
I won’t go into detail about them here, but there is a wealth of information available online if you’re interested. However, while lithium-ion batteries offer many benefits to the RVer, they’re expensive. If you are upgrading an RV battery or building a boondocking battery setup, you may want to think about these batteries. While lead-acid batteries are still the most common type in RVs, more options are becoming available for other battery types, including lithium-ion batteries, the same kind of battery used to power most electric cars. However, one thing to note about batteries is that if they’re not maintained, they will eventually fail, which may be the source of your RV battery woes. If you don’t have this, you can quickly look it up online at the manufacturer’s website. Since every battery is a little different, you will need to refer to your battery’s documentation to determine if and how you need to maintain it. AGM batteries are sealed and typically won’t require maintenance. When a reverse current gets applied to the battery (through a battery charger or your RV converter), it creates electrons, stored in the battery, and made available when you need power.įlooded wet cell batteries will usually require maintenance, including adding the right amount of distilled water to the battery. Each battery cell contains lead plates with a separator and an electrolyte solution (water and sulfuric acid). However, putting differences aside, all lead-acid batteries function similarly. Finally, gel cell batteries are the least popular and not the best option for an RV because of slow charging limitations. The AGM is the next most popular, but most manufacturers don’t supply these as standard since they are more expensive. The most common type in an RV is a flooded wet cell. They’re available in three types: flooded wet cell, absorbed gas mat (AGM), and gel cell. The most popular type of deep-cycle battery that typically ships with an RV is lead-acid batteries. Tell me more about RV Batteries: Common RV batteries types Therefore, if you plan to run your RV disconnected from shore power for extended periods, you should consider upgrading your battery to a larger battery bank.

Some of the more common appliances that operate off your RV battery are low power items like your lights, slide mechanisms, awning, propane refrigerator, propane furnace, water pump, audio system, and igniter for your water heater.Įven those these are lower-demand appliances and electronics, they can still quickly deplete an RV battery if used heavily. As mentioned above, an RV battery will only run 12V appliances and electronics (unless you have it wired with an inverter). However, be aware- many RVs won’t come standard with an inverter.įor now, we’re just going to focus on DC power and your battery. This task is possible with an inverter, which converts DC power to AC electricity. In some RVs, and with the correct battery setup, you may also be able to power some AC appliances. Your battery gets charged by the AC using something called a converter. When you’re not connected, your appliances and electronics designed to run off DC will utilize the energy stored in the battery.

When you connect to shore power, your RV is receiving AC electricity. This setup makes it very convenient when camping both on and off the grid. In an RV, these two types of electricity work together. Electric Fireplace Not Heating-An Ultimate Guide
