Forum Discussion

radar46's avatar
radar46
Explorer
Feb 04, 2019

Batteries in freezing temperatures?

Is there any danger of battery damage in outside temps of
20-30 degrees (F) in my 5th wheel Cougar? The two 6 volts
are enclosed in a thick case with a blanket over the case.
No heat in front storage.
Thanks,
Warren.
  • RoyB's avatar
    RoyB
    Explorer II
    I switch my batteries OFF and leave them on my trailer tongue during the winter months If I see them get below 12.5VDC I will throw them on a trikle charge unit... If they ever get down to 12.0 VDC I will do a full 100% charge state on them...

    My original set of 12V 85AH Interstate Batteries lasted from 2008 throuh 2014 doing this...

    I replaced them in 2015 with two groups of two 6V batteries in series...

    Roy Ken
  • The colder the better for lead acid cells. -77 C is the freezing point for a fully charged battery. If it is that cold, you may have a lot more to worry about than batteries.
  • Actually, batteries suffer more damage from heat exposure.
  • Cold snap, snow on the daffodils! Local RVers panic! :)
  • Thanks for the quick replies--there is a plug-in available for occasional use only so once the batteries get down to the area of
    (+ or -) 12 volts I plug her in again for a day or so.
    Thanks again,
    Warren.
  • Agree with jkwilson, but may be best to disconnect if storing, as a small amount of parasitic draw can slowly discharge them.

    Jerry
  • Not if they are charged. A fully charged battery is good to down around -90F.

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