Battery drains

[giatt]

Hello all,
We are new to the Airstream Community. Recently, I found the batteries in our 27FB Classic to be fully drained. I had left the batteries in the "in-use" position because I was informed that the solar panel would not charge the batteries when in the "store" position. Vents, refrigerator, radio were powered off. Can anyone tell me what draws power from the batteries even when everything is powered down?
Dennis
23869

[Jammer]

The LP gas detector. Also drains them even if the switch is in "store."

I removed mine and put it in the garbage. I've written before on why I think these things don't improve safety; search for it if interested.

[tphan]

A thread that was up yesterday, similarly titled "battery drain problem" in the Electrical forum, Battery and converter sub-forum, has quite a few tips on this situation. It concerns a '70's model, with almost no normal electronic or electric power draws like your '09 likely has, but some of those things are discussed as well. Get a multi-meter, study your owner's manual, and good luck!

[HowieE]

Yes the propane detector is something you want to remove or wire in such a way it is not running while the trailer is stored.

You can put a switch inline with the 12 volt supply to it and try to remember to turn it on when using the trailer. Not likely.

You could wire it to the output side of the frig. on switch so that it was only on while the frig is on.

Looking at the year of your trailer I would suggest you charge the batteries then turn the charger off overnight. Remove the ground wire on each battery and test the voltage on each battery. They should be the same voltage at that point. Any difference and the weaker battery will draw down the stronger one. If difference is detected replace both batteries

[lsbrodsky]

Solar panel does charge in the Store position if you have the factory install. Cannot be sure if you went aftermarket.
Larry

[lewster]

Originally Posted by DennisL

Hello all,
We are new to the Airstream Community. Recently, I found the batteries in our 27FB Classic to be fully drained. I had left the batteries in the "in-use" position because I was informed that the solar panel would not charge the batteries when in the "store" position. Vents, refrigerator, radio were powered off. Can anyone tell me what draws power from the batteries even when everything is powered down?
Dennis
23869

Where did you get your solar installed? The best way to install solar is with a direct connection to the batteries thru the appropriately sized over current protection device (fuse or DC circuit breaker). This method allows your trailer to receive the full benefits of the solar charging when in storage and your battery disconnect switch is in the 'store' position.