frequently asked question

To ensure the optimal functioning of your RV system, first turn off power to all appliances and lights. Then take a multimeter reading from the battery charge in the DC V range to test if it is returning the expected voltage level between 13.6-13.8 volts when not running. If this value is significantly lower than expected, it means the converter is faulty.

Check your converter is charging correctly by inspecting the battery connections and doing a quick voltage check. Using a multimeter set on 12V DC, measure each of your batteries when not connected to shore power, their reading should be below 12.6 volts.

Yes, in a healthy battery, ions flow freely between the cathode and anode. Batteries degrade even when you don't use them. A fully charged lithium-ion battery will lose about 20% of its capacity after a year of normal storage.

The most straightforward way: take a battery, charge it, measure its open circuit voltage (OCV), and let it sit without any connections. Going back to the battery later, you will notice that the battery has a lower OCV, indicating that the battery is in a lower state of charge (SoC). This SOC difference is the battery self-discharge rate.

Typical Ni/Cd and Ni/MH batteries have a self-discharge rate of up to 25% per month. So NiCd batteries usually need to be charged before they can be used in the field, because lead-acid and NiCd batteries lose their charge very quickly.

Batteries generate electricity through chemical reactions inside the battery, which means that the battery's capacity gradually decreases over time. This phenomenon is called self-discharge. Battery self-discharge cannot be completely avoided.

A short circuit can cause excessive current draw and drain the battery. Check the charging system for loose or worn alternator belts, electrical faults (loose, disconnected, or disconnected wires), or alternator failure.

Of course, LiFePO4 battery is currently the safest lithium battery, non-flammable and non-explosive. This is something other lithium batteries cannot do. Secondly, it is also better than lithium-ion batteries in terms of cycle life and environmental protection. Read “Lifepo4 battery vs Lithium ion”.

Harveypower lifepo4 batteries live up to 6000 cycles at 90% depth of discharge, without decreasing in performance.

The Lifepo4 battery has unlimited charging times a day and has no memory effect. It can be replenished immediately when the battery is used below 30%. However, lead-acid batteries have small capacity and high self-discharge. In the case of daily use, it is best to charge them once a day to avoid excessive discharge.

When the battery is not in use, the monthly self-discharge is about 3%, and a battery with 80% power can be stored for more than one year. (Please do not store it fully charged, and be careful not to over-discharge to 0%).