Podmods, Maintenance, Tips and Tricks: Converter/Charger. Any Good? Battery Maintenance

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Converter/Charger. Any Good? Battery Maintenance

Printed From: R-pod Owners Forum
Category: R-pod Discussion Forums
Forum Name: Podmods, Maintenance, Tips and Tricks
Forum Discription: Ask maintenance questions, share your podmods (modifications) and helpful tips
URL: http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=8548
Printed Date: 25 Jun 2025 at 7:40am
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Topic: Converter/Charger. Any Good? Battery Maintenance

Posted By: Bovine0001
Subject: Converter/Charger. Any Good? Battery Maintenance
Date Posted: 08 Aug 2016 at 12:16pm

Hello all,

Before I upgrade my battery system (golf carts!!), I want to know how to keep them maintained.

First off, is the converter/charger with the RPod any good?

2nd, should I keep the battery topped up with a floating charge all year long? I read so much about folks installing switches into the battery line to disconnect the load and then charge it up the night before they take their RPod out. Which is the right way?

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2014 Rpod 178
Mods in Order:
1: Added USB charging port
2: Added Spigot at Fresh Water to make easy empty
3: Solar Panel
4: Cut dinette bench panel to improve access underneath

Replies:

Posted By: furpod
Date Posted: 08 Aug 2016 at 1:03pm

The converter charger in the pod is just fine, it is a 3 stage unit. You can leave the pod plugged in all year. Many do. Check the water every 90 days or so, top off if needed.

People who add a cut off are usually people who cannot keep the pod plugged in at their storage location. If not disconnected, the pod has "phantom" draws that will kill the battery in a couple weeks. Bad for the battery.

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Posted By: Bovine0001
Date Posted: 08 Aug 2016 at 1:35pm

Cool. That's what I hoped for.

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2014 Rpod 178
Mods in Order:
1: Added USB charging port
2: Added Spigot at Fresh Water to make easy empty
3: Solar Panel
4: Cut dinette bench panel to improve access underneath

Posted By: WillThrill
Date Posted: 08 Aug 2016 at 3:42pm

Originally posted by Bovine0001

2nd, should I keep the battery topped up with a floating charge all year long? I read so much about folks installing switches into the battery line to disconnect the load and then charge it up the night before they take their RPod out. Which is the right way?

While not everyone does it, any lead acid battery not in use should be kept on a battery charger 24/7. This will make a noticeable difference in its lifespan. There are some good inexpensive battery maintainers that will do this, and many are available on Amazon as well as your local hardware store, though Amazon will probably be cheaper.

My personal favorite is the Battery Minder #1500, and it sells for around $50, and it is on the high side of battery maintainers.

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"Not all those who wander are lost." Tolkien

2014 Hood River 177
2005 GMC Envoy XL