Should I Disconnect My RV Battery When Plugged In?

If you want your RV battery to last longer, you should disconnect it immediately after it’s fully charged. This is because when it stays plugged in th electrolyte cell levels will be depleted. But when you unplug it the electrolytes stay safe and your battery will last longer. 

However, the answer to this question can also differ on the type of converters that you’re using on your RV. Some modern RVs come with modern converters that give a slow charge. And this means leaving them plugged in doesn’t really cause any serious issues on the RV. 

So, Should I Disconnect My RV Battery When Plugged In?

It depends if you have a smart charging system in order to maintain optimal voltage. Then you can always keep connected to your RV battery while plugged in. Just make sure it won’t overcharge your battery.

This is a sulfation prevention technic to always connect a battery plugged in. When a battery keeps depleted lower than 80% it will push the acid to the bottom of the battery while the water drifts at the top which causes sulfation.

To prevent this, you should always keep your RV plugged in with a modern smart charger. 

But if your RV is connected to external power, you don’t need the batteries. So if your converter is correctly connected to the external power source, then you can unplug your battery. 

Common Types of RV Batteries 

One of the best decisions you can ever make is to choose the best battery for your RV. This will ensure you get a more convenient performance from your RV. You can choose between an AGM and Lithium-ion battery. 

Here’s their comparison 

AGM vs Lithium-ion for Your RV

If you’re not sure whether to use an AGM or Lithium-ion battery for your RV, then here are common comparisons to check out. Consider each of these two and make your decision. 

TypeAdvantagesDisadvantages
Gel CellSpill and corrosion-proof.Lightweight.Long lifespan.Expensive.Easy to overcharge. Special charging is required.
AGMCan use standard RV charging.Spill and corrosion-proof.True maintenance-free.More expensive.
Lithium-ionLong-lasting.No self-discharge.Rapid charging.Expensive.Newer technology.

 

Tips for Longer RV Battery Life

There are many ways to extend your RV battery life. Here are some of the tips:

  • Do not overcharge or undercharge.
  • Try not to let the charge drop below 80%.
  • Invest in an RV battery monitor.
  • Do not store the battery uncharged.
  • Clean it regularly.
  • Invest in an RV battery monitor to read the charge.
  • Maintain batteries during off-seasons.
  • Disconnect the battery when it is not used.
  • Invest in a smart charging system.
  • Buy at least a good camper battery to camp with.

Best Batteries for RV

In the market, you can find all kinds of batteries. You might be confused about choosing the best option for your RV. But we won’t allow that to happen to you. The following are the top three best batteries for your RV. Choose any of these three and you’ll get amazing performance. 

  1. Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery: 

This maintenance-free battery relieves you from worrying about any leakage. The proprietary alloy plate ensures the internal resistance is low and the discharge rate is optimal. It has a long shelf life. The monthly discharge rate is under 3%. Which means you can store it for a long time.

  • Maintenance-free 
  • Internal resistance 
  • Long shelf life 

Check the price on Amazon now 

  1. Optima OPT8016-103: 

The Optima battery will make sure you get enough to start your RV even in bad weather. This battery is more resistant to vibration than its peer. So, you won’t have to worry when you drive off-road. On top of that, it has a reserve capacity of 120, ensuring constant performance.

  • Bad weather resistant 
  • Vibration resistant 
  • Constant performance 

Click here to check the latest price 

  1. ExpertPower 12V 20Ah: 

It is one of the most efficient batteries out there. This battery’s discharge curve holds above 12 volts up to 95% of capacity. The weight is 1/3 of a lead-acid battery, so you will easily carry it around. The built-in Battery Management System protects it from short circuits, overloading, overheating, deep discharge, and overcharge.

  • Efficient performance 
  • Lead-acid battery 
  • Inbuilt protection system 

Click here to check the latest Amazon price 

Bottom Line

If you want your RV battery to last longer, it’s advisable to disconnect the battery when plugged in an external power source. This prevents the battery electrolytes from getting depleted. Alternatively, you can invest in a good adapter that won’t overcharge your battery. But the most important thing to do is ensure you buy the right battery for your RV.

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