When storing your van you have a few choices.
You can shut everything down and put it on charge yourself every couple of weeks, leave the solar to top it up (either rooftop or portable) or simply let the Battery Management System perform on mains.
In all cases, the first step is to shut down the load outputs for your system. This can be done by turning the main switch off. This will either be via your Trek/Odyssey display (using the battery button or eco mode) or via the black switch. This only turns off 12v power for items connected to the BP35's outputs and will not change the way the system charges.
It's ideal wherever possible to allow the batteries to "exercise" by letting them drop to around 12·5-12·8 volts and then recharge to full periodically. This allows the batteries time to complete a full charge cycle.
Connected to charge via Mains:
After switching off the 12v outputs, ensure that all mains powered appliances are off. Most of these will have a switch marked for them (AC, Mains, Stove, HWS, etc.) but some appliances, like Microwaves, will need to be switched off at their outlet.
The Battery Management System (most often a BP35 variant) will maintain the batteries at a constant level and periodically boost the charge up with a short charge cycle. You should check the system at least once every 4 weeks to ensure everything is operational. From time to time, allow the batteries to drop down in voltage to get a full charge cycle.
This is the best method of storage.
Connected to charge via Solar:
After switching off the 12v outputs, ensure that all mains powered appliances are off. Most of these will have a switch marked for them (AC, Mains, Stove, HWS, etc.) but some appliances, like Microwaves, will need to be switched off at their outlet. Ensure that inverters as well as displays are switched off. If using an Odyssey, use the black switch to shut down the entire system.
If you do not have rooftop panels, you can portable panels via your auxiliary solar input Anderson plug on the side of the van. Ensure that the panels are suitable and the correct connection method is used.
Grey Anderson: Plug a panel with a 12v regulator attached. A regulator MUST be used.
Blue Anderson Plug: Plug an unregulated panel into this. The panel must NOT have a regulator on it. The panel must meet a minimum output of 17·5v Vmp. It is important not to confuse this with the Voc, or open-circuit voltage.
Ensure that the panels have direct light falling on them. Filtered or shaded light will not charge your batteries.
The Battery Management System (most often a BP35 variant) will maintain the batteries at a constant level and periodically boost the charge up with a short charge cycle. This will only happen when solar is available. In poor weather or if the panels are shaded or dirty, you will significantly reduce the charge to the batteries.
This is a good way to store the system. You should check this regularly to ensure that everything is working correctly, normally between 2 and 4 weeks.
Not connected to or charging via any sources:
After switching off the 12v outputs, ensure that all mains powered appliances are off. Most of these will have a switch marked for them (AC, Mains, Stove, HWS, etc.) but some appliances, like Microwaves, will need to be switched off at their outlet. Ensure the black switch is in the off position, if installed.
Ensure any and all 12v appliances are off such as inverters and gas or diesel heaters which are connected to the battery directly.
This is the least preferable way to store your van as failure to check on a regular basis could lead to premature failure of the batteries due to lack of charge. If storing this way, you will want to check the system voltage each week to ensure it doesn't fall below 12·3 volts. If each week is above this, you can move to 2 weeks between checks. It is not recommended to leave the van for more than a few weeks without checking the system voltage is above 12·3 volts.
As always, should you require any clarification or have any concerns, call us for assistance on 03 9303 7033 or open a support ticket by emailing us at support@cespro.com.au.