Caravan owners often find themselves in a fix for lacking the ability to charge appliances out in remote locations. This especially applies in the case of caravans with only a single battery installed. If they hook the battery with these appliances, they may end without adequate charge to start the vehicle.
Besides reducing the possibility of a breakdown, a dual battery system in Joondalup offers several conveniences such as acting as an auxiliary power source for portable appliances and gadgetry. This offers the driver more in terms of flexibility and security. It can easily power portable fridges, audio systems, air conditioning and safety lights while the vehicle is parked.
Find out what is involved in installing a 4WD dual battery system in your caravan.
What is meant by a Dual Battery System?
Just as the name itself describes, a dual battery system quite simply utilizes a secondary battery alongside the primary starter battery. This secondary battery acts as a backup power source for all the auxiliary gear and accessories.
How does a Dual Battery System work?
For a dual-battery system to work, both batteries need to be able to function in their isolated circuits. While the caravan engine is running, the starter battery and alternator work together to supply power to the vehicle and all its electronics.
When the caravan engine is turned off, all gear and accessories connected to the vehicle for instance the portable fridge, inverter and stand light can function smoothly without interruption.
This is possible only using isolators. These devices disconnect one battery from the other so that they both can be used alternatively. Each battery in the system works independently of the other, which means the starter battery won't be drained by any auxiliary appliances. The battery isolator is also there to make sure each battery is charging properly.
However, some 4x4 dual battery isolators enable the starter and auxiliary battery to function together which gives the driver some extra boost to start the car when there is a slight voltage drop. Then again, not all isolators follow the same principle.
In most cases, auxiliary batteries are deep-cycle batteries. These types of batteries are built to be recharged repeatedly without sustaining damage or shrinking lifespan. Using a deep cycle battery ensures the driver that they have a constant source of power without worrying about drying out.
Dual Battery: Advantages and Disadvantages
If you are still considering whether a dual battery system is the way to go, consider the following:
Advantages
Enables the caravan to power lights, inverters, radio, fridge and other auxiliary devices while the ignition is off.
There is no need to be concerned about draining the battery.
Provides increased power for using the winch.
Makes it possible to recharge the secondary battery using solar panels.
Provides peace of mind in case the primary battery fails.
Disadvantages
The extra battery load increases the weight of the rig.
There is a significant rise in the budget.
Types of Auxiliary Batteries
Three types of auxiliary batteries can be installed in Caravan which are mentioned below:-
1.Lead Deep Cycle: These batteries are easy to install under the bonnet, in a tray or in a tub, and vary with preference. Deep cycle batteries are usually quite affordable but suffer a reduced lifespan if not fully discharged or recharged after each use.
2.AGE: AGMs are more popularly used in most caravans as they do not let out any hazardous gasses while charging. It is well suited to partial usage and recharge, instead of fully discharging and recharging in each use cycle.
3. Lithium: These are known to be the most durable battery for partial use cycles, featuring a reduced weight and higher capacity. However, due to heat issues, there are restrictions in installing it under the bonnet of the vehicle.
Basics of Installation
This guide should help provide a clear idea of the dual battery installation process:
The second battery is placed on the rig while ensuring there is enough room to connect the wires.
The starter battery is disconnected.
The VSR or Voltage Sensitive Relay is installed near the primary battery but away from any hot or moving parts.
The cables are cut to the appropriate length.
About 15mm of insulation is stripped from the cables, followed by attaching lugs in these places.
A heat shrink is slid over the lug and sealed by applying heat.
The black wire attached to the VSR is used to earth the relay.
The second battery is earthed too.
The VSR is attached to the mounting plate.
Positive cables may not be attached to both batteries.
The negative leads are first attached to the starter battery and then to the second battery.
The dual battery system is tested using a multimeter.
Conclusion
Keep in mind that the 4x4 dual battery system would inevitably undergo wear and tear when faced with outdoor elements. It is important to hire the right caravan electrical company in Joondalup to carry out regular maintenance which would ensure the batteries run smoothly throughout their lifespan.
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