How long might it take to recharge the battery if we connect up to household current or if we are towing the trailer?
Thu, 04/13/2017 - 21:23
#1
recharge 12 volt?
recharge 12 volt?
It really depends on how much you discharged the battery (known as Depth of Discharge [DOD]).
First, let's establish that you should not discharge your battery below 50% DOD. Below 50% DOD and you begin to harm your battery.
A 12 volt battery reaches a 50% DOD at 12.2 volts (not 6 volts as logic might suggest).
When you begin charging, the battery can absorb quit a lot of power until it reaches about 80% charge (known as State of Charge [SOC]).. Once the battery reaches the 80% point, it's ability to accept charging is slowed down. Consequently, from a 50% DOD, your battery might charge up to 80% in a couple of hours. To fully charge your battery you may need to charge it for 6 to 8 hours to get it completely full.
Additionally, if you only discharge your battery to 80% it will still take several hours to fully charge because, the battery can only accept Electrons at a "Slow" rate during the final stages of charging.
As Always,
Happy Scamping !!!
MVaVan, answered well for basic charging info.
Towing is a completely different ordeal. While the charging basics outlined above still apply, how fast you will charge while towing depends totally on your Tow Vehicle. If you have a factory tow package you more than likely have a heavier alternator, and then everything is dependent on the gauge of wire running from your Tow battery back to the 7 pin connector. Each tow vehicle will be different, some will charge well and some may not charge much at all. You'll have to learn the charging times for your particular vehicle as you go.
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