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Cardinals's avatar
Cardinals
Explorer
Oct 18, 2018

Battery Maintenance

It is that time of year here in upstate NY to winterize the trailer. Had a great season if you don't count the two hurricanes which led to early departures from our campsites.

Here is my question. Each year I remove the battery and store it in the basement. In May I will bring it up and start using a trickle charger to get it ready. I was told that I should also check the water level each month (over the winter) and add water as needed. I have only added water once to the battery but now I am wondering if I need to do more, and how often and how much distilled water. Any information or advice is appreciated.
  • Distilled water, not tap water. Tap water contains minerals that shorten battery life.
  • “How do you know how much water to add?”

    I’d suggest REreading the battery manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Cardinals wrote:
    How do you know how much water to add?


    Fill to just below the bottom of the vent tube...

  • If you fully charge the batteries then disconnect one of the lugs you can leave them out for the winter. Then top up the 10% charge in the spring that was lost over the winter. That way where is no need to have to check the electrolyte level.
  • I do about the same.clean post check water, but I leave my charger on all the time, keeps the battery at top charge.