AGM Batteries Are Not Holding a Charge

Confirmed Issue:

The AGM batteries appear to be losing voltage more rapidly than they have previously.  The GoPower monitor beeps, displays an error message, and shuts off. 

Affected Units:

Any Vandoit van with a AGM Battery system

Issue Explanation:

AGM batteries should have a life of up to 5 years, depending on usage.

Questions to consider: Since having your van, have you replaced your batteries?  

If so, about how old are your current batteries?

Resolution: 

1. Make sure you do not have any electronics currently on that you're not aware of. Fans, coolers, lights,

and hot water heaters are commonly forgotten about when exiting the van and can run the charge

down prematurely. Turn off the inverter if you're not planning on using any devices plugged into AC wall

outlets.

2.  Check the cables on all three of the batteries to ensure they are securely seated on the terminals.

3.  If any of the cables are loose/not securely seated, reseat them on the terminals.

Warning: The cables and batteries will have live electricity.  Do not touch metal to metal.

4.  After reseating the battery cables on the terminals, check the voltage on your GoPower monitor. If your usage doesn't improve, or if the voltage continues to drop rapidly, proceed to step 5.

Note: A healthy, fully charged battery will sit close to 12.8 Volts with no load on it. 

5.  Next, you will need to test the batteries to determine their current health.  To do this, you will need to remove them and take them to a local Batteries Plus, auto parts store, or other location that can test batteries.

6.  Make sure the van is unplugged from shore power and the vehicle is not currently running. Remove the battery cables from the terminals using a 4mm allen wrench. Wrap the longer red positive battery terminal in electrical tape or put a cap over the end so it does not touch any metal while it is detached.  Removing the batteries themselves may take 2 people, as they are rather heavy (about 66 lbs). 

7.  If your batteries test to be in good condition, it's likely too many accessories were turned on or your charging systems should be checked to make sure they're working fully. 

If the steps above do not provide the resolution you are seeking, please contact the Customer Support team by creating a ticket in the Customer Support portal or by emailing support@vandoit.com.

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