21 replies to this topic

[Toddhom]

I will eventually have more solar panels and two batteries in the camper. I would also like to be able to charge my house batteries with shore power. This winter I will take the ice box out and install a refrigerator. I would also like to cool down the refrigerator before trips by using 110 instead of 12v. I’m not sure how to configure all this.

[Vic Harder]

Ckent323
Why a Blue Sea ACR-7622. Why not just a simple battery separator.

It's been discussed elsewhere on this forum, but the standard separator will not connect the two systems if it senses a battery voltage that is too low, EVEN if charging is available.  Meaning that if your house battery is discharged, and the truck is running, it won't connect.

 

This is aggravated by wiring of too small a gauge between the truck and camper.  The symptoms include:

- driving all day and still having a discharged camper battery at the end of the day

- clicking of the separator - you might hear this

 

The separator constantly engages and disengages.  Why?  It senses that charge is available and connects.  The voltage drops drastically as a huge current flows over the wires.  It senses this drop, and disconnects.  Now, with no current flowing, it senses that charge is available... repeat.

 

The 7622 allows you to FORCE a connection.  So does a simple switch.  ;-)