Dangers of Battery Outgassing?

[Ward H]

My O'day 25 has one battery in the lazarett. I am planning on replacing the original DC breaker panel with a new Blue Sea panel. The original panel is on the bulkhead under the companion way and the back of the panel is between the bulkhead and bridge deck wall. It is open into the lazarett. Next to the panel will be a new battery switch. The battery is about 5 to 6 feet from the DC panel.

The Blue Sea instructions caution that the breakers are not ignition protected and should not be mounted where combustible vapors may be present.

Should I be concerned about the location of the panel being in the same open location the battery is in?

Should add that I have an outboard with fuel locker so that is not an issue.

 

[Benny17441]

I think the main concern is fuel vapors which in high concentrations can be explosive. If the batteries are in good shape they should not be gassing much and 5 to 6 ft seems like an adequate distance allowing for gases to dissipate before reaching the panel. The locker lids are not sealed. Now if the batteries start acting up and not holding charge look for excessive gassing. Chances are you will be compelled to replace the batteries prior to gassing becoming a problem. Have seen similar setups in different boats over the years with no apparent problems.

 

[Bill Roosa]

You can't plan on the batteries being in good shape. Over time this is not a great assumption. Assume they will outgas (equlization charging!!!) at some time and design for it. With that said you are dealing with hydrogen gas. It disperses very rapidly if there is any ventilation at all. 5 feet is plenty of room unless the locker is airtight.