Advice on deep cycle setup?
Hello, I have a Safari van that I've converted into a camper. I replaced the starting battery with a Duracell Ultra Dual Purpose (Starting/Cycling) Battery that cost $105 (got it at batteries ...
Forum Discussion
MEXICOWANDERER wrote:
800 / 13.0 = 62 amp hours
Optimum 5 hours/day @200 watts = 76 amp hours
Looks good on the surface until charge efficiency factor and inverter loss enters the picture. And 5.0 hours a day theoretical may be possible at 5,000 ft altitude, on a clear day, near summer solstice.
SCENARIO. Battery charges all day with solar panels. When dinner is started the alternator keep the batteries 100.0% charged upon your arrival at home.
Batteries spend the night discharging for several hours at low values for hotel service. When you start the engine in the morning when there is inadequate sun for the panels, the alternator stuffs as much in as it can. Leaving the panels to do makeup charging.
A rational plan as long as hotel burden does not grow like a weed.
Hi Mex,
Thanks for the thoughts.
I do not have the inverter on overnight ... (not sure what "hotel service" means) ...
It sounds like the alternator change is critical (?).
If alternator keeps it charged during the cooking, do I need panels?
If so, what solar panel/s do you suggest?
L
