Connecting a second battery to the 12v circuit.

allanandjean
allanandjean Club Member Posts: 2,401 ✭✭✭✭
1000 Comments
edited November 2015 in Caravans #1

Hi All,

I have a problem in regard to using a second battery on sites without electric hook up.

Previously I would disconnect, and then remove, the battery in use from its compartment and swap for a charged battery but following the fitting of a solar panel, with it's battery connections, along with the standard and motor mover connections this is
now not an option.

I have considered connecting my second battery in parallel but what I need is to be able to leave the van battery in place, due to the factors above, and have a set up that allows the second battery to be used in place of the van battery.

I would intend to use the second battery to power the 12v circuit till drained then switch to the van battery whilst the second battery is being charged. If I do the charging during the day whilst away from the van,so not drawing on the 'van' battery, this
should enable the 'van' battery to last for the duration of our ususal 7 days stays. 

I have  a vague notion of switched leads with clip on connectors inside the bed box where the electrics are but, I am open to suggestions so fingers crossed!