12v system

[rob and jen]

Hi,

Just got a new battery for my van and before I fitted decided to try something out:-

I connected the mains (no battery at this point) and selected van on the control pannel. I was amazed to find out that none of the 12v circuits in the van operated. After installing the battery and tuning on battery charger I found that all power restored, proving the fact that the 12v power is supplied through the battery whilst it is being charged - I had not realised, so a battery is always required. Is this the norm?

Also does the van battery charger operate in the same manner as a tricle charger or different. Be grateful for any comments.

 

[RonD]

Rob,

Try switching on the charger without the battery connected and I think your van's 12v electrics will still work. The charger is really a switched mode power supply with a constant output voltage of around 13.8v. This is intended to keep a van battery reasonably well charged but won't fully charge it. If you only use mains hookups and don't have a motor mover you don't need a high capacity battery. Mine is a mere 44aH.

Ron