Long term storage, house and engine start battery’s

  • 06/08/2018 7:02 AM
    Message # 6295733

    Are there any problems associated with about one month storage of an RV with all battery power removed from both coach and engine?  ie. Engine related computer.  Thanks. Allan

  • 08/15/2018 7:50 AM
    Reply # 6574647 on 6295733
    Deleted user

    I have a 2005 Revolution LE and remove all my batteries during the winter months (5-6 months) with no problems. 

  • 08/16/2018 1:39 AM
    Reply # 6576380 on 6295733
    Deleted user

    I might advise to put the batteries on a trickle charger and keep an eye on the water level so they don't overcharge

  • 08/23/2018 9:54 AM
    Reply # 6635476 on 6295733
    Bill & Laura Johnson (Administrator)

    Age and condition of batteries is going to be a factor. Newer batteries that have always been well maintained should handle a month or even more disconnected. Unfortunately testing with a volt meter doesn't give you the best indication, a hydrometer test of the cells is the best indicator of battery condition.

    As someone else mentioned, use of a trickle charger, if power is available, certainly helps. You also need to be aware that the disconnect switches don't disconnect everything, and sometimes there is still considerable parasitic draw on the batteries. This is most often caused by aftermarket installations that connect power on the wrong side of the disconnect. 

    When you have the opportunity where power is available to charge the batteries, use the disconnect switches and after a week check the battery level to see how they are doing. If they have dropped too low you at least have power available to recharge. 

  • 02/16/2021 11:24 AM
    Reply # 10104746 on 6295733

    I have a 2016 Pace Arrow LXE 38.  I store my coach during the winter and have had an ongoing issue with the batteries draining.  It came with a Magnum inverter and I was told that if I plug the coach into 110 and turn the inverter on, the 110 current through the inverter will charge both the coach and house batteries. 

    Is that correct or am I damaging my batteries and electrical system?

    Thanks

  • 02/17/2021 8:53 AM
    Reply # 10109135 on 6295733
    Pete Baker (Administrator)

    Hi Scott,   When you say storage, do you mean in an open storage lot, a covered storage, or inside a building?  I ask because some Pace Arrows have a single solar panel on top to keep the batteries charged in storage. It’s only purpose is to offset the minimum draw while not in use.   If you have one on your coach, as long as it gets sunlight you won’t need to plug-in.   

    if covered, inside, or no solar panel, you can dogbone down to 110.  I’d probably make sure the fridge was off and doors blocked slightly open to prevent mold and keep the amp draw down while stored, but that’s just a personal opinion.  


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