How to Check Your RV Battery

Checking your battery involves performing these two tests on a regular basis.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Work Gloves
• Work Gloves
• Hydrometer
• Water
• Baking Soda
• Baking Soda
• Notebook Papers
• Pens
• Voltmeters
• Water
• Pens

The Specific Gravity Test

1. Perform a specific gravity battery test by inserting the syringe from the temperature-adjusted hydrometer and extracting the electrolyte (battery acid).

2. Read the gravity level. Record the result.

3. Return the electrolyte to the battery.

4. Repeat this procedure for each battery cell.

The Open-Circuit Voltage Test

5. Perform an open-circuit voltage test only if the battery has not been charged within the past 24 hours.

6. Remove negative battery cable.

7. Read the voltage across the negative and positive posts with a voltmeter. Record the result.

8. Reconnect the battery cable.

9. Close the hood or compartment storing the battery.

Preparation

10. Access the battery you wish to check.

11. Make sure you are checking the 12-volt DC battery and not something connected to the 120-volt AC power supply. Run checks on all batteries in your vehicle and record the results.

12. Remove battery caps.

Tips & Warnings

• The most common causes of premature battery failure are overcharging, sustained undercharging, sulfation and poor maintenance.
• Electrolyte (battery acid) is corrosive to metal, skin, cloth, and so on. If spilled on skin or squirted into eyes, flush with baking soda and water to neutralize the acid and get immediate medical attention.
• Batteries can give off explosive gases.