Is there any special way to store batteries for the winter?

"Red" Scholefield is pretty much the "word" when it comes to batteries in this hobby/industry. He runs a website called [link=http://www.rcbatteryclinic.com]www.rcbatteryclinic.com[/link] . He's got an article on his site dealing with storing batteries when not in use. That can be found here : [link]http://www.rcbatteryclinic.com/storage.html[/link] .

Luckily here in Oklahoma we never really have to shut down flying for the winter, so I really don't have to deal with storing batteries. But I usually replace my packs every year anyway. IMHO it's cheap insurance to save a plane.

Ken

Yes. You leave them in the plane and put skis on the bottom of this designated storage unit and fly it every chance you get.

Definately visit Red's site. I have a six foot w/12 outlet powerstrip plugged into a timer that I keep all my batteries and chargers plugged into year round. I hit them for 15 minues of charge every day, year round. Seems to have extended the "normal" life of my NiCads since I started this maybe three years ago. Of course, you still need to fully recharge them after every flight session. I still do a triple discharge/recharge routine about every three months and keep a log for each battery pack so I can tell when they are getting tired.

Leave the packs partically discharged.
Put them in a zip lock bag and put them in the vegetable bin of your fridge.
WHen you are ready to use them next season, then take them out and let them sit for a while to warm up.
charge or cycle a couple of times and you are ready to go.