RV Repair: RV Batteries, rv batteries, cleaning battery terminals

Question
Hello Bill
Since RV batteries can be explosive due to the gases given off, is it necessary to remove the AC shore power in order to disconnect the coach battery cables for clean up and service of terminals?
thnx

Answer
Hi:
Lead acid batteries produce hydrogen gas when charging and discharging. In an inclosed space the gas can collect and ignite with a spark. When you are hooked to shore power there usually is a battery charger running keeping the battery charge up. I would disconnect the shore power when cleaning battery terminals. If you have a small fan available I would also blow out the battery box/storage space before disconnecting.
Bill