Frequently used in RVs, boats, and other automobile systems, 12V batteries are a key component in many devices. A battery will need one or more cells to produce an electric current through a chemical reaction, allowing electrons to flow through a circuit. However, batteries cannot generate energy or power on their own and instead store it for later use.
The power provided by a battery is direct current (DC) as opposed to the alternating current (AC) received from wall outlets in homes. If necessary, DC electricity can be converted to AC power using an inverter.. Additionally, multiple 12-volt batteries can be connected in series or parallel to create a higher voltage or more storage capacity. For example, two 12-volt batteries in series results in a 24-volt system. However, if these same batteries were connected in parallel, the voltage would remain at 12 volts, but the amount of time the device can be powered would double.
Installed on a boat, these batteries are often used in series to provide 36 volts for a trolling motor. In an RV, this battery system generally powers basic systems like lights and some appliances while plugged into shore power. However, when travelling or boondocking, the battery system is the main power source.