Quote:
Originally Posted by dkottum
My mistake. When plugged into external power you can isolate the batteries by putting the Battery Disconnect switch in "STORE" position. The radio and accessories will be powered but the converter will not charge the batteries. That's a good thing to protect the batteries from constant overcharging, but you still need a way to charge them. Solar or a separate 3-stage charger will do it.
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Thanks.
I kept my 2005 AS Interstate plugged in 24/7 when parked at home with the battery always connected to the coach's electrical system in USE mode. I didn't replace the OEM coach battery until 2012....just as a precaution after 60,000 miles of traveling. I also had a solar system and a translucent roof on the RV barn. Did the same on my 2013 International 19 (no solar system).
The 80 watt solar panel was a simple CampingWorld system connected directly to the battery with a very unsophisticated charge controller.
We'll have a 160 watt solar system installed on our 2014 International 23D later in August. The trailer has a 1000 Watt inverter.
I'm wondering how the Interstate's system differs from the Internationals'?
Do the best charge controllers have battery overcharge protection built in?