Alto F2114 - General Equipment Maintenance

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Battery Freezing Points
Percentage Charge Specific Gravity Freezing Point (°F/°C)
100 1,265 –59
o
C –75
o
F
76 1,225 –37
o
C –35
o
F
74 1,200 –27
o
C –17
o
F
50 1,150 –15
o
C 5
o
F
0 1,100 –8
o
C 18
o
F
<0 1,050 –3
o
C 27
o
F
During the winter or when your trailer is stored for a long period, the battery should be removed
from the trailer. To properly store your battery:
• Remove battery from battery box.
• Clean the battery case and terminals with baking soda and water.
• Check the water level and add water if needed.
• Test your battery with a hydrometer and/or a voltmeter to ensure the battery is fully
charged.
• If needed, charge your battery. Batteries stored in a discharged state are susceptible to
freezing, sulfation and an increased rate of discharge. A fully charged battery will not
freeze unless the temperature reaches approximately -75 °F (-59 °C). But if discharged, it
can freeze at 27 °F (-3 °C).
• Store your battery in a dry, cool, well-ventilated area and out of the reach of children and
pets.
• Check the water level and state of charge every 45-60 days or every 30 days, if the battery
is two years old or more. If needed, add distilled water and charge.
For battery service or replacement, go to any service station or dealer who sells and services the
type of deep-cycle battery installed in your trailer.
The battery is the heart of your electrical system.
Use
The deep-cycle battery, also known as a marine battery, provides energy for all the equipment in
your trailer. When plugged into a power source, it will recharge automatically. If you are camping
without services, however, it is important to measure your electrical consumption. Use only one
light at a time, and turn off the light when it is no longer needed. Turn off inverter (if trailer is so
equipped) once you are no longer using it. This will maximize the endurance of the battery.
Recharge
When planning to camp with no external power source, it is important to leave with a fully
charged battery. There are three ways to recharge the battery: either by plugging the ALTO, or
through the connection to the tow vehicle, or with the solar panel(s). The fastest method is to
plug the trailer 12 to 24 hours before departure. It is slower to recharge the battery while driving.