Battery Possible Problem.

[MickyP]

Hi My Campervan Fiat Ducato is fitted with 120 watt Solar panel, and two 95 amp AGM leisure batteries which are about 28 months old.
just spent three nights on aires Murcia region of Spain. no hook up, sat outside all evening and only used lights (led) to prepare for bed.
the fridge operates on battery only and was only item in use. after second night power indicator was orange and after 3 was red.
after some sun went orange and after a 1 hour drive went green. So I assume the Solar panel is trickle charging and the Engine also charging.
why would battery run down so quick especially after lots of Sunshine and no use of van electric. ?
before have had 6 or 7 days with no problem.
can batteries be dead after just 28 months. ?
if they are found to be dead what’s best replacement. ?

 

[pappajohn]

can batteries be dead after just 28 months. ?

AGM...... certainly could.
Not designed as leisure batteries.
You could do a discharge test. Remove habitation Neg wire from battery. Charge fully on a battery charger then connect a 60watt headlamp bulb to the batteries. That's a 5a load so should last around 19 hours to 50% discharged... 12.2v
Unless you're made of money and can afford lithium and a suitable charger, replace with GEL or wet lead/acid. batteries