Will a 100-Amp Converter Keep My Lithium Battery Charged While Running a 12V AC?  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hey Lauren, thanks for reaching out. Yes, the WFCO Auto-Detect RV Converter Charger # WF56FR makes a lot more sense for what you are trying to do. Your existing 30-amp converter simply cannot keep up with a 12V air conditioner plus the refrigerator and other DC loads, so the battery makes up the difference even while you are plugged into shore power. The # WF56FR can supply up to 100 amps of 12V DC output and automatically switches to the proper lithium charging profile, including up to 14.6V in lithium bulk mode. That gives you substantially more available DC power to run the appliances while still having charging capacity left for the battery.

There are two important things to check before making the swap. First, the 100-amp rating is on the DC side. The # WF56FR needs its own 120V 20-amp receptacle/circuit with minimum 12 AWG wiring, so the 30-amp breaker on your existing converter circuit needs a closer look before connecting anything. WFCO also specifies 2 AWG DC wiring from this converter to the distribution center because of that 100-amp output. Second, for running the 12V A/C while driving, the converter is not involved because you have no shore power going into it. Your DC-to-DC charger has to produce enough amperage to cover the A/C, refrigerator, and other 12V loads with some output left over to charge the lithium battery. If the A/C draws 50 amps and your DC-to-DC charger only supplies 30 amps, for example, the battery still supplies the remaining load and continues losing charge.

Where are you heading that makes pre-cooling the camper most important for you?

expert reply by: Jesse M

0