Image courtesy of Jcomp @ Freepik.com
Unfortunately, many new RV owners don't consider the possibility of waking up to a dead battery. But believe me, it will happen to you sooner or later, especially if you're traveling with kids or other people who like to leave lights on.
And if you've ever found yourself with a dead RV battery, then you know precisely what we're here to talk about.
Let's paint a picture... You've been planning a family RV trip for months. You've bought all your supplies and packed them securely. You've meticulously inspected the RV, both inside and out, to ensure it's ready for the road. You've filled it up with gas, checked the oil, and topped up the wiper fluid...
Then the morning comes to leave. You load the family in, sit yourself down in the driver's seat, turn the key, and... CLICK!
Nothing happens. So you give it a minute, letting yourself collect your thoughts before getting upset, try again, and then... That haunting CLICK again!
Dead RV batteries happen, and they can ruin your family's vacation real quick.
Now, if you're a well-traveled and savvy RV owner, you probably already have a jump starter packed into your rig for occasions just like this. But if you don't, this guide is for you!
We've put together the following guide on jump starters, why every RV owner needs one, and how to shop and select the best jump starter for your rig.
What Is A Jump Starter And How Does It Work?
A jump starter is a portable, battery-powered device that provides a short surge of power to boost or "jump" a vehicle's dead battery. They come in various sizes and configurations. However, they're typically small modules with either built-in cables or battery terminals that you can connect to a dead battery with a pair of jumper cables.
You may hear different names for jump starters, such as booster packs, power packs, or jump boxes. But they're all the same thing: a portable device used to get you out of a fix when you find yourself with a dead car or RV battery.
On the other hand, one thing people often get confused is the difference between a jump starter and a battery charger. Which I should remind you are two completely different tools you should have in your Tool Trooper arsenal.
Who Should Own a Jump Starter?
If you or anyone in your household drives a vehicle, whether it's a car, diesel truck, motorcycle, full-size Class A recreational vehicle or motorhome... You should own a jump starter.
Jump starters are incredibly helpful to have when you find yourself without enough power to turn an engine over. So, if you live in a colder climate, a rural area, or frequently travel long distances or to remote locations, it's not just a good idea to have a jump starter on hand; it's a must.
A jump starter can make all the difference in the world between a dead battery taking no more than a few minutes to boost and being stranded in the middle of nowhere, praying to God you can find enough cell signal to call CAA.
So to sum it up, you should own a jump starter if you:
- Travel in an RV, motorhome, or camper
- Travel long distances by vehicle
- Plan on visiting remote destinations
- Live in a colder climate or rural area
- Have teen drivers who use your vehicles (who you don't want calling you at 2am when they accidentally kill your car battery)
- Care about having all the right tools on hand
Types of Jump Starters (And What They're Best For)
There are many brands, makes, and models of jump starters out there. But there are mainly two types: Lithium-ion jump starters and lead-acid jump starters.
Now, both types can boost your RV, car, truck, or motorcycle battery. So, which one you choose depends more on cost, size, and power output than anything else.
Let's take a look at these two types of jump starters to see what sets them apart.
What Is A Lithium-Ion Jump Starter?
Lithium-ion jump starters are generally smaller, lighter, and provide a stronger, more reliable power output for use in emergency situations. They can often hold a charge for months at a time, or even longer, and have higher peak amp outputs despite being smaller in size. Plus, because they're more compact, they're ideal for storing in smaller RVs or cars.
On the other hand, lithium-ion jump starters are usually more expensive. They're also not great for jumping dead batteries in extreme cold weather. Just like your cellphone's battery, a lithium-ion jump starter loses its charge much faster in sub-zero temperatures.
What Is A Lead-Acid Jump Starter?
Lead-acid jump starters are bulkier and just older technology. They're a jump starter with a built-in car battery, which means they're pretty heavy.
However, they can be more reliable in cold weather or when used in shops where you might need to charge multiple dead batteries throughout the day. And because they're an older type of jump starter, they're cheaper to buy than most lithium-ion jump starters.
But they're outdated. So yes, they may be cheaper and more reliable in colder climates. However, that comes at the cost of lower peak amp outputs and a device that is harder to move around or store, as they're just as heavy (if not heavier) than a 12V battery.
