Using shore power with bad batteries
I have two batteries that only show 11v on my multimeter. I have tried to charge them up but can't get them to read above 11 volts. Is it safe to use the RV occasionally plugged into AC power until I ...
Forum Discussion
NEOK wrote:
I have two batteries that only show 11v on my multimeter. I have tried to charge them up but can't get them to read above 11 volts. Is it safe to use the RV occasionally plugged into AC power until I can replace the batteries in a couple of months?
No,
It is not "safe" to leave the batteries connected with shore power on.
It is however safe to disconnect the batteries and use the converter to power the trailer as needed.
Just remember, IF you need to move the trailer via public roads, you WILL need a good working 12V battery for the Emergency break away system..
Your batteries on the trailer do double duty, they power the trailer and provide power for the break away system.
The reason it is not safe to leave bad batteries connected and charging is the chances of bad batteries over heating, boiling dry or possibly exploding goes up.
Play it safe, 11V from 12V batteries means they are toast and you should not only disconnect them but REMOVE them from the trailer also.
Store the bad batteries outside your house, trailer or garage (although if outside make sure they can't be accessed by kids or pets) until you have the chance to take them in for battery core charge.
You don't want to be around when one of these to explode..
I would not wait, just take them in for the core charge and get some new batteries.
