Here are some FAQ’s which we hope will answer your questions with regards your 12volt system. However if you would like to ask a question, please visit the ‘Contact Us’ page via our ‘Home’ page.
Q: What does a battery protector do?
A: Your battery protector is installed between the battery and your load (lights, cd player etc) when the battery falls to a selectable voltage (ie: 11volts) it will automatically switch your load off, this will save the your battery from fully discharging which can cause irreparable damage to your battery.
Q: Why are my batteries smelling?
A: Batteries starts to smell when the is a major problem, usually when the battery has been discharged too low, the battery has been damaged, or even a faulty cell. A WET or M/F battery must be ventilated if installed inside your caravan / RV. – A Gel or AGM battery is a better option for inside your van.
Q: Do I require more batteries?
A: Normally one or two batteries are acceptable. Using more will mean a longer charging time, and possible a larger battery charger. It can also add another 25kg – 70kg to the weight of your caravan.
Q: What’s the best battery?
A: This is a matter of personal taste, but you can always rely on a good quality AGM battery
Q: Can I charge my battery from my power supply?
A: NO, The voltage supplied from your power supply will never fully recharge your battery, and therefore will reduce it’s life considerably. Replace it with a good quality battery charger. Why not visit our ‘battery chargers’ page?
Q: Does my battery need a box or tray?
A: Yes, Batteries weigh quite a lot, so need to be held down. Remember, if you are involved in an accident, and you have to stop quickly, and your battery isn’t installed correctly, your battery will soon be overtaking you.. Not worth the risk.
Q: Are LED lights better for my battery?
A: LED’s draw less current, so your battery will last longer, although a battery likes to be worked. A good few cycles now and again, will increase your battery life. as long as it’s not discharged too low.
Q: What’s the best battery charger for my money?
A: Again this is a matter of personal taste. The C-TEC and Xantrex are both high quality battery chargers.
Q: I have a ‘silver heat sink’ near my battery, what is it?
A: This is a ‘Blocking Diode’ normally wired into the ‘Active’ line from your car to your van battery stopping the current returning to your car, making your ‘Anderson Plugs’ safe.
Q: Do I need Anderson plugs to charge from my car?
A: Yes, this is the best connection device on the market that we know, but keep it clean!
Q: Do I need solar power to stay away from powered sites?
A: This all depends on how long you want to stay away, and what power you intend to use. What’s more annoying than running out of 12v power and having to return to a power site? After the setup cost, it's free for you to enjoy – A great investment.
Q: Are generators a better option compared to solar?
A: Generators are your neighbour's worse nightmare. National parks don’t allow them, and lets face it, more fuel to carry around, and you can’t use them on a ‘Total Fire Ban Day’ – Sorry, but solar is a better option. – Who needs the A/C anyway?
Q: Can I install solar and save some money?
A: Yes, not too difficult, as long as you have some tools and know where to drill. But you will find it hard to claim on warranties if required.
Q: Can inverters run my A/C?
A: Probably not. 12volt inverters normally only go up to 2000watts, which will find it hard to run an A/C – A larger inverter will be hard to find, and when you do, it probably won’t last either.. Purchase a 12v fan instead.
Q: What can I run from an inverter?
A: This all depends on the size of your inverter. The Prosine, Victron or Latronics are some of the best on the market. The higher range will run most appliances, including your microwave, but watch out for kettles, some can use approx 2500watts… ROT: anything with an element, will use a lot of 12volt power.
Q: What does a small microwave draw from a battery?
A: An 800watt microwave can draw approx 84Ah from your batteries. Thank heaven we don’t run them for more then a few minutes.
As time goes by, we’ll try and add more FAQ’s
We hope you have found them interesting….
Please note: All answers are only advice,given in good will and to guide you on your travels. It is not precise information and should not be considered so. All / any alterations to your caravan / RV are done so at your own risk. Solarforce Pty Ltd will NOT be held responsible for any reason whatsoever.
05.11.2010