Forum Discussion
valhalla360
Aug 18, 2020Navigator
So what is the goal of setting up a 24v system...if you aren't using 24v for all the DC loads?
24v systems are becoming more common on large yachts but that is because they have high wattage devices that are a long way from the battery bank and the voltage drop due to high amperage becomes a problem (Ex: Anchor winch might be 40-50ft of cable from battery to winch and a small winch might draw 250amp. By increasing the voltage to 24v, that drops to 125amp. They also may have electric sail winches, bow thrusters and other high wattage devices drawing hundreds of amps at 12v
By comparison, a slide out motor might draw 30amps and that's one of the bigger DC loads on an RV.
24v systems are becoming more common on large yachts but that is because they have high wattage devices that are a long way from the battery bank and the voltage drop due to high amperage becomes a problem (Ex: Anchor winch might be 40-50ft of cable from battery to winch and a small winch might draw 250amp. By increasing the voltage to 24v, that drops to 125amp. They also may have electric sail winches, bow thrusters and other high wattage devices drawing hundreds of amps at 12v
By comparison, a slide out motor might draw 30amps and that's one of the bigger DC loads on an RV.
About Technical Issues
Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,369 PostsLatest Activity: Mar 12, 2026