Camping is really good aside from having a bond with family or friends. You tend to see the other campers and of course, if you’re a newbie then you opt to explore and talk with them regarding their camping experiences. One thing that I observed about it is that some campers and RVs have their batteries vent and some aren’t. Just so you know, batteries are one of the most important pieces of any Recreational Vehicle because, without it, you won’t be able to have a source of power. So out of curiosity, I’ve decided to ask among them to know their particular reason for now installing a battery box vent and I found this out.
They say that it is highly recommended to have a sort of vent whether it is an open vent or a tube on the side of your camper or RV. Recreational camping vehicles also have battery box vent.
Tip: Check your batteries to see what you already have. In addition, you need to consider what your needs are before purchasing a new one if you’re having some plans on getting one. Consider and list down the prices and its features.
Types of RV Batteries
You have to understand your RV batteries first before you go on to the box vent. RV has two kinds of batteries: one to start the engine and two for the applications, examples are the battery that runs the light and water needs while the vehicle is turned off. You may also want to purchase a dual-purpose type of battery which combines deep cycle and starting applications into one. But let me remind you that dual purpose type of battery doesn’t last long for deep cycle use, so it will just be a waste of money as it won’t be suited for your needs.
Why do I need to use Battery Box Vent?
Battery box vents can help you prevent battery overheating, extending the life of any batteries, and help prevents battery leaks. It is also needed for your own safety.
A battery box vented is unique because of its system of ventilation , as well as its ability to be installed in an indoor environment.
What are the Types of Battery Vents?
Battery Box Opening
Battery box opening is the simplest type of battery vents. These are commonly found on trailers on the frame near the hitch in the front. There’s no need to worry about the vapors since the vent is already outside which the vapors can be taken away by the outside wind.
Tip: in finding the ventilation holes, make sure that the lid is on the battery box. Run your finger around the lip of the lid to feel the gaps. There will be one or two gaps between the cover and the body of the battery box.
Pros of Battery Box Opening
Battery being accessible and effortless to take out, replaces, or recharge without any hassle. There’s no risk of vapors entering your camper. It doesn’t take any space inside the trailer which leaves more space and room for storage.
Cons of Battery Box Opening
May lose some power or battery life due to the cold during winter. A rainstorm can also affect the battery life because it may push some water to the battery box. It may also get a steal by some lurking theft because it is placed on the exterior of the camper.
Louvered Side Vent
It is found very common in RVs and looks like a vent on the outside of camping vehicle. These vents can be found on the outside wall of wherever your batteries are stored. You can access this from a small door, small cabinet, or from outside.
Pros of Louvered Side Vent
The batteries are more protected from the outside elements that also allow them to work better during the cold or rainy season. Louvered side vent also gives a good amount of airflow that makes the battery compartment cool and vapor- free. This design also keeps out small animals and leaves, making it perfect for the outdoors.
Cons of Louvered Side Vent
Since they are stored inside the vehicle, you are in risk of inhaling battery acid vapors. So it is important to install the vent properly to avoid this risk.
- Battery box louver
- Directs battery box fumes outside the RV for safety
- Outside Diameter: 4-1/4 x 4-1/4
- Color: Black
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Powered Vent
This type of vent is similar to Louvered Side Vent but it has a small powered fan and heat sensor. Making it like it has an automatic thermostat.
Tip: you will need electricity for the fan as it can quickly remove warm air vapor from your camper; keeping the inside of your camper cools without letting the warm air from the battery.
Battery Vent Tube
This type of vent can be installed on any battery without modifications. It can take up the least space and the easiest and most common for small campervan. This vent should be used if your trailer contains only one battery.
How to: Locate the small hole on your battery and attach the tube to it. Drill a small hole on the outside of your trailer and run the tube to the hole and seal it in place.
Tip: seal a small l-shaped pipe to keep the rain and dust from getting inside.
What is best for my camper?
Everything depends on your trailer or your RV together with the batteries that you got. You have to look around and list down so you may know what type of vent that you needed to use.
Maintenance
It is mandatory to have maintenance to keep the vent clear and open that is needed to ensure the needed airflow.
Tip: refer to your manual about the instruction on how to clean the battery vent properly.
To make sure that the air can pass through, use a pipe cleaner to clean the battery box vent on a trailer or your RV.
For the vent tube, disconnect the tube from the battery and wait for the fumes to disappear for about 20-30 minutes, and blow to the end to clear the debris on the tube. (Don’t use a pipe cleaner to clean it as it may cause damage.)
