12v or 2 6v batteries?
We're buying a Lance 1685 Travel Trailer. The dealership is including one 12v battery. We're buying two Yamaha 2000 generators but thinking we'll still want another battery. Do we buy another 12v or t...
Forum Discussion
Hi j-d,
Here is why 12 volt jars don't "make friends":
This is what is balanced and best for twin twelve volt batteries.
As it often doesn't cost a dime more to do this, I think it is worth the trouble.
If you wish to understand the "why" surf here:
correctly interconnecting multiple twelve volt batteries
Others may say it doesn't matter--but unless there is a compelling reason to not optimize charging and discharging why not do it the best possible way?
Here is a video of 3 twelve volt batteries that have been wired in an unbalanced manner for 2 years. They have been equalized. The test shows how CCA has been adversely affected.
unbalanced for 2 years
Here is why 12 volt jars don't "make friends":
This is what is balanced and best for twin twelve volt batteries.
As it often doesn't cost a dime more to do this, I think it is worth the trouble.
If you wish to understand the "why" surf here:
correctly interconnecting multiple twelve volt batteries
Others may say it doesn't matter--but unless there is a compelling reason to not optimize charging and discharging why not do it the best possible way?
Here is a video of 3 twelve volt batteries that have been wired in an unbalanced manner for 2 years. They have been equalized. The test shows how CCA has been adversely affected.
unbalanced for 2 years
j-d wrote:
For some reasons 12's don't make friends as well in sets as the 6's do. I can't say I understand why from a technical standpoint, but I've come to believe it. We had 2x12 and went to just one. We don't boondock so no big deal, but as far as the batteries "lasting" in terms of months before replacement, one 12 lasts several years. With two it seems we were always replacing one of them.
