12 volt batteries
I have a deep cell 12 volt battery in my fifth wheel. I also have a spare 12 volt deep cell battery. If I connect them in unison will I have twice as much stand by power for boondocking?
Forum Discussion
- A single group 24, even a group 27 battery is not much. Best to do the research & pack as much amperage in as space permits. This could mean a couple of group 27s, a pair of group 31s, a single 4D or even a single 8D.
Generally speaking, the fewer connections the better, hence the 4D or 8D. - I agree that a selector switch (using one battery at a time) makes sense.
- IMHO two batts separated by a switch may provide better service.
A dense plate 29F deep cycle has a horrendous amount of amp draw time.
We have 2 batts in the coach.
The lower amp battery is for nighty night use when needs are less.
The hefty battery is for day use when the water pump, fan, awning...etc may see higher use.
We'll invest in another MAXX 29 deep cycle here shortly, well worth the $109.00 tag. - Hi,
If they are the same size two will last more than twice as long as one. Google Peukert. Or surf here:
Peukert
This is what is balanced and best for twin twelve volt batteries.
As it often doesn't cost a dime more to do this, I think it is worth the trouble.
If you wish to understand the "why" surf here:
correctly interconnecting multiple twelve volt batteries
Others may say it doesn't matter--but unless there is a compelling reason to not optimize charging and discharging why not do it the best possible way? - yes
- If in unison mean PARALLEL YES...
It should hook up somthing like this...
The only draw back is when charging. If the batteries are not like batteies and about the same age then they may charge different. They may also tend to balance over both batteries and this usually brings the newest battery down to the life term of the older battery.
Most folks like to have the two batteries the same make and age to get the best performance out of them...
just my thoughts
Roy Ken
