Enclosed Trailer Solar Setup - Can I Use Converter To Power Accessories And Charge Batteries?

Updated 01/13/2026 | Published 01/07/2026

Products Featured in This Question

PowerMax AC to DC Converter w/ Built-In 3-2-1 Stage Battery Charger - 12V - 100 Amps

(1)

$245.00

Buyers Products 6-Way Fuse Block w/ Cover

(3)

$27.13

Question:

I’m building a solar setup in a utility trailer, but I want a backup option to charge batteries from shore power at home or out in the woods with a generator. Would a PowerMax converter be a good choice? thought about a standard charger and wire the accessories to the batteries but I'm not sure. thank you!

asked by: Josh

Expert Reply:

Hey there Josh. That sounds really neat!

And yes, the PowerMax standalone converters like the # PM84VR 100 amp work great for setups like that. When solar can’t keep up or you’re back at home or even in the woods, the converter lets you plug into AC power / generator and quickly recharge the battery bank while still running your 12V loads.

This will allow the batteries to be load-free when charging, whereas if you wired the accessories straight to the battery and had a standard charger, the batteries wouldn't charge as fast since they'd still be powering the loads while trying to charge. That's like trying to fill a cup while water is seeping out of a hole at the bottom of it lol. Also, this converter charger is the more proper way to do it, along with using a small fuse box setup, something simple like # 3375601006 if you don't already have the fuse box figured out yet.

How large is your battery bank, and are you planning to run the converter often or just as a backup?

expert reply by: Andrew N

Sarah

1/13/2026

Would this still work if the solar controller is already connected to the battery?

Andrew N.

1/13/2026

@Sarah Yes, that’s totally fine. The solar controller and the PowerMax converter can both be connected to the battery bank. Solar will do its thing when the sun’s out, and when you plug into shore power or a generator, the converter takes over without any issues. Solar won't really shut off but it won't be needed when converter takes over.