Connect or disconnect

doubleplay · #1 (**permalink**) 08-26-2003

I am going to live my 36'' sailboat in a marina for 6-8 months somewhat unattented.
I have a mastervolt 25 amp charger and shore power connection.
Do you think I should disconnect the batteries or not stay connected to shore power or else?
I have traditional wet batteries house and engine..
Thanks

jbanta · #2 (**permalink**) 08-26-2003

Since you won''t be around to service those batteries and they are wet cell I would disconnect them. Putting a charge on a wet battery with low water is bad for that batteries and put even turn dangerous.

jbanta · #3 (**permalink**) 08-26-2003

Since you won''t be around to service those batteries and they are wet cell I would disconnect them. Putting a charge on a wet battery with low water is bad for that batteries and put even turn dangerous.

AJS · #4 (**permalink**) 08-27-2003

I would contact the manufacturers of the both the charger and the batteries and see what they think.
Many modern smart chargers can be left connected on "float" without boiling the batteries dry, but 6-8 monthes is quite a long time. Its also quite a long time to let a battery sit without recharging. The battery will self discharge and this isn''t good for them either.
AJS

jbanta · #5 (**permalink**) 08-27-2003

I would agree that leaving batteries to sit allowing them to self discharge is bad but wet cell batteries can even explode if charged when they run dry..

GordMay · #6 (**permalink**) 08-28-2003

For the reasons already stated, I would prefer to see the untended battery charger and shore power disconnected.
However, if you are concerned about maintaining an operational 12V bilge pump - you may choose to install a little "Battery Tender" type maintainer/charger (ie: Guest #2602/2603), in lieu of the 25A charger. The 2602 only puts out about 0.6 Amps, and is not likely to boil off your electrolyte.
Also, make provision to have someone monitor the boat, and report & deal with any problems.
Regards,
Gord