A Disconnect Switch Is best For Infrequently Used Batteries
Disconnecting your batteries with a disconnect switch helps you conserve power and protect your batteries when in storage. But how do you know which battery disconnect switch is best for your RV? There are several different designs for battery disconnect switches – and not all switches are created equal. Let’s look at what to consider when buying an RV battery disconnect switch and which ones are the best for your RV.
What to Consider When Buying a Disconnect Switch
Have you read all about RV battery disconnect switches and decided you want (or need) one for your RV?
When looking for a battery disconnect switch, there are three main things to consider:
- Amp rating
- Design
- Installation method
Amp Rating
Every disconnect switch has an amp rating, which is the maximum amperage it can handle without damage.
Most switches will list multiple ratings. They’ll almost always have a continuous rating and frequently also an intermittent (aka “surge”) rating and/or “momentary” or “cranking” amp rating. These last two describe the amperage the switch can withstand for short periods, typically a few minutes for intermittent and a few seconds for momentary.
It’s essential that the amp rating of the switch exceeds the amperage of your batteries. If not, you could risk damaging your RV batteries when using a disconnect switch.
Design
RV battery disconnect switches have a variety of different designs. The most common are:
- Knife blade switches: Knife blade switches are some of the simplest disconnect switches. These attach directly to the RV battery and a thin metal lever (the “knife”) is moved in or out of a metal post to connect or disconnect the battery.
- Knob-style switches: Similar to knife blade switches, knob-style switches attach directly to the posts on your batteries. A simple round plastic knob can be turned to connect and disconnect the battery.
- Remote switches: Remote disconnect switches are installed at some distance from the batteries, such as in the battery box or inside your RV. The switch is typically a plastic rotary knob, but some can operate using a small remote control.
- Keyed switches: Keyed switches are typically remote switches that require a key to connect or disconnect the batteries.
Installation Method
You’ll also want to consider how you’ll install your battery disconnector onto your RV battery bank.
Simpler switches, like knife blade switches, are extremely easy to install. Attach the switch to a battery post, then reattach the leads with the switch in the “disconnected” position.
Remote switches, on the other hand, are a bit more complex. You’ll need to install wires between the switch and your RV battery and then mount the switch itself. This isn’t too difficult, but it will require more planning and effort. If you aren’t comfortable with the process, you should enlist the help of a professional.
The 5 Best Battery Disconnect Switches
Now that you know what to consider, let’s look at the five best disconnect switches you can buy right now.
Ampper Remote Battery Switches
The best switch overall is the Ampper Battery Switch. These battery disconnect switches are popular and highly regarded. There is a version for multiple battery banks and a high current version.
These switches are made of heavy-duty plastic and feature a rotary switch and housing, with mounting bolts provided.
- Amp Rating: 275A continuous/455A intermittent/1250A momentary. For the high current version: 600A continuous/2500A momentary
- Design: Remote rotary switch
- Installation: Wired remotely to the battery
KTNNKG Remote Battery Disconnect Switch with Remote Control
The KTNNKG Remote Battery Disconnect Switch is a great switcher for those that need a switch that’s truly remote. This device uses a small keychain remote control to connect and disconnect the RV battery.
The remote works with a receiver installed in the vehicle, which sends the actual signal to the switch to disconnect the battery. Plus, you can also pair extra remotes if you need them. The system also includes a manual switch in case you have any issues with your remote control.
- Amp rating: 180A continuous/1000A momentary
- Design: Remote switch with remote control
- Installation: Wired remotely to the battery
Ampper Top Post & Side Post Switches
If you just want a simple switch that mounts directly onto your battery, the Ampper Top Post Battery Disconnect Switch is the switch for you.
This knob-style switch is super easy to install and operate. Because of its small profile, it can easily be installed even in tight spaces.
If your RV battery has the posts on the side instead of the top, Ampper also makes a side post battery disconnect switch. Besides the position they’re meant to be installed in, both switches are the same.
- Amp rating: 125A continuous (neither momentary nor intermittent ratings given)
- Design: Knob-style switch
- Installation: Installs directly onto the battery post
Zoostliss Keyed Battery Disconnect Switch
If you want extra security, this Zoostliss Keyed Switch is the disconnect switch for you. You can only operate this switch with the included key, ensuring no one flips the switch without you knowing. This is great when RVing with kids or to keep the switch safe from anyone with less than honest intentions.
- Amp rating: 200A continuous/500A momentary
- Design: Remote keyed switch
- Installation: Wired remotely to the battery
Fastronix 300A Severe Duty Master Battery Disconnect Switch
If you need something extra heavy-duty, the Fastronix 300A Severe Duty Switch is a great choice. This switch can handle a massive 300A continuous and 2000A intermittent amperage. If you have an extremely powerful battery setup, you can be sure this switch will be up to the job.
For even more durability, this switch is IP67 rated and can withstand temperatures up to 185 degrees Fahrenheit!
- Amp rating: 300A continuous/2000A momentary
- Design: Remote rotary switch
- Installation: Wired remotely to the battery
Now You’ve Seen the Best Battery Disconnect Switches for any RV
RV battery disconnect switches come in a variety of styles, using metal levers, rotary knobs, or even remote controls. While some switches install directly on your RV battery, others let you install the switch elsewhere in a convenient location.
So there you have it! Whatever your needs, one of the switches on our list is sure to be the best battery disconnect switch for you.
Do you have a battery disconnect switch installed on your rig? Or after reading this, do you think you need to add one? Let us know in the comments.
I have had overheating problems with the screw type on the battery of toads etc. Changed to the knife type.
DON’T PURCHASE the AMPPER SWITCH from Amazon or anyone else. I installed the unit as shown, from Amazon on 2 different applications. While they appear to work well, the design and manufacture are flawed. In both cases intermittent current interruptions required replacement of both units with a simple blade type unit. Problem solved, no more issues.
I use knife type switches. They are simple, not expensive, they last, and work really well. Started out with the knob type, ha! Have spent minutes trying to hook one of those back up, which is why I now use the knife type – second or two to turn off, or turn on.
Not tried the others, as I consider them gadgets, and gadgets so often fail. But if they make you happy go for it. But I won’t.
We use the direct-to-battery knob style on multiple vehicles and generators at work. We’ve never had a problem
I can’t believe you overlooked “Blue Sea’s” selection of battery switches. My trailer has two batteries in parallel and two feeds from the batteries, one for the converter and another for the inverter. So I wired a Blue Sea — Off/ 1/ 2/ both with 1 the converter and 2 the inverter.
I consider it the best upgrade I’ve done.