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Old 03-30-2023, 06:48 PM   #1
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Power Converter Question

Does the battery charging feature on the power converters in these FR travel trailers automatically switch over to a float/maintain mode when the battery is fully charged (like a "smart charger")? I would have to assume they do, but figured I'd ask to confirm. Don't want to overcharge and cook anything. TIA.

Also, I don't see a battery disconnect switch anywhere. Do some campers simply not have them and some do?

2020 Salem 178bhsk
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Old 03-30-2023, 06:52 PM   #2
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Yes. Modern converters/chargers are 3 or 4 stage. A lot of us leave our RVs plugged in all the time and let the converter keep the battery charged. Works well.
Many RVs do not come with battery disconnects. I would rather install my own anyway, as mine will be a 100% cutoff unlike factory cutoffs.
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Old 03-30-2023, 06:58 PM   #3
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Quote:
Originally Posted by GoldDot40 View Post

Also, I don't see a battery disconnect switch anywhere. Do some campers simply not have them and some do?

2020 Salem 178bhsk
As far as I know, entry-level Salems don't come with a factory battery disconnect switch.



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Old 03-30-2023, 07:29 PM   #4
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Our Wildwood XL Lite RLXL does not have a battery cut-off switch. I've debated if it is worth the $$$ and my time to install one. At home, the trailer is always plugged in. On the road, the vehicle applies 12V to the trailer system. And in most places where we camp, there is a 120-volt service available.

The only reason I can see for a battery disconnect switch is in an emergency where we would need the 12V cut off immediately. Otherwise, I would just remove the negative battery cable.

Of course, if one does not have power available, especially for storage, then a battery cut-off switch does, or should, remove any parasitic loads. At the same time, if solar is available, then one must understand how the system is configured with regard to how the solar system charges the batteries. There are several ways to apply solar charging technology. I know I have my preferences. In other words, the battery disconnect switch should totally disconnect the battery. Thus solar is a different energy source just like the converter is a different energy source.

This is one topic I view could be debated for eons and eons.

Bob
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Old 03-30-2023, 08:01 PM   #5
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Appreciate the info gentlemen. I speculated exactly what you all explained here. Good to get the confirmation. I've had bassboats with onboard chargers and kinda figured this camper would have similar charging features as those.

I will likely install my own battery shutoff to eliminate parasitic drains for extended periods of vacancy. During the winterization process, I may simply just store the battery in my garage during the coldest months and keep it on one of my Battery Tenders, then reinstall it when dewinterizing in the spring.
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