Image courtesy of senivpetro @ Freepik.com
Which Is The Better Choice? A Lithium-Ion Or Lead-Acid Jump Starter?
Lithium-ion jump starters are generally the better option. They may be more expensive. But you'll get a higher amperage output (despite their smaller and more portable size), faster charging, and a device that's easier to carry around or store when not in use. However, suppose you're buying a jump starter for use in a busy shop or for use in colder temperatures. In that case, a lead-acid jump starter may be the better choice.
Shopping for a jump starter? Another interesting choice when looking for a jump starter is whether or not to buy one with a built-in air compressor. Combo units may seem convenient. But they come with a few flaws that we've discussed in our blog on Jump Starters with Air Compressors: Worth It or Overkill?
How to Choose the Right Jump Starter For Your RV
You can buy a lead-acid jump starter if you need it for colder starts or for shop use. However, we strongly recommend considering a lithium-ion jump starter instead, due to its superior performance and reliability.
Either way, the most significant factor to consider when shopping for a jump starter is the amperage output.
Cranking Amps (CA) Vs. Peak Amps (PA) - What's The Difference?
You'll usually see jump starters rated in terms of peak amps or cranking amp outputs. But it's peak amps that are the more important number to pay attention to because this number measures the jump starter's peak output capabilities. It's basically the maximum amount of amps the device is can pump out.
In contrast, cranking amps refers to the sustained amperage a jump starter outputs for approximately 30 seconds. So both of these ratings are important. But it's the peak amps that will determine if the jump starter is strong enough to boost your vehicle's battery.
How To Choose The Right Size Jump Starter For Your RV
For smaller vehicles, like motorcycles, cars, or ATVs, you won't need all that much power output. That's because these vehicles have smaller engines that don't require a lot of power to start. But for larger vehicles, such as Class A motorhome or heavy equipment, you'll want a jump starter rated for much higher peak amp ratings.
Here's a quick reference chart to help you find the right jump starter for your vehicle.
If you're unsure about what size jump starter you need, you can always refer to your RV's owner manual. But generally, the higher the peak amps, the less likely you are to run into issues.
Finally, it's also important to note that you should never use a 12V jump starter on a smaller battery. The voltage will be too high and it can damage the batter.
Wondering how many amps do you really need in a jump starter? Check out our featured blog post to find out!
Jump Starter Features That Matter For RV Owners
Once you've determined the PA output you'll need, the next step is to consider additional features that might come in handy. So let's take a look at some other features you'll find on RV jumper starters.
Compact size and portability
Most newer lithium-ion jump starters are compact and lightweight. But be sure to check the size and weight of a jump starter before purchasing it, and consider where you plan to store it when not in use. Obviously, jump starters with higher PA outputs will be slightly larger and bulkier. But you may be able to find smaller lithium-ion jump starters compact enough to store in your glove box.
Heavy-duty Vs. Light Duty Jump Starters
Light-duty jump starters are fine for cars, motorcycles, and ATVs. However, if you plan to use your jump starter for a larger RV or heavy equipment, ensure to look for a model specifically designed for heavy-duty use. Again, this is why it's essential to consider the peak amp output of a jump starter before making a choice.
Air compressors
Finding a jump starter with a built-in air compressors is great, especially if you plan on taking your it with you on the road. However, one problem we've often seen with these types of jump starters is that they can sometimes overheat from running the air compressor, which can damage the battery. That's why most high-quality jump starters don't have air compressor features.
Reverse polarity detection
Some jump starters have an indicator that let's you know when you've connected the device's cables properly. Typically, it's just a green light that indicates when it's safe to start the vehicle, preventing you from accidentally connecting the jump starter improperly. It also reduces the risk of damage to your RV or battery.
USB ports or power banks
Some units will have USB ports or power outlets that allow you to charge other types of devices, not just a dead RV battery. These jump starters are great to have in an RV, especially when traveling to remote or isolated destinations. Your phone died, and you lost your charger 1,000 miles ago? No problem! It's a good thing you bought a jump starter with a built-in power bank!
Flashlights
Another incredibly handy features to keep in mind is a built-in flashlight. This is extra handy in case your RV battery dies in the middle of the night. After all, you don't want to be fumbling in the dark trying to connect your cables in the proper order. Look for a jump starter with a built-in flashlight and you'll never need to worry about boosting a battery in the dark.
