Leisure Batteries

Leisure Battery FAQs 

What is a leisure battery?

A leisure battery is a deep-cycle battery designed to provide a steady, low current of power over a prolonged period, ideal for running appliances in caravans, motorhomes, and boats. Unlike car batteries that deliver short bursts of high power for starting engines, leisure batteries can withstand repeated deep discharges without damage, making them essential for powering lights, TVs, refrigerators, and other onboard equipment when you’re not connected to mains electricity.

What size leisure battery do I need?

The required size (capacity measured in Amp-hours – Ah) depends on your power consumption needs and how long you need to be self-sufficient without recharging. Calculate the total power (in Watts) of all the appliances you’ll be using and the duration of their use to estimate your daily Amp-hour consumption. Factor in the number of days you plan to be off-grid. Remember that for lead-acid batteries, you should generally only use about 50% of their capacity to prolong their life.   

Do I need a deep cycle leisure battery?

You most likely do need a deep-cycle leisure battery if you plan to power appliances in your caravan, motorhome, boat, or off-grid setup for any length of time without being connected to mains electricity.

How do I charge my leisure battery?

Leisure batteries can be charged in several ways: through the vehicle’s alternator while driving (for motorhomes), via a mains hook-up at a campsite using an onboard or external charger, or with solar panels. It’s important to use a charger that is compatible with your battery type and to charge it correctly to avoid overcharging or undercharging, which can damage the battery and shorten its lifespan. Slow, steady charges are generally better for lead-acid batteries than rapid charging.