A conversation with an RV tech (long)

[JeffreyG]

Originally Posted by tdf-texas

Alan, why would you want to install a voltage regulator on a resistive device such as the refrigerator? It doesn't care if the voltage is higher - in fact it rather likes the higher voltages as that allows it to cool better.
Devices that should be considered for boost/buck voltage regulators are:

1. Maxxfan
2. Propane Heater
3. Hot water heater

I never run my fridge on 12V, specifically. But it does still use 12V power while running on propane.



Does anyone know if the two-way fridges have circuit boards that are likely sensitive to power above 13 or 14V?

[MrLynn]

Originally Posted by rubicon327

. . . For many users an upgrade to sealed AGM batteries that require no maintenance would be more than adequate and would be my recommendation.

This is music to my ears. My second hand 2019 E21C came with twin lead-acid 6v batteries, which seem fine so far for modest boondocking, and the inverter previous owner Shawn installed makes coffee fine. I figure when the 'flooded' batteries need replacing, upgrading to AGM will be more than enough for our needs.

This thread makes it sound as though moving to lithium requires either a dedicated electrician or a trailer with appliances and power systems prewired for the new-fangled batteries.

[HABBERDABBER]

Other than non-venting, multi-position capability, I'm not sure what the advantage is of AGM batteries over flooded lead acid. They're more expensive, but that's not an advantage.
My 6 year old Interstate 6V's are still going strong and have been well maintained by the previous owner and me. New Trojan brand or Interstate flooded 6V's are $210 each.

What's a fellow to do?

[rubicon327]

Originally Posted by HABBERDABBER

Other than non-venting, multi-position capability, I'm not sure what the advantage is of AGM batteries over flooded lead acid. They're more expensive, but that's not an advantage.
My 6 year old Interstate 6V's are still going strong and have been well maintained by the previous owner and me. New Trojan brand or Interstate flooded 6V's are $210 each.

What's a fellow to do?

I was thinking more along the lines of batteries that are inside. The combination of nuisance propane alarms we had from venting and the difficulty accessing them for adding water in some trailers would have me suggesting AGM. If they are in a front box or on the rear bumper then I agree that going to AGM may have little advantage.

[tdf-texas]

Originally Posted by JeffreyG

I never run my fridge on 12V, specifically. But it does still use 12V power while running on propane.



Does anyone know if the two-way fridges have circuit boards that are likely sensitive to power above 13 or 14V?

From the Dometic manual, the operating DC voltage is 9.5 to 15 volts DC. Look at the bottom on page 27.
https://www.dometic.com/assets/47/45...nual_64745.pdf

Some Dometic manuals state 18vdc is the limit - I would go conservative with the 15v limit.

But 13-14v? No problem.