Bob, while the solar panels should theoretically keep a charge on the batteries, unless you have a charge controller on them, I would remove them  and bring them inside for the winter on a float charger. If you're using a single charger for the two, I would put a charge isolator between them, other wise if one battery is weaker than the other, it will draw down the higher charged battery. Also, if they are wet cell batteries, be sure the electrolyte is level in all cells. Old school practice was to place the batteries on blocks if you are on a concrete floor eg basement/garage, but most battery information seems in agreement that modern batteries are not subject to draw down due to cold floors. I put mine on a couple of short 2x4 boards just the same. (I didn't have to bend over as far to service the cells!  (LOL!)

-----Original Message-----
From: Bob Garrant <bgarrant at gmail.com> 
Sent: Tuesday, October 27, 2026 8:31 AM
To: The Rhodes 22 Email List <rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org>
Subject: [Rhodes22-list] Does removing batteries affect the solar panels

I have two solar panels that charge two deep cycle batteries.
I would like to:
- remove the batteries and trickle charge them over the winter
- tarp the boat for the winter

Normally I left the batteries in the boat and did not tarp it to let the solar panels charge the batteries.

Any issues with that?

Thanks
Bob Garrant
s/v Sail la Vie
Kent Island, MD