Get the Most Out of Your RV Battery
Les Schwab is here to help you get the most out of your RV batteries, whether you need to recharge, replace, or you have questions about the best battery setup for your needs. Getting a charge out of your RV and trailer adventures begins and ends with the right battery.
Keeping Your Batteries Charged
During the winter months and long stretches where the battery will not be used, be sure to take your batteries out of your RV or trailer and hook them up to a trickle charger. These small units plug directly into a 110-volt outlet and allow you to keep your batteries fresh and fully charged until you’re ready for your next outdoor adventure.
Les Schwab Tip: It’s a good idea to get your RV and trailer batteries fully charged every year. If your 12-volt battery reaches just 11.2 volts, it’s considered completely discharged. Your local Les Schwab does free battery charging and visual inspections.
12-volt vs. 6-volt
Almost every RV and trailer will come equipped with one or even two 12-volt batteries running in parallel. There’s nothing wrong with this setup. The battery boxes and enclosures are built for those size of batteries. But with a few changes, and a switch to a series of 6-volt batteries, you might get more reserve capacity, which means you can draw power for a longer amount of time between charges.
The benefits of a standard 12-volt battery include the uniformity (your RV or trailer will most often come with 12-volt batteries), cost (12-volt batteries can be less expensive), and simple installation. However, 12-volt batteries may not recharge as quickly as a 6-volt. When it comes to power and longevity, it can take up to three 12-volt batteries running in parallel to match the amp hours in a series of two 6-volt batteries.
Other benefits of running 6-volt batteries in series include a larger amp hour capacity (the amount of time you can use the battery), and a longer battery lifespan. The only real downside is that there may be size differences. 6-volt batteries can sometimes be taller. This can require changes to your battery box or battery storage area.
Les Schwab is Your Battery Expert
Stop by your local Les Schwab before you head out on your first RV or trailer outing of the season. Our team of professionals is here to ensure your batteries are properly charged and installed correctly with our best-in-the-business warranty.