Want a look at some of the best models to choose from? Check out our guide on the Best Jump Starters currently on the market!
How to Use a Jump Starter To Boost An RV
Now, we'd love to say that using a jump starter is fool-proof. However, there is a right and wrong way to utilize these powerful devices. So here's a quick overview of how to use a jump starter safely.
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First, ensure your jump starter is charged and turned off. You should also double-check that your RV's ignition is off.
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Next connect the jump starter cables to your dead RV battery. It's important to connect the cables in the right order. First connect the red cable, then the black cable, which helps prevent sparking.
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Now turn the device on. Some jump starters have a small screen or indicator light that will let you know if you do (or don't) have a proper connection.
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Then turn on the RV's ignition and crank the engine. As long as your problem was actually a dead battery, the vehicle should start without any issues.
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Let it run for just a minute and then disconnect the device from your battery terminals, and you're done!
Want a better look at how to jump start your vehicle? You can also check out our dedicated blog post on how to use a portable jump starter, with step-by-step instructions and safety tips.
As an additional step, you may want to test your battery and consider replacing it if necessary. There are a few different things to check to see if a battery needs to be replaced.
You'll first want to perform a visual inspection, checking for signs of rust, corrosion, or physical damage like cracks, swelling or leaks.
Secondly, you can test the battery's resting voltage with a multimeter. For this, you'll need to let the battery rest for about 15 minutes after shutting off your engine. Then connect your multimeter to each of the battery's terminals. If the battery is charged and in good working order, it should give you a reading of about 12.4V to 12.8V. If the reading is significantly lower, it could be an indication that it's no longer holding a charge and may need to be replaced.
Lastly, you can also perform a load test on the battery, which simulates its voltage output while in use. For this, you'll need a special testing device called a battery load tester, and not just a regular multimeter. If the load tester gives you a reading of less than 9.6V, it's a good indication that the battery needs to be replaced.
In most cases, though, your battery may be perfectly fine. It may have simply died because you left the key turned on, the lights were left on (probably by the kids again!), or it could be due to a faulty RV alternator.
What to Do After Jump Starting Your RV, Car or Truck
Once you've started your RV's engine, let it idle for a good 20 minutes or more to ensure the alternator is charging the battery. It's even better if you take the vehicle for a short drive to make sure the battery gets charged back up to its full capacity.
Lastly, after disconnecting your jump starter, plug it in to recharge. This ensures it'll be ready for you the next time your battery runs out. So don't forget to do this as a final step!
RV Jump Starter Safety, Myths & Common Concerns
Jump starters are relatively simple to use. However, like any type of electronics, there is a right and wrong way to use them. Let's take a quick look at a few common safety concerns, myths, and issues you may encounter when using an RV jump starter.
Can an RV jump starter damage your battery or electronics?
Yes, if used improperly a jump starter can damage your RV's battery, internal electronics, the jump starter itself, and it could even lead to electric shocks or fire. Therefore, it's essential to know how to charge, use, and store your device properly to minimize these risks. Fortunately, jump starters always come with a user manual. It's essential to read it to ensure you're using the device correctly.
Can a jump starter be used in rain, snow, or extreme cold?
Yes, it's generally safe to use a jump starter in the rain, snow or extreme cold. You want to keep the device as dry as possible and avoid having it submerged in water. But a bit of rain or snow shouldn't be a problem. It's also important to store your jump starter in a dry location to avoid rust, corrosion and deterioration.
Will a jump starter work if my RV battery is completely dead?
Yes, as long as the battery is still capable of holding a charge, you should be able to boost it with a jump starter. However, if your battery is damaged, has a dead cell, or any sort of internal short, the jump starter probably won't work. Suppose you attempt to jump-start your RV multiple times without success. In that case, you may need to replace the battery to get the engine running again.
Extra RV Jump Starter Safety Tips And Advice
Here are just a few more quick safety tips to keep in mind when using an RV jump starter:
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Inspect your jump starter before use - If it's brand new you don't really need to check everything. However, it's essential to regularly inspect the cables to ensure they are in good condition, with no exposed wires or faulty connections, especially before using it.
