Should I Disconnect My RV Battery When Plugged In
After purchasing my first RV, I knew that it would demand careful attention and high maintenance to keep it in pristine condition and ensure its longevity. It is a valuable investment, and you cannot risk its essential components getting damaged. Apart from its proper maintenance, one question that troubled me was: should I disconnect my battery or leave it connected when plugged into shore power?
A few of my RV-owner neighbors suggested disconnecting the batteries completely to enhance the batteries lifespan. However, I was still not sure about it, so I did some research to know whether I should disconnect it or not.
In this blog, I will provide a detailed answer to this question, which will help you make the right decision.
Should I Disconnect My RV Battery When Plugged into Shore Power?
Generally speaking, the answer is NO. There is no reason for you to disconnect the batteries when they are plugged in. It is suggested to leave the battery switch ON, as it will ensure that they are fully charged. Also, keeping the battery switch ON will prevent voltage spikes in the electrical system and power failure. Once you realize that the batteries are fully charged, switch them off to prevent overcharging. Another reason for keeping the battery switch ON is that it will provide backup power for your appliances and other electrical devices. It won’t drain the battery unnecessarily.
Many RV owners also complained about their batteries getting drained while plugged in. So if you want to know the reasons, then keep reading.
Why is My RV Battery Draining While Plugged In?
One of the reasons is the malfunctioning converter. If it is not working properly, it will not charge the battery properly and will gradually discharge it. Another factor that might have stopped the batteries from charging is something that tripped your breaker, converter, or inverter. Moreover, your battery might be old or damaged and not holding the charge well, causing drainage issues. Lastly, leaving the battery disconnect switch in the “Off” position while connected to shore power can also lead to battery drain.
Should I Disconnect My RV Battery When Not in Use?
It is advisable to disconnect the battery when not in use for a short period of time. Use a battery switch or cut-off switch to prevent the battery from draining during the storage phase. If not, then other appliances like refrigerators and propane detectors will drain the battery during storage. In the end, the longer the battery sits empty, the more damage it will cause. If it runs out of charge, you cannot just recharge it. It can be very challenging, if not impossible, to restart a deep-cycle battery. Also, if you don’t intend to use your battery for a long time, you should keep it in a dry, cool place to prevent damage.
Solution
An effective solution to prevent battery drainage during storage is to install a battery switch. You can install a high-quality battery switch, which keeps potential failures at bay.
Also, you can have a solar system installed and keep your battery fully charged. It costs less than a full battery replacement.
Does the RV battery charge when plugged into shore power is another commonly asked issue. Discover more about this below.
Should the RV Battery Charge When Plugged In?
Yes, when your RV is turned on and plugged into shore power, the battery will start to charge. The external power source will provide power to the battery and help charge it efficiently. Additionally, while your generator is running, the car’s engine is running, or there are solar panels installed, your RV batteries will also be charged. It mainly depends on how the manufacturer has wired the unit.
Conclusion
In order to maintain the pristine condition and lifespan of an RV, precise care and maintenance are required. RV owners, including myself, were uncertain about whether to unplug the battery while plugged into shore power. After thorough research, it is evident that while the battery is plugged into shore power, there is no need to unplug it because leaving the switch on guarantees that the battery charges properly and prevents power failures. Furthermore, to prevent drainage, it’s best to disconnect the battery during storage or use a battery switch. Moreover, investing in a solar system or a reliable battery switch can safeguard against potential issues, saving costs and ensuring a worry-free journey.