Batteries, Charging, and 12 volt systems

[NDJollyMon]

Learn all about charging, battery hookups, and 12 volt systems at this great site: The 12 Volt Side of Life:

http://www.ccis.com/home/mnemeth/12volt/12volt.htm

[NWJeeper]

I found this site several years ago myself and consider it an RVrs "bible" for everything 12 volt. I have a copy printed and in the rig with me to refer to from time to time when I am on the road and dry camping. GREAT information here! Be sure to check out the rest of the site though as he has lots of other good RV related information...

[KyDan]

Yes it is a good site and a great primer for anyone however--
if you look closely at the bottom he has not updated it since 2002.
At the top of the page he says that RV converters are not good
chargers and most will not fully charge your battery and he also
says they will quickly boil away the electrolite if you are plugged into
shore power continuously.
He says you should use a good 3 stage charger instead of the built in
converter for best results.

I disagree somewhat.
My last 3 trailers, starting with a 2003 model and including my 2008 all
have 3 stage chargers built into the power centers.
My current one will not quickly charge my batteries but it will get the job
done over night. I have checked both specific gravity and voltage to
verify this.

It's always a good idea to check electrolite levels regularly especially if you
are plugged in long term. In fact, if you are plugged in all the time, I would
consider a battery disconnect switch so you could disconnect your batteries
and just flip it on once a month or so to keep them topped up.

My 2¢