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Always keep it charged - This is especially true when taking your jump starter on the road. Having it fully charged ensures that if you do run into a dead battery, you'll be good to go!
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Avoid gas and fumes - Never use a jump starter or start your RV if there are heavy fumes in the air. Sparks could potentially ignite fumes or gas if present.
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Never modify a jump starter. Whether it's been damaged or you consider yourself a modern-day MacGyver, you should never use a jump starter if it's been modified.
People often ask us: "Can a jump starter damage your car or battery?" and "Can you use a jump starter on a motorcyle?" - The good news is that no, using a jump starter shouldn't damage your vehicle as long as you're using it properly. You can
Buying the Right Jump Starter For Your RV
As you know by now, there are many different makes and models of jump starters out there, from more modern lithium-ion jump starters with USB-C ports and built-in flashlights to older lead-acid jump starters that weigh a ton but that are practically guaranteed to work even when it's -40°F outside.
But as we've mentioned already it's the size of your vehicle's engine that will determine which model of jump starter you'll want to buy for your RV. You'll also want to consider other features, such as USB cable plugs, flashlights, and other features or accessories that we've listed above.
Frequently Asked Questions - Best RV Jump Starter Guide
By now you know what a jump starter is and why they're such an important item to have packed into your RV, especially when hitting the highway for those longer road trips. But before we go, let's take a look at some of the questions we hear most often from our readers.
What size jump starter do I need to boost an RV?
For RVs, you'll generally want a jump starter with an output of between 1,500 to 2,000 peak amps. However, the exact size you need depends on the RV's engine size and the condition of its battery. Therefore, it's best to check your RV's manufacturer's specifications for the exact battery or jump starter capacity you'll need. That said, a jump starter with a higher peak amp output ensures more reliability, consistency and piece of mind.
What size jump starter do I need for an SUV or truck?
It depends on the size of the vehicle. For most SUVs and trucks, a jump starters with between 1,000 to 1,500 peak amps should be adequate. However, trucks and SUVs with larger engines, such as diesel pickup trucks or heavy machinery, require higher PA output ratings. So you'll want to choose a jump starter with closer to 2,000 PA output.
Is a jump starter better than jumper cables?
Neither is better than the other. Jump starters typically come with built-in cables to connect the device to a dead vehicle battery. But some units may require you to connect the device by using a separate pair of jumper cables. So if the jump starter you purchase has built-in cables, you won't need jumper cables. But it never hurts to have a set on hand, just in case the jump starter fails for whatever reason.
Can you use a jump starter in the rain or snow?
Yes, you can use a jump starter in the rain or snow. Some jump starters are water-resistant while others are waterproof. So you'll need to check the specifics of the jump starter that you're using. But generally, there's no big risks to using a jump starter in the rain or snow. Just do your best to keep the device dry while using it. On another note, you will need to store your jump starter in a dry location when it is not in use.
Can I use the same type of jump starter for both a car and motorcycle? What about for an RV?
Yes, as long as the vehicle you're jumping has a 12V battery and negative ground terminals you should be able to use the same type of jump starter on cars, trucks, RVs, motorcycles. That said, you should never use a 12V jump starter on smaller batteries as the voltage will be too high and it can damage the battery. Plus, different jump starters have different PA outputs. So if you're buying a jump starter for a larger Class A RV or to start heavy equipment, you'll want 1,500 to 2,000 PAs, which provides more boosting energy, ideal for repeated starting attempts on larger vehicles or for when boosting a dead battery in colder weather.
Do I need a jump starter if I have roadside assistance?
Technically no. But if you have a jump starter you may not need to called roadside assistance at all. If your RV or vehicle won't start, simply connect your jump starter to the dead battery to get the engine running again. However, it's never a bad idea to have both roadside assistance for other emergencies, such as RV tire blowouts or engine breakdowns, and a jump starter for those annoying dead batteries.
What’s the difference between a jump starter and a battery charger?
The main difference is that jump starters are used for emergency boosts when a vehicle won't start. They'll provide your with a temporary surge of energy to crank the engine and get it started. Whereas a battery charger or trickle charger is used to slowly recharge a dead battery. Jump starters provide an instant power boost, whereas battery chargers take between 12 and 24 hours to restore a battery's charge.