How to tell when battery 50%

[Deanm]

After reading through the "12 volt side of life" doc posted earlier, I'm not sure I fully understand how to properly charge the batteries while boondocking ( and not shut down every electrical circuit . What is the proper way and what equipment makes it possible to do? Newb here, sorry if this question does not make sense.

[bikendan]

Originally Posted by Deanm

After reading through the "12 volt side of life" doc posted earlier, I'm not sure I fully understand how to properly charge the batteries while boondocking ( and not shut down every electrical circuit . What is the proper way and what equipment makes it possible to do? Newb here, sorry if this question does not make sense.

It's simple, either use a generator or use solar panels to recharge the batteries.

[camaraderie]

Originally Posted by Deanm

After reading through the "12 volt side of life" doc posted earlier, I'm not sure I fully understand how to properly charge the batteries while boondocking ( and not shut down every electrical circuit . What is the proper way and what equipment makes it possible to do? Newb here, sorry if this question does not make sense.

Add a true battery monitor to tell you when you need to start recharging and when you can stop.

[Deanm]

Originally Posted by bikendan

It's simple, either use a generator or use solar panels to recharge the batteries.

Ok, simple enough, but lets say I'm using a generator to run A/C and the batteries are at 50% .

I was just wondering what makes it possible to charge the batteries while maintaining proper battery management/care. What piece of equipment ?
Thanks for the replies !

[camaraderie]

If you are running a generator it will also feed the CONVERTER which changes AC to DC to power DC items in the coach AND charge the batteries. Your generator (of sufficient power) will run your air conditioning AND charge your batteries at the same time.
First thing to remember is that 1 amp from your AC generator is equal to 10 DC amps to your battery.
Example...let's say you have 30amp AC service AND your generator puts out 30 amps,,,3600watts....
Now let say your air conditioner needs 15 of those AC amps to run...that leaves you still with 15 more AC amps to power other stuff...including your converter.
Now if you have a 50DC amp converter that will take just 5 of those 15 AC amps...so you are still within your 30 ac amp limits. In reality...it will vary a bit but your batts will charge just fine if you have a generator capable or supplying 30 amps, Of course, if you can turn off the air conditioner...you can get by with a smaller generator.
Hope this helps.
BTW,,,the converter is usually buried somewhere close to the AC and DC fuse/breaker panel in your RV.