To disconnect or leave connected...the battery

[cannsyl]

Just wondering...I turned everything in the FW off before parking it.  I did not disconnect the battery. 
Do you all disconnect the battery or just turn everything off?

Thanks

 

[lynnmor]

You need to disconnect the battery, either by taking a cable off or using a switch for that purpose.  There are a number of things that have no switch and will discharge your battery.

 

[aguablanco]

Install a cutoff switch and use every time it is in storage. Option is buying new batteries every year.
RichH

 

[HappyWanderer]

Can you leave it plugged in?

 

[grashley]

Even with "everything turned off", there are some items still drawing power like a LP and CO detector, a 12V stereo system (maintains time and station memory) or a clock.  As Rich so clearly stated, install and use a battery cut off, they are less than $10, or plan on replacing the battery very often.

 

[Arch Hoagland]

Disconnect the batteries, open the refrigerator doors and fill the toilet bowls with water to keep the seals from drying out. We never have freezing weather to speak of.

I keep all roof vents open as they have Maxxair covers on them.

 

[keymastr]

Battery switches are cheap and less than a 10 minute install with one screwdriver. Not sure why they are not standard equipment on all rigs.

 

[mijdeets]

I don't want to hijack this post and don't want to do improper etiquette, so as a still new person to this forum, please let me know if I'm doing wrong and need to start a new thread.  But along the same lines as what was originally posted...If I have solar panels on top of my trailer, can I just leave the batteries connected all winter as they are continually charged?

 

[grashley]

mij,

You are fine asking your question here. We are not real strict on etiquette here.  HOWEVER, you will likely get more helpful information by starting a new thread.

With that said, yes, leave the solar connected!  It is a great way to keep the batteries charged.

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

Assuming there is adequate sun during the winter months, not covered with snow or leaves, etc. , then the solar should keep the batteries charged ok.

 

[lynnmor]

As Rich so clearly stated, install and use a battery cut off, they are less than $10, or plan on replacing the battery very often.

I bought two of the cheap red key type of switches in one year, get another type or a good marine switch like the Blue Sea brand.