Quote:
Originally Posted by NarniaBCs
My FC25 is resting winterized in my yard. I check periodically and clear snow off solar panels (live in Maine with cold winters). I'm not electrically savvy but had earlier Forum feedback that I could leave ("deep cycle coach") batteries in over winter, and I thought panels would keep batteries topped up. Today, got no response when turning battery power on. Plugged into house and all appeared immediately well. Disconnected and tried again. Saw voltage reading on monitor panel declining: lost 2 volts in 4 minutes, so I shut power off. Does this mean batteries are temporarily dead but could revive when charged in Spring or permanently dead? Should I add periodic charging off my house to my winter routine? Any recommendations and advice welcomed.
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Here are a "few" comments; first, sounds like your batteries are gone; likely bad cells, and cold weather did not help. (note-
many of us have had our "new" Interstate batteries go bad within the first year; lots of threads here on this problem.)
Many of us also disconnect with a switch or use terminal disconnect, on our batteries when not in use, especially in cold climates...There typically is some draw if you don't do this. Some folks take them inside also if not going to use for a while during really cold times.
Second comment is letting you know you have an
older technology converter which does not "charge, protect, or tend" your batteries when you are on shore power very well, which can lead to your batteries going bad when plugged in--even for a short time. In 2018 AS switched to a newer 3 stage controller/charger; however,
many of us with older rigs (<2017) have switched to a 4 stage controller/charger like the Boondocker or Progressive Dynamics units. (check out Randy at Bestconverters.com for more info) Several threads on this problem/fix also....
Third- I do not have full time solar charger, but many folks here also use this method. I use a portable that works fine when I need to use it. Also have a generator for backup.
Forth- Lots of threads on "which" battery is best;
12V wet cell,
12V AGM, 6V golf cat or
12V Li. I switched to Trojan brand 6V deep cycle golf cart batteries this past summer. Happy so far with my choice and lots of folks using 6V batteries now vs the OEM Interstate 12V's that come standard on new AS's. Also many folks using Li batteries with lots of good results.
Fifth comment...there are lots of "experts" here that can advise on extra "gadgets" to monitor your batteries, if your so inclined...I am sure you will get additional "advise" to help you with your next steps on this thread! How comfortable you are in investing more money in this area, depends on your interest and checkbook.
But, good to know as much as you can...nothing so frustrating as a dead battery!
battery power winterized
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