Genuine VW California leisure batteries are built to support all the sophisticated equipment in your campervan. A VW battery is a combination of performance, durability, and power.
A VW California leisure battery is designed to provide a steady amount of power over a long period of time to power features in your caravan like the lights, kettle, TV, oven, and more. A leisure battery can also serve as a reservoir that can cope with the peaks and troughs of the caravan’s power use.
A car battery differs from a leisure battery in one important respect. Car batteries are specially designed to provide the burst of power needed to get the engine to start.
The main purpose of leisure batteries, however, is to provide your motorhome with a constant energy supply by releasing a lower level of power over a prolonged period of time. This design makes it effective at supporting the power demands of appliances over the long term, allowing the vehicle to become a comfortable living space.
Because of these differences, car batteries and leisure batteries have different constructions. A leisure battery, for instance, has thicker plates to withstand the prolonged use of power.
But like all batteries, even the best on the market will need replacement eventually. There are many factors that can affect the life term of a leisure battery, such as extremes of temperature, corrosion, power drain, or simply the passage of time.
So, if you need a VW California leisure battery replacement, there are several different factors to be taken into consideration when evaluating your options to make sure that you’re getting the best product for your vehicle. Some areas to consider include the battery brand, any warranty period, and your budget.
One of the most important factors to consider is the type of leisure battery to buy for your VW California, as there are several options to choose from. Each battery type is different and has its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Wet-Cell Batteries
- Gel Batteries
- AGM Batteries
The vast majority of leisure batteries for a VW California are of the wet-cell or “flooded” variant. They are easily the most common type available on the market, and because they operate using relatively simple technology, you can expect them to be the most affordable option too.
Because these leisure batteries are not very technologically advanced, though, you shouldn’t expect them to perform as well or last as long as some of the newer types.
However, if you’re on a budget and don’t mind this trade-off, then these leisure batteries are a perfectly serviceable choice.
This type of VW batterya> uses a silica gel to thicken the electrolyte fluid inside. What this does is prevent any liquid spills, as well as provide some extra resistance against vibration of the battery.
Gel variants have a high VW California leisure battery capacity, allowing you to continue using power until the battery is below 20% charge. This makes them great for long camping trips, but bear in mind that they do come at a higher price as well.
Absorbent glass mat or AGM leisure batteries are more technologically advanced units and are recommended if want to get the best performance possible out of your motorhome and its facilities.
They are durable, longer-lasting, corrosion-resistant, leak-proof, and 100% maintenance-free. Of course, all these advantages come at a price. If you favour this type of battery, you can expect to pay more for it than for other types.
In the market for a high-quality leisure battery for your VW California? Browse our selection at Orius Batteries today! Our first-class product range gives you the choice you need to guarantee that your motorhome will stay comfortable for longer.
For enquiries, feel free to call us on 01772 348317.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much does the VW California cost?
The price for a VW California starts at £34,000, although higher spec versions will cost more than this.
Does VW California have a toilet?
Yes. Volkswagen takes pride in its innovative design, which features a separate wet area. The compartment holds a shower, a toilet, and a sink. From the bathroom facilities to the engine, the VW California provides a reliable driving experience and a comfortable living space.
How long does a VW car battery last?
Generally, a standard VW California leisure battery will last for two to three years. If you properly maintain your battery, though, it can last even longer.
How do you charge a campervan battery?
Leisure batteries are motorhome multifunction batteries that are normally charged by voltage supplies built to run a 12V motorhome, so should not be charged with typical battery chargers.
Although using a standard vehicle battery charger may increase the power in your Volkswagen caravan battery in the short term, it is also likely to cause damage to it.
Most campervans offer two ways to charge the battery: via the engine-driven alternator when the vehicle is in motion, and from the on-board central charger when on hook-up.
How does a leisure battery work?
A Volkswagen multipurpose battery is the power source for the 12V equipment and appliances in a motorhome or caravan. It works by providing low levels of power over a prolonged period of time to support appliances such as the TV, oven, kettle, and the lights, among other features.
How To Install A Leisure Battery On Campervan
First, simply put the battery into position and screw it into place. After that, you just need to make sure the connections are in place.
Locate the positive and the negative terminals on your leisure battery. The negative cable should be secured to the earthing point and connected to the corresponding negative terminal of the leisure battery.
The positive cable should then be attached to the positive terminal from the split charge relay. A fuse is also installed on either side of the terminals.
From the relay, a smaller negative cable should be connected to the corresponding negative terminal. Once that’s done, the split circuit should be fully operational.
How To Safely Handle A Leisure Battery
Because vehicle batteries are flammable and contain corrosive acid, you must always take note of the safety precautions when handling them.
- Always wear safety gear like goggles and gloves.
- Only use durable, high-quality clamps to connect the battery. We strongly advise against using crocodile clips for this purpose. Good clamps eliminate the risk of sparks and fire from occurring.
Make sure that your battery is properly mounted at all times. Also, ensure that the gas escape vent is always fitted properly.
Guide To Replacing Your VW California Leisure Battery
When replacing a new leisure battery, there are certain factors that you may want to consider.
For some, brand name matters; and it’s true to say that buying reputable brands tends to ensure that your batteries will last longer and perform well over time.
You may also want to consider the warranty. A longer warranty period is often the better choice.
Lastly, you should check the battery’s manufacturing date. Generally, look for a battery that is within three months of its manufacturing date to guarantee freshness, as even the best batteries deteriorate when sat on a shelf for long periods.
At Orius Batteries’ online store, we have you covered in all these aspects. All the products we sell are made by the most trusted brands in the industry. What’s more, they’re all guaranteed fresh and come with a lifetime warranty.
Whatever VW California leisure battery size or type you are looking for, we’re sure to have what you need!