long as the battery is properly cleaned before it is stored, you should be able to keep it clean and dust free with just a clean dry rag for dusting.
One of the worst things you can do is store a battery away for months at a time without charging it. All batteries have a natural rate of self-discharge. By not charging the battery fully prior to storage, it increases the probability that you will have a completely dead battery that can’t be revived this spring.
If you’re not planning on removing the battery completely from the RV, you’ll need to make sure that the battery is disconnected from any and all terminals. It’s important that nothing touches the battery terminals that could potentially create a discharge.
Whether you will be using a trickle charger or just plan to hook up a standard charger every so often while the battery is in storage, it’s important to make sure that you have the charger you need and that it is in good working order. A battery that has been kept charged throughout its lifecycle will last longer and perform at peak levels throughout its lifespan.
Your batteries should be stored off the ground and in a temperature controlled environment. Moisture and extreme temperatures will increase your batteries’ rate of self-discharge. It is best to store the battery above 32°F and below 80°F.
Batteries are not items you can put away for the winter and forget about. They have to be checked and maintained throughout the entire time they are in storage. Pay attention to the charge levels. Some maintenance chargers have an auto shut-off and some don’t. You’ll want to make sure your charger is keeping the battery right in the charge range as outlined by the manufacturer.
If you are in the market for one, we use this Battery Tender by Deltran.
Once you know how, properly storing a battery is an easy and effective way to lengthen the life of your battery and keep it working like new. Of course, if you find yourself in need of a new battery, Colorado’s Premier RV Services can help. As an Interstate Battery authorized dealer, we have what you need in stock. If you are looking to upgrade, ask about Battleborn Lithium batteries.
SERVING NORTHERN COLORADO
Mon: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Tue: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Wed: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Thu: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Fri: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
Sat: Closed
Sun: Closed