Top 7 Best RV Battery Disconnect Switches

You must be wondering why your RV’s battery depletes so quickly? You’re probably leaving it connected for too long. But no one has the time to keep connecting and disconnecting the battery.

And that’s why you have battery disconnect switches. They make it easier for you to disconnect the battery when not in use. This means you can extend your battery life for well over days, especially if you’re going for a long trip.

But despite their simplicity, not every switch is the same. And that’s what we’re here for. Here’s the review of our top 7 best RV battery disconnect switches.

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Best Battery Disconnect Switch for RV Reviewed

Battery Switch, 12V 24V 48V By Lotfancy Store

Want a battery disconnect switch that will last you for longer? Then try this one from LotFancy Store. It’s from durable plastic that doesn’t corrode or melt over time.

And the studs and nuts are all made from tinned copper, which doesn’t rust. Moreover, the mounting screws are of stainless steel to enhance their operating life.

But while durability is undoubtedly a key feature, it’s not the only one. This battery disconnect switch is effortless to operate. It works like a simple rotary switch that turns the battery on and off.

What’s more, it’s entirely versatile due to its design, and you can use it in almost all automobiles. This includes land vehicles like campers, cars, and RVs and boats, and marine vehicles.

Additionally, it’s extremely easy to install. The tools required are already included and can also be bought from the local hardware store. But the instructions could be a lot easier to understand.

Pros:

• Durable plastic housing.
• Tinned copper nuts and studs.
• Stainless steel mounting screws.
• Simple rotary operation.
• Extremely versatile.

Cons:

• Instructions could be more precise.

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Ampper Battery Switch, 12-48v

If you’re looking for a safe-to-use battery disconnect switch, the Ampper should be your first choice. It’s a heavy-duty switch from a smooth ABS plastic housing that doesn’t break or melt easily.

Speaking of melting, the rear cover has a lot of insulation that keeps the terminals from overheating. This would be useful if there is a short circuit.

Unlike other switches, this one feature only 2 positions: On and Off. So, there’s no confusing intermediate stage.

In addition to that, the actuator is rotary to avoid accidental pressing. This switch is compatible with 12V to 48V DC systems. It works to disconnect the battery safely without causing short circuits immediately.

You can either leave it as a stand-alone or integrate it with a switchboard to install the switch. It has a universal fit for almost all vehicles, including RVs, cars, and boats.

One problem you may find is that the bolts are too long, meaning you’ll need a lot of rear clearance.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty construction.
• The rear cover is heavily insulated.
• Easy to operate.
• Can be integrated into a switchboard.
• Universal fit for RVs, cars, and boats.

Cons:

• Bolts are too long.

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Battery Switch, Briidea 12v-48v

For those who want a safe way to disconnect the battery, consider the Briidea battery isolator switch. Its primary purpose is to disconnect the battery safely when you’re not using it without running the risk of a short circuit.

Externally, the switch is from a durable ABS plastic housing that can survive even harsh marine conditions. Even the studs and nuts are made from copper, which won’t rust or corrode under the influence of sea salt.

To ensure safe operation, the switch is in the form of a rotary actuator, so it’s harder to activate it accidentally. When you start it, the battery disconnects and the rear covering prevents any short circuits.

This type of circuit is the best as it has many applications in boats, ships, campers, trailers, ATVs, and even UTVs.

Unfortunately, you might find the screws to be either too long or too short. Otherwise, the installation is a breeze. The studs and nuts are already included. And it comes with an instruction manual.

Pros:

• Disconnects battery safely.
• Durable ABS housing.
• Suitable for marine conditions.
• Prevents accidental engaging.
• Prevents short-circuits.

Cons:

• Screw sizes may be inconsistent.

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Battery Switch Disconnect Isolator by Liyyoo

This battery disconnect switch from LIYYOO is the best choice for those who want a compact solution. It weighs 7.2 ounces and is made from a lightweight ABS material.

But don’t be fooled by the weight; the LIYYOO battery isolator switch is highly durable. It can withstand harsh marine conditions such as high humidity and sea salt. And thanks to the complex ABS plastic housing and the copper studs. It’s quite well-built and feels solid under your fingers.

It’s a great choice for those who want to use the switch on their cars, boats, and RVs. It works on 12 to 48V systems and can be easily integrated into any control panel.

It safely disconnects the battery without running the risk of a short circuit. Furthermore, it’s a simple rotary knob that can turn immediately in the case of an emergency.

Some of the bolts may be too big, and you may be needing some rear clearance.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable.
• Easy to integrate into control panels.
• Suitable for marine conditions.
• Heavy-duty body.
• Safely disconnects the battery.

Cons:

• Bolts may be too long.

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Battery Disconnect Switch 12v 24v 48v 60v

Want a battery disconnect switch that will last as long as your RV; you might like this switch from Aomeite. It’s a simple battery disconnect switch, but what intrigues us is the heavy-duty construction.

The dial itself and the housing are made from ABS plastic. It’s a well-known type of plastic that can survive heat as well as humidity and sea salt.

And the metallic parts are all made from tinned copper. Tinned copper tends to resist discoloration and oxidation. So, there’s little to no chance of corrosion.

Apart from that, it works fairly simply. Spin the dial to turn the battery on or off. The side plates are entirely removable and can be hooked up to 1/0 cables.

But wait, there’s more!

You also get a rear cover that insulates against short circuits. And as such, the switch meets or exceeds ABYC requirements.

The only issue is that the instructions manual is a bit hard to read. But with time, you’ll get the hang of it.

