Battery cutoff switch

So....like a lot of stuff, the real answer is: It depends.

If your converter is applying between 12.8 and 13.4 volts, you shouldn't need to do anything.....except check the electrolyte level occasionally.

Definitely don't need to be disconnecting anything for short periods of camping. The disconnect switch really is there for long periods of non-use.....when not connected to shore power.

If I'm hooked up to shore power for a week or so longer, I will switch my batteries off. My 3-stage converter seems to over-charge my Trojan 6-volt batteries. This condition doesn't seem to create any problems with my system at all.

On for sure.

dalen wrote:
When I am at a campsite with full hookup should I disconnect the battery via the battery cutoff switch. Does it hurt the battery by being connected to the converter all the time. I understand that when the rv is in storage the switch should be off.

You must leave it on. FWIW, if it's wired like my cutoff switch, only the landing gear and detectors will work when off; no fridge, water heater or any other 12v light, plug or appliance will work.

Lyle

If I'm not mistaken you should have the battery on otherwise you can overload the converter with too many 12v lights, appliances, on at one time. Check the manual for the converter as it might provide insight.

This has really become less of an issue with the newer SMART MODE converter/chargers installed in the newer RV units. These type converter/chargers will take care of your battery really nice...

What you don't want to happen is having your battery boil out fluids being connected all the time. This occurs when the older type converter/charger units are only running at 13.6VDC and over time may boil out your battery fluids. This takes many days however to happen.

I monitor my battery bank all the time in my setup when camping at shore power locations as well as camping off the power grid and make sure they are not getting hot and the DC VOLTAGEs are all nominal...

Roy Ken

When using the RV the battery should be on. The converter keeps it charged. You keep the battery maintained. Off for storage on for use. On while towing also.