Why solenoid?
Why do the majority of RV manufacturers use a latching solenoid for the battery disconnect (storage) as opposed to a mechanical battery disconnect switch? Is there some other function that the sol...
Forum Discussion
AS other have mentioned, There are 2 types. LATCHING relay(soelnoid) takes current to engage and disengage, but once either is done it requires NO current to keep closed or open. Yes, this type system is more expensive, which you usually only see it on Motorized due to access to the battery banks. The other requires continuous 12 volts to keep engaged. These types are cheap because all you need is a simple ON/OFF switch. Also these type solenoids also build up heat when you have a load and constant power to them to keep closed.
COST? Well, when you factor in the cost of most Motorized and the fact that RVer's want bells and whistles, they make it standard. Now, the drawbacks to Latching type. Some OEM's do NOT run all Coach 12 volt loads thru the disconnect. Some, wire the CO and LP detectors direct to the batteries for liability reasons. So, with Batteries OFF, they can still be drained in 2 to 4 weeks. Inverter/Chargers are NEVER wired thru a Latching disconnect and are wired direct to the Coach batteries. Doug
COST? Well, when you factor in the cost of most Motorized and the fact that RVer's want bells and whistles, they make it standard. Now, the drawbacks to Latching type. Some OEM's do NOT run all Coach 12 volt loads thru the disconnect. Some, wire the CO and LP detectors direct to the batteries for liability reasons. So, with Batteries OFF, they can still be drained in 2 to 4 weeks. Inverter/Chargers are NEVER wired thru a Latching disconnect and are wired direct to the Coach batteries. Doug
