Is It Better To Wire 12V RV Batteries In Series Or Parallel? Which Inverter Charger Is Compatible?
Updated 04/22/2026 | Published 04/21/2026
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Question:
I already have 2 12V batteries. Is it worth rewiring them into 24V or should I just leave them in parallel and use something like VN42VR?
asked by: Jason
Expert Reply:
Hey Jason, you can go either way - it just depends on your goals.
Keeping them in 12V parallel works great with something like the Victron inverter charger # VN42VR or Inverter # VN55ZR and is the simplest route for basic power setups. Rewiring to 24V lets you use Victron inverter charger # VN58ZR or inverter # VN44RR, and gives you better efficiency and lower current, which helps with larger loads.
You’re not losing or gaining power by switching to 24v - same batteries, just a more efficient power delivery. You’ll just need a step-down like # VN32ZR for your 12V circuits if you switch to 24v setup.
Are you planning to add more power later or keep it about the same? What appliances or electronic loads are you planning to run?
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Victron Phoenix VE.Direct Inverter - NEMA GFCI - 1,000 Watts - 12V - UL Listed
- Power Inverter
- Pure Sine Wave
- Kitchen Appliances
- 12V
- 1200 Watts
- Inverter Only
- AGM/Gel/Lead Acid
- Lithium
- Outlet
- Marine
- RV
- Van
- Victron
more information >
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Jason
4/22/2026
the 12v is cheaper and does the same thing, right? and I wouldn't need the added step down converter...