Your Ultimate Guide to Leisure Batteries
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, camper, or caravan/motorhome owner, you’re likely familiar with leisure batteries. These are especially essential if you are looking to go off-grid, they provide electricity for everything from lighting and appliances to navigation systems and entertainment devices. This guide will cover everything you need to know about leisure batteries to ensure you choose the right one for your needs.
What is a Leisure Battery
A leisure battery, also known as a deep cycle battery, is a type of rechargeable battery designed to provide a steady amount of power over an extended period. Unlike car batteries, which deliver short bursts of high-energy output to start an engine, leisure batteries are built to provide a consistent level of power over a longer duration. This makes them ideal for powering appliances and equipment off-grid for caravans, motorhomes, boats and camping setups.
Leisure Battery Applications and Uses
Leisure batteries are versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications such as;Â
Caravans and Motorhomes: Leisure batteries are the primary power source for lighting, heating, fridges, and entertainment systems in caravans and motorhomes.
Boats and Yachts: Boat owners will rely on leisure batteries to power any onboard electronics, navigation systems, lighting and winches.
Camping: Portable power packs, which are often equipped with leisure batteries can provide electricity for camping stoves, lights, phones, and any other gadget.
Outdoor Sports Enthusiasts: Going fishing on a remote lake? Leisure batteries can power portable TVs, coolers, and speakers.
DIY Enthusiasts: Leisure batteries are also often used in DIY projects, such as building off-grid solar power systems.
Types of Leisure Batteries
There are many different types of leisure battery technologies to choose from such as lead acid, AGM, Gel, Lead Crystal and Lithium.
A brief overview of leisure battery technologies:
Lead Acid: These are affordable, easy to maintain and simple to install. Lead-acid leisure batteries are a popular choice however they are a lot heavier than some of the other options.
AGM: AGM batteries are good at handling vehicle vibrations, they are leak-proof and can be mounted sideways for installation flexibility. These are often a more expensive option and may have a shorter lifespan compared to other leisure battery technologies.
Gel: Gel batteries are maintenance-free and leak-proof, making them a very convenient choice. However, they are more expensive and may not perform well under discharge or recharge conditions.
Lead Crystal: These have a longer lifespan, are durable and can function in extreme temperatures. However, again they are slightly costly.
Lithium: Lithium offers twice the energy density and is half the weight of lead-acid batteries, making them a popular choice for those looking for a lightweight and long-lasting power source. Despite their advantages, again they do come with a higher price tag.
At BBL Batteries, we offer an extensive range of leisure batteries to cater to various needs and preferences. Our team of experts is ready to discuss your leisure battery needs and can recommend the best one to suit you.
Leisure Battery Maintenance and Care Tips
Proper maintenance is essential to prolonging the life of your leisure battery. Here are some of our tips to keep your battery in good shape:
- Regularly inspect the battery terminals for any corrosion and ensure that they are tightly connected and the casing for any signs of damage or leakage.
- Avoid letting the battery sit unused for an extended period without charging, you should regularly charge it to maintain optimal performance.
- Store your battery in a cool, dry place when not in use and avoid exposing it to any extreme temperatures as this can affect the battery’s performance.
- If your leisure battery is a flooded lead-acid battery then you should perform an equalisation charge periodically to ensure all cells receive a full charge and prevent sulfation.
- Ensure you follow the care and safety precautions that the manufacturer recommends.
At BBL Batteries, we understand the importance of maintaining your leisure battery. That’s why we offer free battery testing. Simply bring your battery to your nearest branch, and we’ll happily conduct the test free of charge. Should it need replacing, we’ll help you in selecting the right one while we recycle your old one. And if your battery is in good shape, we’ll let you know.
How and when to change your leisure battery
Knowing when and how to change your leisure battery is important to ensure an uninterrupted power supply in your leisure vehicle.
When to change your leisure battery?
There are several signs that you may need to change your leisure battery.
