Your propane (LP) detector will chirp when battery power is low as a warning. In a matter of 3-4 weeks, your propane detector will deplete your battery. And a depleted battery is not a good thing.
Some quick points about your R-POD's deep-cycle battery:
- Plugging-in your R-POD will charge your battery. It will take about 12 hours to fully charge. Topping-up the battery (the last 20%) takes the longest time, so plug it in for 12 hours even when it hasn't been used much. You may leave your R-POD plugged in for longer periods of time (indefinitely) without fear of overcharging or damaging your battery.
- Do not allow your battery to fall below a 50% charge. If you do, the battery's life will be dramatically shortened
- Always store your R-POD with a fully-charged battery. Disconnect the battery by removing the lead to either terminal if you won't be using your R-POD for more than 7 days. Your propane detector (and other accessories) will draw down your battery otherwise. Don't forget to turn off your television antenna booster.
By leaving your battery connected to your unused R-POD for over a month and allowing your battery to deplete, you've shortened its life and its storage capacity. However, there's still life in it and, with care, it will service you for another 2-3 years.
You may wish to consider adding a battery cutoff switch to your battery box. It makes disconnecting/reconnecting your battery much easier.