What I learned about maintaining batteries while boondocking
To charge with the onboard or use an external stand alone charger. Here's what I concluded during my week of boondocking. https://youtu.be/IgQTtnEXlU4
Forum Discussion
westend wrote:
OK, I'm back from the battery checking. For reference--2 x 6V GC2 Energizer Sam's club batteries. I also have a small bank of AGM's but didn't bother to even look at them.
The solar is working on float and it is 22f as I type. Battery voltage is at a temp compensated 14.5 on my Fluke, 14.43 on the Victron monitor, and 14.5/6 on the analog gauge. There is no load on the batteries, not even an alarm.
Specific Gravity was close in all cells, 1.280 with one cell 1.275. I found the electrolyte in the cell closest to the positive terminal just covering the plates. Distilled water was added to all cells. Target SG for typical 6V batteries at this temperature would be 1.265 but these Energizers have always measured higher. Baseline SG at 80f was around 1.290-> 1.300, when new.
I'm happy this thread reminded me to look at my 6V's. A few more days of bright sun and cold temps may have put the plates of that one cell exposed. I'll need to monitor the electrolyte on a tighter schedule than once or twice a year, I guess.
I found this FAQ from Trojan to be a fairly good guide about battery maintenance and charging: Trojan FAQ.
I would give those batteries a good equalize charge at 15.6 volts. The Energizers are Interstate batteries. You should float them at 13.4v or even 13.2v if the camper's just in storage. That will minimize fluid loss. For storage I make sure mine are fully charged and then set absorb and float to 13.4v. My charger has temp compensation. Seems to keep them fully charged and use little water.
