Constant Power - Use

[gklehner]

A few more questions for the experienced folks.

I keep my '97 class C Gulfstream plugged into my house power. Have done this for almost a year now. It has been my "disability - retirement" putter project for interior work, painting, and all the bits and pieces (bought it due to excellent mechanical maintenance performed). Other than cosmetics, all systems work. My concern is that during this reconditioning phase I my be allowing something to deteriorate.

Are there any issues with keeping it plugged to shore power? I check the battery monthly (water, charge).

Should I keep the fridge running or turn off?

Other than during monthly run of the generator (1/2 hour) I do not operate the AC. I think that is sufficient for these roof mount - Coleman - units?

Water heater and furnace get a once a month run basically to full heat up.

I move the RV once a month just to change tire position and run the engine.

We plan on significant use of this hopefully fully reconditioned RV in 2012 with cross country trips. Any advice on my "storage" method that may prevent an oops when getting it on the road??

Thanks for your input - I will always have questions!

[King Richard]

I would recommend putting covers on all tires. Guard everything you can from mother nature, just like us, things just age. Best wishes on your successful use, sounds like you are doing a lot of the right things.

[ahicks]

I would fire up the refer (on gas or elec) for the same reason you're firing up the furnace. It assures you that you're minimizing moisture in areas prone to rusting? I doubt there's any other advantage. Sounds like you have the rest of it down pat. Best of luck on your project!

[paz]

It sounds like you are keeping things well exercised during storage. There is no problem keeping the rig plugged in all the time IF you have a 3-stage converter/charger or inverter/charger. The 3-stage charger, if operating properly, should not overcharge the batteries. However, with an older Class C, I suspect you have a single-stage charger which charges the battery(ies) at a constant voltage which could overcharge the battery(ies). If that is the case, driving the rig once a month should keep the batteries charged, so I would consider not leaving it plugged in all the time. If you do leave it plugged in, make sure you keep checking the water level in the batteries at least monthly as you are doing.

[Gary RVRoamer]

If you were fulltime living in it, it would be plugged in and all appliances in continuous use, so why not at home while puttering around?

If you don't have a quality 3-stage charger, be sure to check those batteries regularly for water level, excess heat, etc. Some of those old style chargers can raise cain with a battery if left at it too long.

[gklehner]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gary RVRoamer If you were fulltime living in it, it would be plugged in and all appliances in continuous use, so why not at home while puttering around? If you don't have a quality 3-stage charger, be sure to check those batteries regularly for water level, excess heat, etc. Some of those old style chargers can raise cain with a battery if left at it too long.

Now that just makes too much sense - if fulltime living would be plugged in all the time. Point well taken!

Seems I am lucky, do have a 3-stage charger. Another lesson learned. Most appreciated input on this from you and paz.

[monkey]

How do you tell if you have a "3 stage charger" ???? I do seem to have all the manuals on our mh....

[Dr4Film]

My Trace RV2012 Inverter/Converter has 3 stages of charging. Bulk, Absorption and Float, in that order.

The manuals are available on the Internet.

Dr4Film ----- Richard