Pros:

• Strong ABS plastic housing.
• Protected against humidity.
• Safe from oxidation and discoloration.
• Rear insulation.
• Meets ABYC standards.

Cons:

• The instruction manual could be improved.

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Kohree Battery Disconnect Switch

For RV owners who have to deal with two batteries, the Kohree Battery Disconnect Switch is the best choice. It features the typical bright red rotary design but with a twist. Now, you can control the operation of two batteries.

You can quickly toggle between keeping both the batteries off, one on at a time, or both on. In this way, you don’t have to shut down all the batteries, just the ones you don’t need.

And it’s not just on RVs – you can use this switch practically anywhere: boats, cars, ATVs, trucks, even campers.

The battery disengaging system is relatively safe since it is CE-certified. And the rear cover protects you from short circuits.

However, if you’re used to the single-battery switches, this one will take some time to get used to. The “Both off” section is colored with red, though, so emergency shut-downs won’t be hard.

Apart from that, the dial is quite big and heavy-duty. It’s made from ABS plastic, and all the metallic parts are made of tinned copper.

Pros:

• Valid for two batteries.
• CE certified.
• Safe and secure battery disconnection.
• Rear cover projects from short circuits.
• Big readable dial.

Cons:

• Slight learning curve.

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Nilight – 90015a Battery Switch 12-48v

The Nilight is a safe and convenient battery disengaging switch for those who want to save more power on their RVs. It’s compatible with 12-to-48-volt systems and runs at a continuous 275 A.

What makes it special, however, is the construction. It’s made from solid plastic that isn’t prone to corrosion, unlike most metals. And the metals that the switch does use are all protected against moisture and oxidation.

This also means you can use the button on boats and ships’ cabins. It’s not entirely waterproof, and you should always be careful with water around switches anyway. But it will survive the general corrosion that humidity can cause.

It’s a highly safe piece of equipment that ensures that you never have to deal with high voltages.

One issue with the design is that the knob doesn’t turn all the way. Therefore, if you try to turn it more than 90 degrees in either direction, you’ll likely break it.

Pros:

• Good for most 12-48V systems.
• Durable plastic construction.
• Safe to use on boats and ships.
• A convenient way to disconnect the battery.
• Saves more power.

Cons:

• Do not turn more than 90 degrees.

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How To Choose The Best RV Battery Disconnect Switch?

Size

RV battery disconnect switches pretty much come in a standard size, which is 2.7″ x2.7″. But the exact dimensions will vary. The size of the switch will decide how comfortable it is to use. Since these switches are often used in emergencies, you want a big red switch that can be turned with ease.

As for the style of the switch, most people opt for rotary switches. These are much better than push buttons as there’s no risk of accidentally pushing them. Look for a switch with a larger OFF section and a smaller ON section to make it easier to disconnect.

Weight

Weight isn’t usually a significant concern for many people. After all, how much can a tiny switch weigh? But the main issue is with using the switch. A heavier switch will be harder to turn. Now, this depends on a few other factors, but the weight does come into play.

Battery disconnect switches typically weigh about 7 to 8 ounces (0.44 to 0.5 lbs.), and some are even lighter. They’re quite light since they’re made from plastic and have a few metal parts.

Material

Material is the most important factor to consider. You want a battery disconnect switch that’s durable and will withstand high voltages. And if you’re using it on a boat or any other marine vehicle, you want it to withstand at least splashes of water and sea salt.

ABS plastic is the best choice in this regard. It’s quite versatile and doesn’t break on impact. Plus, it’s not corroded by water or salt. The mounting screws and nuts can be, though, so make sure they’re made from copper or stainless steel.

Amp Load

Every battery disconnect switch has a max amperage rating beyond which it will likely fail or overheat. It’s a good idea always to check the amp load first.

There isn’t any set rule here. Make sure the switch can tolerate currents as high as your alternator can produce.

The correct amperage isn’t just for the switch, though. It also protects the battery from short circuits and keeps you safe from electrical hazards.

Installation

Finally, consider the installation. Most switches don’t require much. Just fasten a few bolts, and you’re good to go. The real issue comes when you’re connecting the wires. Follow the instructions mentioned in the user manual. Be sure to check what type of cable the switch uses.

Another thing to consider is whether you want a top post or a side post model. Top post models are the most common, and they’re especially easy to install.

FAQ

What Are the Different Types of RV Battery Disconnect Switches?

There are the knife-style, knob-style, and keyed-and-rotary styles. The knife-style switch has an armature that can be connected or disconnected. The knob style has a knob that can be turned for disconnection. And the keyed-and-rotary style use keyed switches to operate.

How Does A Battery Disconnect Switch Work On RV?

The switch works like any other switch. It’s able to handle the constant flow of current through the cables. And when needed, it cuts the connection off between the battery and the rest of the RV. The plastic does not melt from the heat produced by the current. And you don’t need to connect and disconnect the battery terminals constantly.

See also: Best Dual Battery Isolators

How Do I Disconnect My RV Battery?

Disconnecting your RV battery is fairly simple with a disconnect switch. Turn the dial to the OFF position or otherwise turn the switch off.

Conclusion

An RV disconnect switch is no doubt one of the devices you can install conveniently. It safely disconnects the battery without short-circuiting it. And you get to save heaps of power by just disconnecting the battery when you don’t need it.

Of all the switches that we reviewed today, the RV Battery Disconnect Switch by LotFancy seems to be the best one. It’s strong, durable, and quite versatile. Plus, the installation is a piece of cake.

Now buy your first battery disconnect switch and make smarter use of your energy!

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