When you purchased a nice used Coachman Class C motorized motorhome or maybe a Class A motorized Gulf Stream, you would be forgiven for thinking that all you have to do now is stock the kitchen, fill the gas tank, and depart.
There are, however, a number of small checks you can make before driving away.
Have you checked the battery?
Do you know how to properly maintain it to ensure maximum efficiency?
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your motorhome battery.
Motorhome Battery Tips
First, what type of battery do you have?
Some motorhomes come equipped with a standard 12 volt “starting battery.” These are batteries designed to start the engine. Depending on how you’ll use your motorhome, this may not be the best option. These batteries tend to fail after approximately 30 “deep cycles”. A deep cycle occurs when the battery capacity goes from 100% down to 20% or less. Starter batteries are not designed for this type of use.
If you are going to take long trips or live out of your motorhome, you may do better with a 12 volt “deep cycle battery”. This battery is designed to go down to 20% capacity repeatedly. To extend the life of any battery try to keep from going below 40% whenever possible and always consider the battery condition when purchasing any used motorhome.
Another way to prolong battery life is proper maintenance.
It is a good idea to check the electrolyte level of your battery at least once per month. In warmer weather or during periods of heavy use you may want to check it even more often. Refer to the maintenance guide for your particular battery for specific details.
With a little research and careful maintenance, you will be able to get the most out of your motorhome battery.
