Last Updated on February 1, 2022 by Ron Barkley
Although not that popular among car owners, a battery disconnect switch is the best way to prevent battery drains, malfunctions, fires, and car theft. Disconnect switches are mostly used on RVs and boats. Some people use them on their cars to make sure the battery does not run into any problems while the car is parked or stored.
If you are looking for a battery disconnect switch, you must be dealing with some drainage and power loss. Well, now is the time to solve that problem. Here are the 3 best battery disconnect switches.
Check out the buying guide at the end if you want to find out more about disconnect switches and how to install them. Let’s get started with the list.
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Best Battery Disconnect Switch Comparison Table
| Product | Features | Check Out The Price |
|---|---|---|
  | - High Current - 12 V & 24 V - Heavy-Duty Body - Face Plate | Fastronix Solutions Master Battery Disconnect Switch Kit |
  | - 12 V - 48 V - ABS Plastic Housing - Multiple Applications - Convenient | Ampper Master Battery Switch |
  | - 12 V - 24 V Batteries - Heavy Duty - Wide Application - Aluminum Housing | Ampper 12-24V Master Battery Disconnect Switch |
Best Overall
Fastronix Solutions Master Battery Disconnect Switch Kit
Highlighted Features
- High Current
- 12 V & 24 V
- Heavy-Duty Body
- Face Plate
- On/Off Positions
Our top recommendation comes from Fastronix Solutions. A simple, yet brilliant product, the Master Battery Disconnect Switch Kit. A top seller, professional-grade product that you will definitely like. Slightly expensive for a battery disconnect switch though.
High-quality construction, durable, and made to last. Featuring a heavy-duty metal case and heavy-duty handle. The internal components are not exposed and are protected from harsh conditions that may come with stored vehicles. Includes a black face plate with clear “On” and “Off” positions.
Features safety precautions, the handle is spring-loaded. This stops the handle from turning to the “On” position incidentally. The handle also makes a clicking sound when it’s turned to a position to let the user know. It has a heavy-duty heat sink to prevent any fires or overheating.
Two mounting configurations are available, a think panel, and a thick panel. The thin panel has a maximum thickness of 1/4 inches, the thick one has a max thickness of 5/8 inches. It has copper lugs and rubber terminal insulators. These components protect against any fires.
A favorite among owners of recreational vehicles, Fastronix Solutions battery disconnect switch. If you want the absolute best, this should be the first product you consider. The only bad thing about it is the price. You can find switches that are a lot cheaper.
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction, metal case, and handle.
- Thermal protection with heat sink and insulators.
- Professional-grade disconnect switch.
Cons
- Expensive compared to other products.
- Not weatherproof.
Best Budget
Ampper Master Battery Switch
Highlighted Features
- 12 V – 48 V
- ABS Plastic Housing
- On/Off Positions
- Multiple Applications
- Convenient
A budget option from Ampper. A brand that offers a variety of top-notch battery disconnect switch products. This item is one of their options that are affordable to a wider audience. Nonetheless, this heavy-duty disconnect switch works very well and does its purpose effectively.
Featuring heavy-duty construction. The housing is made with ABS plastic. Durable, specifically designed for maximum safety. There is a rear cover that protects from short circuits, it insulates the terminals. It can be used as a standalone switch or combined with other switches.
It’s compatible with 12 V, 24 V, and 48 V batteries. A wide array of applications, perfect for cars, RVs, trucks, SUVs, vans, boats. It disconnects the power from the battery and eliminates any drains while the vehicle is not being used.
A universal battery disconnect switch, easy and intuitive installation. It has two copper terminal studs with a size of 3/8 inches( 10 mm). Set into place with four sets of bolts. Protection against dust with a side pad that’s dustproof.
That was the least expensive item on this list. Just as good as the others. The only disadvantage to it is the plastic housing. Most top-grade disconnect switch products have a metal housing instead of a thermoplastic one.
Pros
- Durable and safe to use.
- Heavy-duty construction for harsh conditions.
- Convenient to use and install.
Cons
- ABS plastic housing instead of metal.
