House battery readout on panel

[gdsterrett]

We have an 05 Holiday Rambler Admiral. I am checking things out and noticed on the control panel that everything reads as usual except the house battery voltage. Chassis battery reads what I think it should, tank levels read as they should, slides work, everything reads as usual except house batteries. I unplugged MH from shore line and still have lights, put a slide out. Could I be so lucky as just the readout doesn't work? Checked water level in batteries and they are good. they are not down. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated. Getting ready for a few summer week long getaways after our wonderful Indiana winter! Thanks, Dan

[tenbear]

I assume you are looking at the idiot lights to determine your battery voltage. These are notoriously lousy. Get yourself a voltmeter and measure the voltage. Everyone should have a multimeter and know how to use it. I think I paid about $5 for one on eBay.

Many of us have installed a voltmeter, or/and other meters, for a more accurate battery monitor.

[MEXICOWANDERER]

Well, your temperarure's normal...

Looks like you do not have a broken leg...

An amp hour meter (remember the one I posted here for 39 dollars?) Is the only way that's reasonbly accurate.

"Gotta go start the generator - lights don't work" is not the preferred way to enjoy a vacation. With the NORMAL two to three tenths of a volt error original equipment battery "monitors" are a cruel joke.

[jrnymn7]

I generally refrain from telling folks what voltage equals what % soc. For example, 12.37v on my bank is more like 65%, as opposed to 75%... a difference of over 40 Amp hours. Moreover, charging voltages effect the resulting resting OCV. It's all very battery specific. The OP needs to become familiar with his own system.

[MNtundraRet]

You did not say what the reading was. 3/4 full would be 75% charge or 12.37 volts read at the battery terminals.

Based on the multimeter reading versus the MH monitor reading you will then know if the monitor reads : low, corrrect, or high. The error should be consistant over time. I know mine reads "high " which is the worst condition.

I would rather know ahead of time with a consistant low battery monitor reading if not accurate. My past trailer read that way.

[jrnymn7]

While you were checking water levels, you could have checked Specific Gravity and Resting Open Circuit Voltage. All you need is a Digital Volt Meter and a (turkey baster style) Hydrometer.

What did the remote meter say your battery voltage was?

At what voltages do you charge your bank?

[RWDIII]

Get one of these Free at Harbor Frieght with coupon.
Installed with HD velcro

[Dakota98]

If you want to know the REAL status of the house batteries, do not rely upon the control panel.

At minimum, get a decent led or analog volt meter. At best get a Trimetric meter.