12 Volt power is something we all take for granted, as vehicles advance with more and more electronic devices, so does the demand on the battery supply. Charging and maintaining a vehicle battery all depends on the type of usage, for example, if a vehicle is used on a regular basis and the vehicle travels far enough to allow the alternator to recover the charge used when starting, then the system is fairly well self-sustained.
Problems only tend to occur when the balance of charge and demand are upset. This could be down to a number of things.
- A vehicle stood for a long time with no use.
- The battery itself could be faulty.
- Something drawing power when it is switched off.
- Vehicle not charging properly when the engine is running.
Leisure batteries are used on motorhomes, horseboxes, narrow boats and caravans. They are designed to be used in a different way to engine batteries. As mentioned above, an engine battery’s main use is to start the engine, once started the battery is then charged via the alternator. Engine batteries are not designed to be run flat. A leisure battery will spend most of its time being discharged slowly while not being charged. For this type of system, to extend battery life, it is important to know the level of charge and how to maintain the system. If a battery is left to discharge beyond its optimum cut off voltage, the batteries can become irreversibly damaged. Automate supply and fit a number of devices that are designed to protect, charge and manage your batteries.
Automate also offers a diagnostic service, so if your having problems with flat batteries, or would like advice on how to improve the battery management system you already have, give us a call 01522 716954
