Padlin wrote:
Going into Float voltage (13.7), doesn't necessarily mean the batteries are fully charged. Would suggest you check the actual state of charge when it goes into float, or at some point shortly thereafter. I'd disconnect one of the battery cables and let it sit unused for a day. Then use your hydrometer.
Another thought, try turning off all the loads in the trailer before you check for the State Of Charge as indicated by the GoPower. The GoPower converts the voltage level to the percentage you see, not all that accurate. If there is a load the voltage will be lower then it really is.
The GoPower manual is pretty lousy.
FWIW, I use about 10A a day depending on if I need the furnace.
I couldn't agree more about the Go Power manual. And, I have spoken with their Tech Support guys several times and have even received conflicting information. The way I'm determining that it's in float stage is when the controller's outputted amps go down to less than 1 and there's still full sun. During charging, the Go Power voltage and SOC % readings are useless as it measures the voltage output of the controller, not the voltage of the battery. Only at night does it supposedly report battery SOC and, yes, other loads would affect those readings.
Last night after sundown, I ran my bedroom slide in and out to make sure any surface charge was removed from my battery. I didn't let it sit for a day, but I did test again with the hydrometer and it was still reporting full. I should receive my amp meter today. I'll turn everything on to simulate dry camping (fridge, water heater, water pump, etc.) and measure current flow.
