Charging Low Batteries

[mr300ce]

I will be boondocking T-day weekend. So as NOT to run the genset alot, I am planning on purchasing a 1200w continuous power inverter to run the TV, DVD, and Laptop at night.

When the batteries get low enough that I need to charge them up again, (1) does the genset itself charge them,

or (2) does it just power the on-board converter/charger to do the job ???

Or (3) Should I also use a regular 10amp battery charger plugged into a 110v outlet on the MH during the genset operation??

If so, (4) will it charge the batteries quicker than just the genset running ??

(5) If answers to 3 & 4 are yes, then Will that work with out flipping switches or unplugging anything ??

[mfire1339]

mr300ce, My understanding is the converter is a charger also. Probably around 40amps. Generator powers it.

No need for additional charger.


Mike

[mr300ce]

Thanks. I thought I had read (in all these forums I'm on every nite) that the on-board converter/charger was too weak to charge up a very low battery, like after use with an inverter.

So I won't worry about it, and just let it do its charging thing when the genset (7K) is running (like during breakfast when microwave is being used).

I know the solar panel on top of the AC is a low output one to help keep the batteries topped up when sitting for long periods of no shore power, or not driving it.

[BryanL]

Do check your converter capabilities. If it does not support multiple stage charging and a maintenance mode that features a sulfation inhibiting technique (not just float or trickle), an upgrade to one that does is one of the best things you can do for your batteries. When used properly between trips, this will make sure you have your battery in optimum condition for the weekend outing.

An automotive or other independent battery charger may help but isn't really a good idea as a routine thing. They usually aren't designed with RV equipment in mind.

A ten amp charger is probably a bit small. A single 100 AH battery should have a 20 amp charger using bulk charge voltages (14.4 v for a 12v system).

Keep in mind that, to fully and completely charge a lead acid battery, you need to have a smart battery charger doing its thing for 8 to 12 hours. A bulk charge of only a couple of hours will get you up to 80% to 90% or so and that is OK for the short term outing but do be sure to get a full and complete charge on the battery when you get home to keep it in best condition.

[mr300ce]

I just put one of these Power Pulse devices on the batts.
Amazon.com: Pulsetech Powerpulse 12 Volt 735x012 Pp-12-l: Automotive

Sounds like it will work fine to keep batts at optimum performance.

I keep a digi-volt meter on the batts, and when I am on shore power, it reads 13.8v when I come in after work, then goes down thru the evening as I use various lights, heater, & other 12v items, etc.

Like right now, 13.3v. with a few lights on.