Forum Discussion

4x4ord's avatar
4x4ord
Explorer III
Oct 10, 2018

Battery Storage

I have 4 new 6 volt batteries in my 5ver. I plugged the trailer in about a month ago and it has been plugged in ever since. I have a Xantrex Freedom 458 Inverter charger that is keeping the batteries at full charge. What is the healthier way for me to store these batteries? Am I better off to leave it plugged in or should I remove the batteries for the winter?
  • 4x4ord's avatar
    4x4ord
    Explorer III
    Leaving them in the trailer disconnected makes sense to me. They are Costco wet cell batteries.
  • My experience is that no matter how smart the charger, it will evap a wet cell battery over time if left connected 24/7/365.
  • IF....there is another reason to keep the shore power active....AND.....your Xantrex really DOES drop to a "float" voltage (about 13.2) or automatically disconnect itself as needed.....
    Then leave it plugged in and don't worry about it.
    If they are conventional wet cells, check the electrolyte level every 6 weeks or so.

    The other replies are all correct too but no need to make it more complicated than it needs to be.
  • I don't know what brand of batteries you have but I have 4 lifeline AGM batteries. When I bought them, I had the same concern. They told me to disconnect them and leave them in my camper. As long as they are fully charged when disconnected, they won't freeze and will lose 1%-2% charge over the winter months. If you have another brand or wet cell batteries, refer to what the manufacturer suggests.