Solar Trickle Charger?

[Michael-Rhonda]

Greetings – any suggestions on a solar trickle charger to keep batteries charged over the winter in Colorado? There are some good posts from 10 years or so ago but I’m looking for any updated suggestions. My TM is stored at a storage facility with no electricity. I would like to keep the batteries in the TM. I use a battery disconnect switch. A quick look on Amazon and Harbor Freight yields several possibilities. Suggestions on brands? How much power (I saw 5 watts suggested)? Thoughts on mounting? Any other ideas? Thanks!

[Wavery]

Originally Posted by Michael-Rhonda

Greetings – any suggestions on a solar trickle charger to keep batteries charged over the winter in Colorado? There are some good posts from 10 years or so ago but I’m looking for any updated suggestions. My TM is stored at a storage facility with no electricity. I would like to keep the batteries in the TM. I use a battery disconnect switch. A quick look on Amazon and Harbor Freight yields several possibilities. Suggestions on brands? How much power (I saw 5 watts suggested)? Thoughts on mounting? Any other ideas? Thanks!

If your only interest is in maintaining the batteries while in storage, it's quite simple.

Find any 20-25W solar panel with charge controller and wire. 5W is not enough.

Theft may be an issue. Check the battery water level every 2-3 months. If low, fill with DISTILLED water only. Of, course, keep it clear of snow.

Here's a typical one.
https://www.amazon.com/TP-solar-Mono...6&sr=8-21&th=1

[Michael-Rhonda]

Thank you, Wavery. Very helpful.

[Wavery]

Originally Posted by Michael-Rhonda

Thank you, Wavery. Very helpful.

You're welcome. I have that same set-up for my driveway gate openers that operate off of a 12V battery. The solar panel keeps the battery fully charged for years, no matter if it's cloudy skies. Our gates never fail to work.