An RV typically has two batteries: the one used to start and run the engine, and another, often called a deep cycle battery, house battery, or coach battery.
This is the battery that is used to power the RV’s interior lights, devices, and appliances.
As you probably know, power is essential to comfort and function while living in your RV, but what you may not have known (as many do not!) is that these batteries need consistent, ongoing maintenance to perform at their peak.
Specifically, these batteries need to be watered (literally) and can benefit from an RV battery watering system. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Do Lead-Acid Batteries Need to Be Watered?
Lead acid batteries, such as those commonly used as coach batteries in RVs, consist of lead plates submerged in a pool of electrolyte solution composed of water and sulfuric acid.
The lead plates should be fully submerged in the solution, and the water level within the cell is vital to the effective, safe operation of the battery. It mediates the flow of ions through the electrolyte solution – which is what enables batteries to hold and provide a charge.
Once a battery has discharged and needs to be recharged, electricity is directed through the water in the electrolyte between the plates. The process of recharging breaks the water down into its constituent elements, hydrogen and oxygen gas. As a result, recharging also reduces the actual level of water in the battery’s cell.
Failing to maintain a proper water level within the cell will over time expose the lead plates to the air, which can cause corrosion and will adversely affect both the battery’s lifespan as well as its ability to hold a charge.
An RV battery watering system can help prevent this by making it easier for you to maintain the optimal water level in the battery’s cell.
What an RV Battery Watering System Does
An RV battery watering system, like one of Flow-Rite’s 12V, 24V, or 48V watering systems, is a simple, affordable, and effective solution to keeping your deep cycle battery’s cells filled with the optimal level of water.
Their Qwik Fill battery watering systems are easy to install and feature easy-to-cut tubing and fittings for their Pro-Fill caps. Their quick connect water-filling bulbs can top off batteries in under a minute and the system eliminates the need to remove the battery caps every time you want to inspect the battery.
They’re also easy to use; attach the bulb, insert one end into a jug of distilled water, and squeeze until the bulb resists you – the smart system allows you to fill to the correct level and automatically shuts off once the cell has been adequately watered.
These time-saving, convenient and affordable battery watering systems can improve safety and extend battery life – all in a convenient, easy-to-use format. With the system installed, you will no longer have to worry about removing vent covers or brackets so you can reach the battery’s watering caps, keeping you out of contact with battery acid and explosive gasses produced during charging. Plus, the use of a watering system like one of these will extend the life of your RV’s deep cycle battery, diminishing the costs associated with frequent replacements.
Flow-Rite RV Battery Watering Systems at Affordable Prices
Flow-Rite makes RV battery watering systems for a wide range of batteries, including 6V, 8V, 12V, 24V, 48V, and 72V batteries, in addition to distributor snake kits and coupling adapters.
To learn more about the different types of battery watering kits and accessories they produce, visit RV Upgrades at RVUpgradeStore.com, which offers these and countless other RV accessories at great prices. Visit their website via the link above or get in touch with them at 866-332-7881 today.
