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Topic ClosedBattery Charging - Event Date: 08 Feb 2017 - 08 Apr 2017

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Mikefitz View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Calendar Event: Battery Charging
    Posted: 08 Feb 2017 at 1:53pm
I'm new to the RV world with a new rpod 179. We are currently adding a generator mounted on a Stromberg tray on the front. I swapped out the single battery for two deep cell batteries. I was wondering if it is best to charge the batteries through the converter or should I use an independent charger attached directly to the batteries.   I really appreciate any help.
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StephenH View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 08 Feb 2017 at 1:56pm
Use the converter. It will work just fine and will control the rate of charge. Does your generator have a 12V outlet? If so, you could connect directly, but that would not be controlled. It would be good to add power to the battery quickly, but one would need to monitor it more closely to avoid boiling the batteries.
StephenH
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ouR escaPOD mods
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CharlieM View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 08 Feb 2017 at 2:12pm
Originally posted by StephenH

Use the converter. It will work just fine and will control the rate of charge. Does your generator have a 12V outlet? If so, you could connect directly, but that would not be controlled. It would be good to add power to the battery quickly, but one would need to monitor it more closely to avoid boiling the batteries.

Not necessarily. For example, the popular Honda EU2000i has a 12V output rated at 8A (96W). In contrast the onboard converter can put out more than 30A at 14V (420W) depending on battery state of charge and wire size. Using the onboard converter is always better than the generator's 12V output. StephenH's other points about regulation and overcharging are very valid.
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StephenH View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 08 Feb 2017 at 2:15pm
Thanks for the correction.
StephenH
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ouR escaPOD mods
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mcarter View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 08 Feb 2017 at 5:03pm
Just to clarify, I have a Generac IX 2000, believe SH does too. That 12 volt charge circuit is NOT controlled. I actually took it to have it repaired because it read 18 volts prior to hook up to a battery. Probably part of reason for difference in price between Honda and Generac. I agree on board is better.
Mike Carter
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mcarter View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 08 Feb 2017 at 5:21pm
Personally, and I know this doesn't fit everyone's capabilities. I had a 30 amp RV circuit added to my out building. I keep the POD on shore power 24/7. I turn off all the unneeded power. I heat it to 55-60 degrees, and have a DC monitor circuit to see what batt voltage is. It hangs around 13.1 volts. It doesn't get cold enough in northern TN to do anymore than use air pressure to clear water lines. The on board system keeps everything maintained and I use the Pod for invited guests and a place to hang out when I'm at the building. In spring I'll sanitize, flush the tanks, do maintenance to wheels and ready to roll.
Mike Carter
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Podster View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 08 Feb 2017 at 5:55pm
If shore power is available I would use the on-board converter / charger. 
Cliff & Raelynn
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john in idaho View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 08 Feb 2017 at 6:49pm
Remember to check the water.  I keep a jug of distilled water and a turkey baster in the barn and look in the batteries every 3months - at least that is what I should do.  Mine are hooked up to the onboard charger all the time.
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Mikefitz View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 08 Feb 2017 at 7:41pm
I want to thank everyone for your input. I had it all wrong and I'm really glad I asked. Thanks everyone.
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ScottHouchens View Drop Down
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Direct Link To This Post Posted: 09 Feb 2017 at 11:19pm
I think converter will be best choice.
Scott L Houchens
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