Safe and Secure: Best Practices for Storing Rock Lights

Rock lights are a popular addition to off-road vehicles such as Jeeps, trucks, and SUVs. These small, powerful LED lights are designed to be installed under a vehicle, illuminating the ground around the wheels and undercarriage. Not only do they look cool, but they also serve a practical purpose by providing additional lighting when driving off-road at night.

However, as with any vehicle accessory, it’s important to store rock lights safely and securely when they’re not in use. Improper storage can lead to damage, malfunction, or even safety risks when it’s time to install the lights again.

Clean and Dry Before Storage

Before storing your rock lights, it’s important to give them a thorough cleaning. This will ensure that any dirt, grime, or debris that accumulated during use is removed, preventing it from causing damage to the lights during storage.

To clean your rock lights, start by wiping them down with a damp cloth. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner if necessary, but be sure to avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the lights. After wiping them down, allow the lights to air dry completely before storing them.

Use a Protective Case

While rock lights are compact and easy to store, it’s still a good idea to use a protective case when storing them. This will help prevent any accidental damage that could occur during transportation or storage.

There are a variety of cases available specifically designed for storing rock lights. These cases typically have foam inserts that hold the lights securely in place, preventing them from shifting around and potentially causing damage.

If you don’t have a dedicated rock light storage case, you can also use a small toolbox or padded bag to store the lights. Just be sure to cushion the lights with towels or foam to prevent them from bouncing around inside the container.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place

When it comes to storing rock lights, the environment matters. It’s best to store your lights in a cool, dry place that is out of direct sunlight.

Exposure to heat and sunlight can cause the lights to overheat, potentially damaging the internal components. Additionally, storing them in a damp or humid environment can cause rust or other types of corrosion.

A good place to store your rock lights is in a garage or storage shed. If you don’t have access to a cool, dry space, consider using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in the storage area.

Disconnect the Battery

Most rock lights are powered by a separate battery that is connected to the vehicle’s electrical system. If you’re storing your vehicle for an extended period of time, it’s important to disconnect the battery to prevent it from draining.

When the battery is connected, even if the lights are turned off, there may still be a small amount of draw on the battery. Over time, this can cause the battery to become fully drained, potentially causing damage or even rendering it unusable.

To disconnect the battery, simply loosen the negative (black) cable and remove it from the battery post. Be sure to store the cable in a safe place where it won’t accidentally come into contact with the positive (red) cable or any metal surfaces.

Check the Lights Regularly

Even if your rock lights are stored properly, it’s still a good idea to check them periodically to ensure they’re in good working order.

This is especially important if you’re storing them for an extended period of time, as components can degrade over time even when not in use. Check for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as frayed wires or loose connections.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to test the lights periodically to ensure they’re working properly. This can be done by connecting the battery and turning on the lights. If you notice any issues, such as flickering or dimming, it may be time to replace the lights or make some repairs.

Storing rock lights safely and securely is essential to ensuring they stay in top working condition. By following these best practices, you can help prevent damage or malfunction and ensure that your rock lights are ready to go when it’s time to hit the off-road again.