Where should I connect my main battery switch?

The main battery switch should be connected directly after the main fuse, viewed from the consumer battery.

In most cases, a main switch is not needed in the charging circuit, only for the consumers. A main switch in the charging circuit risks introducing voltage drop and can damage the alternator if it is switched off while the engine is running.

We therefore recommend that any main switches be installed between the positive side of the service battery bank and the distribution block/electrical panel.

Keep in mind that some equipment on board should not be connected through a main switch. For example, a heater, as it has its own shutdown procedure that must not be interrupted abruptly.

You may also not want the refrigerator on the main switch if you are only leaving the boat for a short period and want to keep food in the fridge. In that case, it is advantageous to install a separate inline fuse and switch on that cable.