How to Disconnect RV Battery for Storage

To disconnect an RV battery for self storage, you'll either use the RV's disconnect switch or manually remove the cables from all batteries, like the house and chassis batteries. Read below for more steps in the RV battery disconnect process, and ensure your vehicle is ready for long-term storage.

Step 1: Turn Off RV & Put on Safety Gear

Ensure that all electrical components in your vehicle are turned off before beginning any work on the RV battery disconnect. If your RV doesn't have a disconnect switch or if you are storing your RV in an extreme climate, you need to wear gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself when manually disconnecting the battery.

Step 2: Locate Battery Disconnect Switch

If your vehicle has an RV disconnect switch, it can usually be located in a storage bay, the stairwell inside, or at the front of the camper near the batteries. By turning the disconnect switch off, you'll disconnect the battery from the RV electrical system, preventing your batteries from discharging while in storage. Once you flip the disconnect switch off, you may need to disconnect the battery cables before you store your RV, depending on your climate. If you live in a very cold or very hot climate, or plan to store your RV outdoors, you may want to manually disconnect your battery.

Step 3: Find The Battery

Consult your owner's manual for the exact location of RV batteries. Your RV may have separate batteries for the cabin and the engine, so you might have more than one battery. Camper batteries are typically located either towards the front of the trailer or in a storage bay.

Step 4: Disconnect Cables

Once you've found the battery, you'll need to remove the negative cable first without touching the positive cable. After you've disconnected the negative cable, you can remove the positive cable. Ensure at this point that no cables are touching metal. Repeat this process for any battery in your RV.

Step 5: Store the Battery Properly

RV batteries need to be stored in a cool, dry place once removed to ensure they function properly when you need to use them again. This is recommended for those who plan to store their vehicles in a cold climate—even if your vehicle has a disconnect switch. Water in batteries can freeze if the temperatures drop too low.

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