[C320-list] Batteries

[Jeff Hare]

Just to be clear,  "all winter" is really different for different people.  I'd say you've  been "really lucky".  :)

Flooded battery self discharge rates vary a lot based on mfgr and age.  Some older flooded batteries may drop 30%± a month if not charged, whereas a different/newer one may only lose 10%/month. I'd hazard a guess that our 4Ds run closer to 15%.  

Flooded batteries in good shape, fully charged *might* survive 4 mos without being charged but certainly won't make it 6 mos without some damage to their capacity.  Seems silly not to maintain them in storage given their importance. 

I'd stick with whatever routine works for you in your situation. 

-Jeff
------Original Message------
From: Guy Henry
Sender: c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
ReplyTo: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Batteries
Sent: Oct 28, 2009 8:50 AM

Located in CT.
I top them off and charge them fully in the fall.
Don't take them off and don't charge them all winter.
9 years and they have never been below 12 volts in the spring.
Set it and forget it.

Guy
MoonShadow #115