Flat battery

NannyBabs
NannyBabs Forum Participant Posts: 1
edited January 2017 in Caravan & Motorhome Chat #1

2003 Swift Sundance 520L

I have had a problem with my starter battery for the first time this winter so I bought a new one but the problem still persists. 

In the latest episode, I recharged the battery, made sure nothing electrical was switched on and put ECU on with just a 120watt heater going to protect from the cold. I left it a few days and then started up the engine, she started first time. A week later the battery is flat. 

I don't have an alarm system. The only thing that is possibly connected to the battery is the electric step.

Can anyone explain what's going on.

Comments

  • Doug n San
    Doug n San Forum Participant Posts: 92
    edited January 2017 #2

    Are you sure that its a flat battery and not dirty/corroded or loose on the terminals?

    Have you measured the voltage at the terminal posts?

    If the battery is a wet cell type have you checked the electrolyte?

     

  • ChrisBogg
    ChrisBogg Forum Participant Posts: 3
    edited January 2017 #3

    You mention starter battery, but using a heater would use the leisure battery surely?

    Not sure about you model but would leaving the van on EHU (if possible) charge both batteries?

  • IanH
    IanH Forum Participant Posts: 4,708
    1000 Comments
    edited January 2017 #4

    Our caravan has a black switch on the electrical panel / trip switch box (or whatever it's called). Our engineer said that this is a relay and must be left in tbe central position (not 'car' or 'van') otherwise it drains the battery.

  • Wreaker
    Wreaker Forum Participant Posts: 16
    edited January 2017 #5

    When I first got my present motor home the engine battery would drain within 2 weeks parked on the drive.  Found that engine battery is not charged when plugged into mains like my previous van. I fitted a small solar charger on the front of the dash,  (£9 on ebay) permanently wired to the engine battery, and this trickle charge is enough to cover normal drain, of alarm, electric door locks, cab light etc. when in and out of the van.

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