
Your RV has two electrical systems on which it runs: 12 volts and 120 volts. Reserve Capacity or RC refers to the number of minutes that a battery can deliver 25 amps at 80 degrees Fahrenheit. For example, a battery that is rated 5 amps for 30 hours means it can deliver 5 amps x 30 hours, which is equal to 150 amp-hours before it is discharged. Amp Hours refers to the amount of current in amperes your battery can deliver for a number of hours. Deep cycle batteries are rated in Amp Hours and their Reserve Capacity. Your deep cycle battery, also called as your RV’s house battery, supplies 12 volts to your recreational vehicle. Deep cycle batteries are designed with thicker plates to allow deep discharging and recharging over and over. Doing the same with a regular car battery can ruin it.

It can discharge deeply and is designed to be recharged often. When used properly and mindfully, your chassis battery can last you for years.Ī Deep Cycle Battery, unlike your chassis battery, is designed to produce a steady current over long periods. Once the engine is up and running, the vehicle’s alternator gives all the power that it needs. You should not use a chassis battery or starting battery as your deep cycle battery. The Chassis battery is rated in Cold Cranking Amps (CCA), which refers to the current in amperes the battery can deliver at 0 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 seconds.

They have thin plates which are exposed to the electrolyte. Starting batteries provide the engine the large current it needs to start. The Chassis Battery or Starting Battery is the battery required to start your RV’s engine. The two have very different uses, so it is important not to confuse one with the other. There are two types of batteries that you will need for your recreational vehicle. × Thank you for subscribing to the Camper Smarts newsletter, keep your eye on your inbox for updates.
