Solar panel: Winterize or leave batteries in during storage

[hammick]

We have a Stealth with the Go Power 160w solar panel system. I read the manual and the charger seems to be pretty high tech with lots of battery maintenance features built in.

We plan to use our trailer a few times during the winter and it would be a lot easier to leave the battery in and let the solar system maintain it. GP electronics recommends covering the panel and removing the battery during the winter.

Anyone in a cold climate just leave the batteries in and let the solar panel do its job?

BTW we have the battery disconnect switch inside at the convert and disconnect it when not in use.

[Jjs2000z]

I live in Southern California so winter doesn't Affect me. Even though the battery disconnect is turned off the batteries will still get charged. The solar panel is wired directly to the batteries. I think this is the best upgrade on these trailers. It saves me a ton of money by not having to turn in my generator just to charge the batteries. Also I plug in all my electronics throughout the day and charge everything.

[garbonz]

Originally Posted by Jjs2000z

I live in Southern California so winter doesn't Affect me. Even though the battery disconnect is turned off the batteries will still get charged. The solar panel is wired directly to the batteries. I think this is the best upgrade on these trailers. It saves me a ton of money by not having to turn in my generator just to charge the batteries. Also I plug in all my electronics throughout the day and charge everything.

If you solar controller is wired direct as mentioned here, then you should have no problem. You may just want to spot check the voltage a few times to make sure that you are staying fully charged

[hammick]

Thanks for the replies. My solar charger goes directly to the battery and does charge when the disconnect is off.

[Jjs2000z]

Yes I have checked and the voltage is correct and my batteries are always charged. I must say, solar on an RV is the best thing ever! I save a ton of money in gas not having to run my generator.

[jonnys_walkers]

If you live in a climate that the panels get covered with snow they will not charge.

[chiefly1]

I have the same solar system and it works awesome at maintaining the batteries even with the ghost drains as I leave the batteries connected. I don't have to worry about snow though.