Forum Discussion
jrnymn7
Jan 02, 2015Explorer
Just to clarify, I am not saying Ah monitors are the 'end all, be all' of battery monitoring and maintenance. But I am saying they can be very useful in establishing one's charging needs and performance. Mex has pointed out that the OP's needs must first be established, and I agree. I also believe suggesting more batteries, more solar, or more whatever, is a bass-ackwards approach to the situation.
Indeed, the OP needs to get something closer to real deep cycles, such as a pair of 6's, this much is clear. But the size of bank required is yet to be established. And he will likely need more solar; but again, that has not been established. It seems if one takes into account the OP's rough usage, location, and equipment (which may or may not be performing up to its potential), he may only need to make some minor improvements. Maybe the panels are fine, but need bigger cable, for example. Maybe the converter is performing intermittently, and needs replacement. Who knows? But first the OP needs to establish his needs, and work from there.
Does he use a microwave? If so, I would suggest a larger bank. Does he care about running the gennie for countless hours? If not, I suggest he doesn't park anywhere near me :) Does he plan on doing some long term boondocking? If so, he should consider the need to keep the batts at near full at all times. I know I'm preaching to the choir here, but it appears these things bear repeating.
Indeed, the OP needs to get something closer to real deep cycles, such as a pair of 6's, this much is clear. But the size of bank required is yet to be established. And he will likely need more solar; but again, that has not been established. It seems if one takes into account the OP's rough usage, location, and equipment (which may or may not be performing up to its potential), he may only need to make some minor improvements. Maybe the panels are fine, but need bigger cable, for example. Maybe the converter is performing intermittently, and needs replacement. Who knows? But first the OP needs to establish his needs, and work from there.
Does he use a microwave? If so, I would suggest a larger bank. Does he care about running the gennie for countless hours? If not, I suggest he doesn't park anywhere near me :) Does he plan on doing some long term boondocking? If so, he should consider the need to keep the batts at near full at all times. I know I'm preaching to the choir here, but it appears these things bear repeating.
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