Age: Consider the age of your leisure battery, with age its performance will decline and it becomes less reliable. If your battery is reaching the end of its typical lifespan (usually 3 to 7 years, depending on how you maintain it and the type of battery), it may be time to consider a replacement, even if it’s still functioning.
Reduced Capacity: If you notice that your battery is struggling to hold charge or isn’t providing sufficient power anymore for your needs, this may be a sign of reduced capacity. This can occur as a battery age or if it has been subjected to deep discharges or other damage.
Physical Damage: Any visible damage to the battery casing, terminals, or cables, such as cracks, or corrosion indicates potential issues that may affect performance and safety. In this case, it’s advisable to replace the battery to prevent further damage or safety hazards.
Frequent Maintenance Issues: If your battery requires frequent maintenance or repairs despite proper care, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new battery rather than continuing to address ongoing issues.
At BBL Batteries, we offer a free battery test at any of our local branches so if you’re unsure as to whether it’s time to update your leisure battery our experts can test and check the battery and advise you on the next steps.
How to change your leisure battery:
Firstly, ensure you have selected the right replacement, choosing one that matches or exceeds the specifications of your current battery in terms of voltage, capacity, and size. Speak to our experts if you are unsure about which battery to go for we can also change the battery for you, however, if you are looking to change your leisure battery yourself here are our tips on how to go about this.
- Ensure you are wearing the appropriate protective gear.
- Disconnect the old battery: Start by disconnecting the negative (black) cable followed by the positive (red) cable from the old battery terminals. Use a wrench or socket to loosen the terminal clamps and remove them from the battery posts.
- Remove the old battery: Carefully lift the old battery out of its compartment, taking care not to tip it over or spill any electrolyte. Dispose of the old battery properly according to local regulations or return it to a recycling centre.
- Installing the new battery: Place the new battery into the battery compartment, ensuring it’s positioned securely and the terminal aligns with the cable connections. Reattach the terminal clamps, starting with the positive (red) cable followed by the negative (black) cable, and tighten them securely.
- Test the battery: Once you have the new battery installed, you need to test its functionality by powering up your system and checking for proper operation. Monitor the battery’s performance over time to ensure it meets your power needs effectively.
By being able to recognise the signs of battery deterioration you can ensure that you are never without power.
Leisure Battery Chargers
To keep your leisure battery in good condition you’ll need a reliable charger, there are several types of chargers available, including, conventional chargers, smart chargers and solar chargers.
Conventional Chargers plug into a standard power outlet and will deliver a steady charge to your battery over several hours.
Smart Chargers are devices that monitor your battery’s condition and will adjust the charging process accordingly, these will prevent overcharging and extend the battery life.
Solar chargers are ideal for those going off-grid, they use the sunlight to recharge leisure batteries, making them perfect for camping, boating, and other outdoor activities.
Leisure Battery Commonly Asked Questions
Do leisure batteries need maintenance?
Yes, leisure batteries require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. By following our maintenance tips you can keep your battery in top condition for years to come.
How long do leisure batteries last?
This varies depending on factors such as the battery type, usage patterns if you properly maintain your battery and the environment in which you keep your battery. Typically lifespans range from 3 to 7 years but this is very dependent on how you use it and how well you maintain them.
What is the difference between a leisure battery and a normal battery?
Leisure batteries and normal batteries serve different purposes. While leisure batteries are designed to provide sustained power for off-grid leisure activities, normal batteries are generally tailored for starting vehicle engines and shallow cycling.
What are the different leisure battery sizes?
Leisure batteries come in various sizes that can accommodate different types of leisure vehicles and applications. The size of the battery you need will be determined by your power requirements, the available space in your vehicle’s battery compartment and the weight capacity of your vehicle.
It is essential to choose a battery technology and size that will provide sufficient capacity to meet your power needs without overloading your vehicle or compromising performance.
BBL Batteries Quality Assurance
When it comes to leisure batteries, quality and reliability are important. At BBL Batteries we only offer a range of high-quality leisure batteries that are designed to meet the demands of off-grid living and outdoor adventures. BBL Batteries is your trusted partner for all your battery needs.
