Community Forums

Old Scout · 01-24-2008, 06:46 AM

YUP--you are 100% correct--but I can "dream" can't I?

gator67 · 01-24-2008, 02:39 PM

takepride said: <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">I charged the batteries with the genset for 45 minutes (AGS) in the late morning and 45 minutes at night. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I seem to need to run the generator longer to charge my batteries, but I don't have AGM batteries. Also, my max charge rate is set to 75%. What do others have the "max charge rate" set to? I see in the book the default is 100% but I had a problem some time ago (which I believe has since been corrected) and it was recommended I reduce it.

Old Scout · 01-24-2008, 03:29 PM

One benefit of AGMs is a faster charge time--I think. Anyway, "my rule of thumb" with 6 wet cell [6v]bats--if you managed to run them down to 50% capacity[about 12.2v???](or approx 300 amp/hrs of 630 total capacity); then at 100 amp input [max charger], it would take approx 3 hrs to recover the bats. So unless you know the "exact" discharge state of your bats, the best you can do is run the genset/stay on shore power until you reach "float" stage on a three-stage charger. This may be too "farmer simple" an explanation but it gets this Wisconsin boy thru the day....

takepride · 01-24-2008, 09:16 PM

Jerry,

I have it set to the default max charge. On genset that was about 120 amps. I haven't had any problems (that I know of). I'm not an expert at this charging system, just learning by empirical evidence. I'm sure it'll cost me somehow.

I too, use the charge it till it floats theory.

takepride · 01-24-2008, 09:28 PM

Dale,

Thanks for the links. Though I need to point out that the first two (Xantrex Link 10 and Link 20) are not compatible with the RS or MS inverter chargers. Only the Xantrex Battery Monitor seems to work.

It does seem to have a bar graph like Old Scout wants. It also measures temperatures with an accessory probe. With it's history information, you could really watch the gradual degradation of your battery bank. Of course it might allow you to forestall its demise a bit.

I'm not sure if I care for the computer software that allows me to over-analyze their efficiency. Maybe the engineering types would enjoy it.

Old Scout · 01-25-2008, 05:14 AM

Actually, I got the idea of a bar graph display from the Xantrex advertising/tech data that shows this as feature. However, I cant find the functionality on the control panel for the RS/MS inverters--not an option based on all the reasons previously stated about measuring/displaying real-time bat charge status?? Xantrex customer service is a bit busy/Techie for my taste but I may call them one of these days.....

takepride · 01-31-2008, 09:05 PM

I received a couple pointers from Xantrex:

1. Since AGM batteries are pricey, you should let the charger carry them into float status when on shorepower. When on genset you can conserve diesel if necessary by ending with absorb, though carrying through to float will still benefit the battery life. (See below.)

2. Charge at 100% unless you are maxing out your air conditioners

3. If you have 100 watts or more of solar, they will carry your batteries into float quite handily. Though not as fast as shorepower it is very efficient, especially when boondocking. 350-450 watts will obviate charging with the genset, though the microwave or residential reefer can cancel them out with extensive use. (My experience shows the reefer hasn't been an issue.)

4. Parasitic loads are big in the Alpine, chase them down.

Hope these help.