Best Runner-Up
Ampper 12-24V Master Battery Disconnect Switch
Highlighted Features
- 12 V – 24 V Batteries
- Heavy Duty
- Wide Application
- Easy To Install
- Aluminum Housing
The Ampper store offers one of the most reliable switches. This multi-purpose 12 V-24 V battery disconnect switch is our second to the top choice. Highly recommended if you are looking for an affordable and reliable battery disconnect switch.
Featuring heavy-duty construction. Made to last, a durable disconnect switch that won’t fail or break down. Built with aluminum, its housing is all aluminum. Resistant to rust, the switch will perform and last even in harsh conditions.
It offers a wide array of applications. It can be used on cars, RVs, boats, SUVs, and trucks. Features two operations, “On” and “Off” positions. It’s compatible with 12 V and 24 V batteries, 200 A continues at DC 12 V, and 400 A momentary at DC 12V.
Simple and easy to install, requires no beforehand knowledge. The face plate mounts in a 3/4″ hole. The two copper terminal studs have a size of 3/8 inches. It can be used as a solo switch or it can be combined with other switches.
This is our second-best recommendation yet it’s just as affordable as the other items on this list. A reliable and durable disconnect switch that most car owners can afford.
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction, aluminum housing.
- Affordable price.
- Wide application, compatible with 12 V & 24 V.
Cons
- Not weatherproof.
Best Battery Disconnect Switch – Buying Guide
As already mentioned, these products are not that popular among car owners. In fact, many car owners haven’t even heard of a battery disconnect switch. People usually find out about these things when they have a need from them.
That must be the case for some of you too. Here’s a buying so you can find out more about what a battery disconnect switch is and how to choose the right product.
What Is The Purpose Of A Disconnect Switch
A battery disconnect switch is used to prevent residual power loss and battery malfunctions while the vehicle is not being used. Some car owners deal with battery drains while the car is off. The disconnect switch cuts off the battery from the electrical components. That way, the power drain is eliminated.
Recreational vehicles and vehicles that are stored for extended periods deal with residual power loss. A stored battery will eventually die if it’s not used. A battery disconnect switch protects from that residual power loss.
When Should You Use A Battery Disconnect Switch
Using a battery disconnect switch is a good idea no matter the circumstances. Even if you are not dealing with a power drain, the disconnect switch will protect the battery from any malfunctions.
Furthermore, a disconnect switch can protect from theft. If someone gets ahold of your car keys, they won’t be able to get in the car if there is no power in the battery.
With that being said, let’s see what to look for when buying a battery disconnect switch.
Heavy-Duty Construction
Adding a component like a disconnect switch is a good idea as long as the switch is safe to use. Stored vehicles are not always stored in perfect conditions. Harsh conditions can ruin the disconnect switch which can lead to short-circuiting.
Housing that can endure harsh conditions is the most important thing to look for when buying a disconnect switch. Although the switch is very useful, if it’s not durable, it will do more harm than help.
Insulators for the terminals are also a good thing to have. The insulators will prevent any shocks, fires, and short-circuits.
Compatability
Another thing to consider is the compatibility of the disconnect switch. This depends on what vehicle you are buying the switch for. Cars have 12 V batteries, trucks and vans have 24 V batteries. You should buy a product that is compatible with your type of battery.
If you have a 24 V battery, but something that is compatible with 24 V batteries. Most disconnect switches are compatible both for 12 V and 24 V batteries. You should still make sure of the compatibility, however.
On/Off Positions
The last feature you want in a disconnect switch is a face plate with clear “On” and “Off” positions. This may seem irrelevant at first but it’s useful quite a lot. The thing is, you want to be sure that the disconnect switch is activated.
Sometimes you may not turn the switch all the way, so the battery will still be connected with the power system. Also, some switches that are not spring-loaded will accidentally turn to the unwanted position.
If there is a face plate with the positions, you always will be able to tell whether the switch is on or off.
Related Questions And Other FAQs
Should A Battery Disconnect Be On Positive Or Negative
It depends on the type of disconnect switch. Some battery disconnect switch products are installed on the positive terminal, some on the negative terminal. Check the installation manual to find out where to install the switch.
Do Battery Disconnect Switches Work
Yes, battery disconnect switches are very effective at preventing power drains and residual power loss. These components also prevent battery malfunctions and theft.
How Does A Battery Shut Off Switch Work
A battery disconnect switch cuts off the battery from the electrical system in the vehicle. They have copper rods that are able to cut off the power.
