Dual Battery System Options
Dual Battery systems differ depending on the application, your make and model and what you are trying to achieve.
With the advent of almost limitless accessories available now, the need to place a secondary battery is now commonplace and the ability place them almost anywhere has so many options.
The simplest way is to place an Cycling battery in a battery box somewhere convenient. For example, in the rear of any vehicle, at the very front or back of the boat, in caravan storage areas, etc. Whether it be a SUV, Twin cab or Utility vehicle or large 4WD, we now can provide more power than ever before. This can be made fixed or portable so you can move it from vehicle to camp to boat, or anywhere else you may need portable power.
Fixed mountings are common, and there are three main technologies for cycling - Lead Acid, ADM/VRLA, Lithium. They vary in price and all have different features and benefits but like many products, you get what you pay for. The options for position range from under bonnet, behind rear seats (slimline concealed), box mounting in open areas are all available for every customer need and imagination. Amperage sizes are as varied as the types and shapes of batteries. Power being available at the flick of a switch to operate everything from portable power tool chargers, kettles, coffee machines, phone/computer chargers and lighting for the serious camper. The number of Amp Hours needed is only limited to the amount of power and space you require and have the budget for. You can determine this by working out your accessory draws and running times.
There are also two main types Voltage Sensitive Relays (VRS) and DC - DC chargers. The VRS is a battery isolation unit that allows a charge to the storage battery but prevents the drainage of the primary battery. This method is economical and suited to earlier model vehicle configurations pre- 2013, while the DC to DC electric packages are more suited to vehicles above 2013 with a modern smart charging system which requires more encouragement for the electrical system to recognise the second battery and charge it. Although both systems can be fitted by the DIYérs, care should be taken with the modern vehicle electrical system and the sensitive components that control the cars management charging controls. Tampering in this area can cause major damage and be extremely costly to repair if an incorrect connection is made. Always seek professional advice if unsure of any step in all wiring procedures or get us to specify and install a Dual Battery System for you and do it right the first time.
Solar panel or blanket combinations are becoming popular with their ease of connections to enable a constant charge to satisfy all configurations. Whether stand alone or through a DC to DC charger, the solar panel produces great charging potential while the engine is on or off. For stand-alone solar charging setups, a regulator is necessary to prevent to higher voltage entering the battery being charged preventing over charging damage.
Everything here is available at one of our Stores. Great ranges of batteries and accessories, pricing and stock options are in with expert friendly staff on hand to assist. Always seek advice from our store professionals as to what is best for your needs. Like everything electrical, care and knowledge are a must.
