Another question about batteries / Converter as if there isn’t enough of them already LOL:
I’ve replace 3 of the original interstate batteries last year because all 3 batteries were either smoking or very very hot. After reading issues similar like mine on this form and other forms I came to the conclusion that the batteries were low on water due to the desulphation process. I would only check the batteries every 4-6 months as the Seneca is stored indoors and plugged into a 15Amp outlet. What I did to resolve that was install the Flow-Rite MP2000 quick-fill battery kit which allows easy water fill of the batteries ever 4-6 weeks. Since doing this the batteries either will take little or no water. YEA solved that problem.
My new issue is, why am I still seeing acid on the tray. The batteries are not hot and I check the voltage status on the inverter display every time I visit the Seneca in storage and it shows 13.2 which is storage mode. I also check the status lights on the PD9280A converter making sure it matches what is on the digital display. I had the Seneca in my front yard 2 weeks ago for a week and always 13.2. I’ve seen it go to 14.4 (Equalize mode) but it does not stay on this very long. To me the converter is working as designed.
I want to change over to AGM either this year or next so I called the Interstate battery store and told him this issue. He said he’s had customers with the same issues and that the chargers in the RV’s are always charging a bit and water does come out. He said the best solution is to only plug the RV into shore power every 4-5 weeks for a week. I told him how the charger works and he said if there’s not a way to switch the charge to not charge while plugged in then its best to unplug it. So... I read the PD9200 series manual and I came across this little bit of information:
CAUTION
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE FLUID LEVEL OF ANY CONNECTED BATTERIES BE CHECKED ON A REGULAR BASIS. ALL BATTERIES WILL “GAS” AND LOSE SOME FLUIDS WHEN CONTINUOUSLY CONNECTED TO ANY CHARGING SOURCE.
He also said he’s seen AGM batteries swallow up due to the chargers continue charging.
If I do unplug it while in storage I would also flip the switch off by the steps to turn all power off which from my reading will shut the inverter down as well because its set on PS1 the default configuration.
Thank you for any and all advice,
John
Boy
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