Service | Powering your RV | Battery Care

Deep cycle batteries are used to power trolling motors or lights in a camper or a stereo in a van and are designed differently than the battery you use to start your car.

The automotive battery in your car delivers only short bursts of energy and then the alternator takes over, providing the electrical power to run the car and recharge the slightly discharged battery.

Plate Design & Function make the Difference

The plates in Power Connection deep cycle batteries have a higher density active material than standard automotive plates. This higher density material enables the plates to withstand the active material or capacity.

The grid alloy in a deep cycle battery is specially formulated to increase the active material adhesion to the grid, thereby providing additional protection against the stresses and abuses of cycling and vibration.

Three Simple Maintenance Tips Assure Longer Battery Life

1. Regularly clean the battery container and terminals. Apply baking soda to any corrosion and flush entire cover with water. Be sure the vent caps are tight before cleaning to prevent water or baking soda from entering into the cells.

2. Check your battery's water level before charging. If the level is low, add sufficient (distilled) water to cover the plates. After charging, check and add distilled water to bring level up to the bottom of the vent walls. Do not overfill. Distilled water is best for long battery life. But, if it's not available, it's better to use a good grade of drinking water than to add nothing at all. Remember, like automotive batteries, once a portion of the plate gets damaged it loses much, if not all of its capacity.

3. Recharge your battery as soon as possible after discharge. Never leave it discharged for an extended period of time.

Battery Care - Recharging Procedure for Maximum Cycle Life

1. Deep cycle batteries should deliver in excess of 200 deep cycles if they are recharged properly after each use. Charge acceptance diminishes greatly if the battery is not recharged as soon as possible.

Battery Care - Recharging Guidelines for Maximum Battery Life

1. Recharge immediately after each use.

2. Use a battery charger that's matched to your battery size. A charger that's too small will require too much charging time. A charger that's too large is a waste of money. Talk to a Bucars Parts Associate for a charger that meets your needs.

3. Do not overcharge your battery. Overcharging causes grid corrosion and reduces battery life. An automatic charger that turns itself off or a charger with a timer is your best bet.

4. Always trickle-charge a deep cycle battery. Never fast charge or boost charge it.

5. Normally, a 10 to 12-hour charge with an appropriate charger at the correct ampere rate will bring your battery to full charge from a deep discharge condition.

Battery Care - How To Select The Right Deep Cycle Battery for Your Needs

1. Determine the number of AMPS your electrical system requires.

2. Estimate the amount of time in hours you require your battery to operate without recharging.

3. Match those two numbers to the battery selection chart to determine which deep cycle battery is right for you.

Storing Your Battery for Long Periods of Time

If you use your battery for seasonal activities only and must store it for extended periods of time, three simple steps will ensure that it will be ready for use next year.

1. Charge the battery until it is completely charged.

2. Store it in a cool place such as a basement or garage but not where it will consistently go below 32F. All batteries lose some charge when stored. Lower temperatures decrease the rate at which the , battery will discharge.

3. Check the battery every two months and recharge it if necessary.

Warnings and Cautions

Warning

Marine batteries contain sulfuric acid that can cause severe burns. Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing.

Caution

Batteries also produce explosive gases that can cause blindness or other serious injury if ignited. Keep all sparks, flames and smoking materials away from batteries and always shield eyes when near batteries. When charging or using in an enclosed space, ventilate.