Did you forget something when you parked your RV for the winter? Where did the RV battery go for the season? It may be winter, but it’s time to check on the battery if it wasn’t properly stored or removed during winterizing.
As a new RV owner, one of the most important aspects of maintaining your vehicle is ensuring the health of your batteries. Protecting them from freezing temperatures is crucial for keeping them in optimal condition and extending their lifespan. Here’s everything you need to know about safeguarding your RV batteries so you can enjoy worry-free adventures on the road.
Will Each Type of RV Battery Freeze in Winter?
Fact: Every battery has a freezing risk, whether it was made for Alberta weather or not.
No two types of RV batteries will react the same way to cold weather, but they still need to be maintained throughout the winter. Before diving into storage and maintenance tips, let’s take a closer look at each type of RV battery and how it will respond to the cold.
- Flooded Lead-Acid (FLA): These batteries are the most common type in RVs. They need regular maintenance, like topping off water levels, and must be stored fully charged. A partially charged FLA battery is more prone to freezing and can suffer internal damage, reducing its lifespan.
- Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM): Although durable, AGM batteries are more resilient to cold than FLA batteries. They have a lower self-discharge rate, meaning they retain their charge longer, but they can still freeze if not fully charged or maintained correctly.
- Lithium: These RV batteries are the top performers in cold weather. Lithium batteries hold their charge exceptionally well and are less likely to freeze. However, they require special care, such as avoiding discharging below -20°C, to maintain their performance and longevity.
Your first step to winter care for your RV is knowing what type of battery powers your RV and how to prepare it for the cold months. Not sure where to start? Our service department at Grove RV can help recommend the best battery for your RV and give you personalized recommendations for caring for your battery throughout the year.
Can I Leave My Batteries in My RV Over Winter?
The short answer? It depends on the type of battery and how you plan to care for it. Most RV batteries should not be left in the vehicle during the winter months. Freezing temperatures can significantly impact battery health, and even the most durable batteries, like lithium models, need regular maintenance.
If you decide to leave your battery in your RV, make sure it’s fully charged and disconnect it to prevent energy drain. However, removing the battery is generally the best option to avoid cold-related damage. For those who can’t remove their batteries, regular check-ins to monitor their condition are a must. Keeping them insulated or using a trickle charger can also help mitigate the effects of freezing weather.
Where to Store Your RV Battery in Winter
Once removed, store your RV batteries in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures. An ideal RV battery winter storage spot is a garage or basement with a steady temperature.
Before storing:
- Charge the battery fully. A partially charged battery is more prone to freezing.
- Check for corrosion. Clean the terminals and connections with a mixture of baking soda and water if necessary.
- Keep it on a charging schedule. Use a battery tender or charger to maintain its charge throughout the winter months. This will prevent the battery from self-discharging and keep it healthy when you’re ready to hit the road.
How to Keep Your RV Battery from Freezing in Winter
A frozen RV battery can crack and become irreparably damaged, leaving you no choice but to replace it. To keep your battery safe and ready for your next camping trip in the summer, consider disconnecting, storing, and scheduling testing throughout the winter.
Disconnect the Battery
Even if you’re storing the battery in your RV, disconnecting it is crucial. This prevents energy drain from appliances or the RV’s internal systems. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Turn off all power sources in your RV.
- Disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive terminal.
- Secure the disconnected cables to prevent accidental contact.
Remove or Replace the Battery
If possible, remove the battery entirely for storage. Doing so reduces exposure to extreme cold and allows you to maintain it in a controlled environment.
For batteries that remain in the RV:
- Insulate the battery compartment. Use insulation material to cut down on cold air exposure.
- Consider a trickle charger. This device helps maintain the battery’s charge and prevents it from freezing.
- Run power through the system. Starting your RV at least once a month can keep the battery active and healthy.
Other Key Tips For Preventing RV Battery Freezing
- Check the charge regularly. A fully charged battery is less likely to freeze. Lead-acid batteries should be kept at 100% charge during storage.
- Avoid discharging at freezing temperatures. Discharging a battery when it’s below -20°C can permanently damage it.
- Monitor sudden temperature drops. If the battery isn’t properly insulated or charged, it can increase the risk of freezing.
If your RV battery does freeze, handle it carefully. Thaw it in a warm area and inspect for cracks or leaks. Any signs of damage mean the battery needs to be replaced. For RV battery replacements, check out our online RV parts store!
Stay Powered Through Winter with Grove RV
Protecting your RV batteries during winter doesn’t just save money—it ensures your RV is ready to roll when adventure calls. At Grove RV, we’re here to help with all your winter RV care needs.
Need advice or a battery replacement? Stop by and let our team assist you. We’ll keep you powered up with a range of quality products and expert tips no matter the season. Visit Grove RV today to winterize your RV with confidence!