Which is better - (3) 12v batteries vs (2) 6v batteries

Hi Steve,

Yes it is pure sine wave. It is a "throw away" if it breaks.

I don't like transfer switches. I use a system of male and female plugs which makes it dead simple to trouble shoot.

MPPT is a solar term. Nada to do with inverters.

steveexplorer wrote:
Thanks pianotuna. That seems like a great deal - a lot of wattage for the price. And it seems to be a true sine wave inverter?

steveexplorer wrote:
...

What is PSW vs. MPPT which I have been reading about here?

...

PSW vs. MSW: .

HTH;
John

Hi wa8,

I'm a little tired of the "not a clue" comment. Please refrain in future.

Three group 29 agms are 300 amp-hours, compared to 232 for twin six volts.

You can make the numbers work however you want.

My advice stands. Use what ever voltage gives the greatest number of amp-hours.

And although voltage drop is not as much of a problem with AGM format, 3 12's will exhibit less drop than 2 6's under heavy loads. In that case, the 3 group 24's would be a better choice. But then only a nut would use a group 24 if a group 29 would fit.

Personally I'd go flooded. But the OP has decided on AGM.

pianotuna wrote:
Hi,

If AGM is your choice then 3 12 volt jars would outperform 2 6 volt units. The chemistry is the same and so is the cycle depth. Wiring should be balanced as method #3 on the smartgauge site.

When I speak of folks who do not have a clue I am talking about you

3 12 volt Group 24 batteries is 210 amp hours

2 GC-2 Six volt batteries are 230, clearly the better performers.

Now if you are talking Group 31's then you are right.

But I have 12 volt jars in the 20 amp hour range lying about here (emergency and portable batteries) so your statement is made with way too little supporting info.

There are many 12 volt "jars" out there, different sizes, epically in AGM.. In the six volt sizes, there are as well, but very few are common with the GC-2 being the most common.. So you are fairly safe assuming a GC-2 (230 amp hour) for six volt.. But I've seen 250 amp hour six volt as well.

steveexplorer wrote:
...

What is PSW vs. MPPT which I have been reading about here?

...

PWM vs. TrakStar MPPT Technology.

Start on page 9 "PWM Over MPPT" for an overview.

HTH;
John

PSW is pure sine wave and pertains to the inverter output waveform. PSW is more like house power. MPPT pertains to solar charge controllers.

Thanks pianotuna. That seems like a great deal - a lot of wattage for the price. And it seems to be a true sine wave inverter?

What is PSW vs. MPPT which I have been reading about here?

Any leads or thoughts about a 3 way transfer switch so the inverter, generator and converter can all play well together?

Hi,

If AGM is your choice then 3 12 volt jars would outperform 2 6 volt units. The chemistry is the same and so is the cycle depth. Wiring should be balanced as method #3 on the smartgauge site.

The next issue would be sizing the inverter. It should be PSW if you plan on running any devices with motors. It should be 125% larger in wattage than the biggest load it will be required to power.

Currently the "best bang for the buck" is the Xantrex 2000 watt @ $355.00.

I have not been able to access this site until today, and apologize for seeming to disappear. But what a difference a week can make. The great input and sharing on this topic is highly appreciated. Thank you all so much for sharing the benefits of your experience.

Some asked more info regarding the OP. I should point out that I am not capable at this point to use a setup that involves much complexity. I feel challenged with all that I have to learn and I want to reduce maintenance as much as possible. I do not have the knowledge or skills to max out my setup, and feel it would be wise to stay with something basic and simple(r).

Thus, it seems to me that (2) 6v AGMs have the advantage of being the simpler and less complex way to go??

The major RV use is frequent boondocking. I would be powering lights, computer, cell phone recharging, TV, stereo, and an occasional power tool during the day. The power tool can be dispensed with if my batteries could not handle it, and/or I would resort to the generator. Fridge, cooking, heat, hot water are propane, and AC is generator.

Again, thanks so much for your great input and thoughts!!

BFL13, armed with an accurate voltmeter and accurate hydrometer a person can mix and match 15-year difference in age batteries. Yup. High antimony lead acid, with low antimony lead, acid, gel, AGM, NiMH, lithium. GANG 'EM. All pump on rope same same.

It's knowing they may pull on the rope OK but become homicidal maniacs when put into a dormitory for the night is the main thing. Same for the diet. Vegans will stick a knife in a carnivore if they see prime rib on their plate. You have to know to feed them differently, or suffer a massacre when you turn your back.

If you are willing to put up with all this, then I say "¡Andele!" In Spanish, this means the eqvt of "GO FOR IT!"