Battery Question
I would like to know if I should shut my coach batteries off when hooked to Shore Power?
Forum Discussion
1. IF you have an Inverter/Charger, you CANNOT and it will NOT disconnect the batteries when you turn the Batteries ON or OFF. Correctly installed Inverter/Chargers are wired DIRECT to the Coach batteries. WHY? Because the AMP DRAW can be larger when Inverting than most Battery Disconnect solenoids can take. The most common Battery disconnect solenoid is rated at 100 amps DC. The "Big Boy" type battery disconnect (very rare and usually on hi end motorhomes) is rated at 200 amps DC. On moderate to heavy loads the current draw when inverting can exceed 200 amps.
2. You do NOT want an Inverter/Charger to attempt to charge with NO battery connected.
3. There are various CONVERTER designs. BUT, the simple fact is, you WANT a Load(Battery) to help regulate the Converter 12 volt dc output. Even having a BAD battery is better than NO battery to help the Power Converter operate at its peak efficiency.
4. If you have the type Power Converter that has an accessable 120 power cord and plugs in(stand alone type Converter), install a simple plug in 120 timer on that cord and have it run 12 hours a day. That will help stop battery overcharging or boiling dry.
5. The other Plain Fact is, RV Coach batteries NEED tender care and constant monitoring(weekly). No different than checking your tire pressure or Coolant or Oil. Taking diligent care of your Coach batteries will yield years of service.
6. There are some Power Converters that can operate with no battery, but I would rather have them connected to my batteries. Doug
2. You do NOT want an Inverter/Charger to attempt to charge with NO battery connected.
3. There are various CONVERTER designs. BUT, the simple fact is, you WANT a Load(Battery) to help regulate the Converter 12 volt dc output. Even having a BAD battery is better than NO battery to help the Power Converter operate at its peak efficiency.
4. If you have the type Power Converter that has an accessable 120 power cord and plugs in(stand alone type Converter), install a simple plug in 120 timer on that cord and have it run 12 hours a day. That will help stop battery overcharging or boiling dry.
5. The other Plain Fact is, RV Coach batteries NEED tender care and constant monitoring(weekly). No different than checking your tire pressure or Coolant or Oil. Taking diligent care of your Coach batteries will yield years of service.
6. There are some Power Converters that can operate with no battery, but I would rather have them connected to my batteries. Doug
