Another Question about the "Battery Disconnect" Switch

[kamadeca]

Hi folks,

Here we go again, another question about the Battery Disconnect Switch. I searched the forums, but didn't find anything that was directly related to my situation. So here goes.
Scenario
- 2015 30' International Serenity
- original convertor (single stage)
- original batteries (Interstate Group 24s)
- Custom Solar installation with multistage charger for batteries
- plugged into shore power for 5 1/2 months (Arizona)
My question is - should I leave the Disconnect Switch on or off? The rationale for leaving it off is that then the batteries would not be charged through the convertor (single stage), but rather through the solar panels. Since the solar panels are connected to a multistage convertor isn't this better for the batteries?

Thanks as always for the insightful answers that I am sure I am going to receive.

[rmkrum]

As long as the solar controller is connected directly to the batteries this works well. My MPPT controller with temperature probe does a much better job charging my batteries than the stock converter (single stage battery boiler) with the disconnect switch set to ‘store’.

That said, be darn sure the solar controller is, in fact, hardwired to the batteries. My self-installed System did not start our that way, but IS that way now. (Both disconnect relay studs look identical when you are crawling under the front bed in the dark. Had a 50-50 chance and picked wrong!)

[JMynes]

Plugged in to shore power for 5 1/2 months, the single stage converter will definitely cook your batteries.
So yes, push “store” on the switch and enjoy your time in Arizona.
Hopefully your solar is set up to charge the batteries independent of the other systems.
Keep an eye on your battery voltage. The solar charger should keep it above 13v. If it gets down to 12.7 then push the “use” button for a day, then go back to “store”.
It’s also good to check your batteries’ electrolyte level on a regular basis.