Forum Discussion

bodomalo's avatar
bodomalo
Explorer
May 10, 2015

Storage - batteries and solar panel - on off switch

Hi

I am going to store my motorhome for a period of 8-10 months. It will be a covered (but outside) storage in Dallas area.
We have a 130W solar on it. Batteries are 1 year old.
What would you do with the batteries, beside adding water?
a) Just leave them connected to the solar (which will not produce significant power)?
b) Disconnect the wires?
c) Just switch the connector button to OFF?

I can not store the batteries at another place, well I could only bring them more inside the RV, under the bed or so.

We hade the motorhome stored before for 3 months, also covered, in Las Vegas, and I've just let them connected to the solar. The batteries had a good charge after those 3 months (but this was during warm fall months).


Thanks
bodo
Class A
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    May 10, 2015
    10 months is a long time to sit with no float or recharging. If the solar will not be working it will be best to remove the battery cables and wipe the top of the battery clean to avoid all chance of discharge. Batteries will still self discharge and will be a bit desperate for charging and equalization when you return.

    If you could make the solar work while stored I think the batteries will be in better shape upon return. Top them off with water before you go.

    Ultimate would be to have a clear window sewn into the cover. Not sure how to do that.
  • Executive45's avatar
    Executive45
    Explorer III
    May 10, 2015
    I would disconnect the batteries by removing the cables...then top off the water and recharge when you return.....Dennis
  • bodomalo's avatar
    bodomalo
    Explorer
    May 10, 2015
    scrubjaysnest wrote:
    Just leave the solar connected and check water levels every couple of months. With low light conditions the solar panel and CC will act more like a trickle charger.


    Well, I can not check it, I am away - back in Europe
  • scrubjaysnest's avatar
    scrubjaysnest
    Explorer
    May 10, 2015
    Just leave the solar connected and check water levels every couple of months. With low light conditions the solar panel and CC will act more like a trickle charger.

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