Adding a second Battery

[VRob13313]

I am interested in adding a second battery however I heard you should purchase both batteries at the same time. I have a battery that came with the Travel Trailer and it appears to be in excellent condition but it is about a year old. Am I setting myself up for failure if I add a matching 12 volt battery, or should I just wait until this battery dies and then go for the two battery upgrade?

 

[Jbbar]

In the past I have added an additional battery of similar size and make with no issue. It is not the optimal solution but it worked.

 

[donr827]

In the past I have added an additional battery of similar size and make with no issue. It is not the optimal solution but it worked.

X2
Don

 

[Lynn1130]

It might help to have the current battery load tested just to be sure.

 

[mlpeloquin]

One year old I would not worry with the understanding that the life of the set will be a bit shorter do to the age of the original battery.

 

[olcoon]

We had the original battery in our rig replaced in 2010 under warranty. In 2012 I decided I needed a 2nd battery as we were having to run the furnace all night with no electricity. I only bought 1 new one, and haven't had an issue with either one of them. I leave it plugged in at home, and have never had to add any any water to either one of them.

 

[sjandbj]

Having both batteries matching is always the best but i this case there should be no problem. I would add the second battery if it was my rig.

 

[danemayer]

I have seen discussions about the older battery causing charging limitations that affect the newer battery. I think it's a case of get less than optimal results, and maybe a shorter than usual life on the new battery.

I'd advise putting in two brand new identical batteries.

 

[Lynn1130]

Me too, Dan. Since batteries here in Arizona last about 18 months and the dealers are not known to spend much on any added item including batteries I would not trust that it would not cause issues when the second was added.