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How do I tell if my Converter is charging the Batt - Event Date: 20 Apr 2025

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troutpodder View Drop Down
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    Posted: 20 Apr 2025 at 3:23pm
Hey All,

Question on how can I tell if my power panel is charging my batteries.  I have had a 2016 RPOD 186 for almost ten years. In the past, whenever I would plug in the camper to shore power, I would also hear a hum coming from the power panel which i have understood to be the panel charging the battery. And for years, plugging into shore power always resulted in the batteries getting charged to full. 

Now when i plug into shore power,  I am not hearing the panel humming. All the appliances work when plugged into shore power , the micro wave, the fridge, the ac.. they all work so the shore power connection is good. and when not plugged into shore, the lights, h20 heater and furnace switches and the fan work, so again, that all works as well.  The batteries are currently reading 2/3rds full. Might I be mis-remembering things and possibly the panel only charges the batteries when then are below a certain level BUT, i don't remember things like this ... I remember that regardless of the battery level (other than if they were full) the panel would be humming and charging when I plugged into shore power.

also, i checked all the fuses - all good and the breakers are all in on position. When i do plug into shore power, I do hear a beep but then that's it. The batteries are new, purchased them last year - good quality and they were kept on a battery tender for the winter and did not freeze and like I said, the lights etc all work when not plugged into shore power. 

I would appreciate any advice on how to determine if the panel is still functioning . I am not strong in my knowledge of electrical systems ... obviously! 

Thanks,
Troutpodder  
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jato View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Quote jato Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: 20 Apr 2025 at 8:02pm
Pick up a simple multi-tester or multi-meter at Harbor Freight.  Their cost is anywhere from $4-$10.  Place the red and black leads on your battery.  While hooked up to shore power you should read 13.5 volts or better.  Compare that to when you aren't hooked up to shore power.  What reading are you now getting on the battery?   This will be an indicator as to the health of your battery and also if the converter is charging your battery.  How old is your battery and how well have you maintained it?  Have you kept up on the electrolyte levels as well. 
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