jd
Newbie RV’er
Posts: 9 
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Post by jd on Jun 11, 2017 8:37:36 GMT -5
Being new to RVing, I have a question that is probably simple. I have a 2017 Durango Gold that we are planning on living in full time. While prepping/packing the coach, the batteries are dying after several days. No lights are left on, and nothing is running. I keep it plugged into my 110v house power at all times.
My question is: While being plugged into A/C, does this unit have a battery charging system of any kind?
I've had to plug my small battery charger on it for days at a time to get a decent charge on the batteries, but feel that I shouldn't have to do that. My biggest concern is that I'll end up getting stuck somewhere while dry camping because I won't be able to use my hydraulic system to raise/lower my rig. Any ideas?
Thanks in advance!
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Post by lynnmor on Jun 11, 2017 9:14:44 GMT -5
Of course it should be charging while plugged in. If you are using an adapter to connect to an outlet, be sure that both sides of your 50 amp plug are getting power.
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jd
Newbie RV’er
Posts: 9
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Post by jd on Jun 11, 2017 9:23:00 GMT -5
I thought so...and all A/C devices work while plugged into my 110 power. So there must be something going on with my charging system.
Thanks!
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Post by Chuck on Jun 11, 2017 11:25:39 GMT -5
jd Hummmmmmm I puzzled if your plugged in all the time to A/C then battery's should be charged  But saying that If you are not plugged into A/C all the time while you are prepping your trailer make sure you turn off the switch/button for you TV behind the bedroom TV, this will drain your battery if left on over a period of time ... Also the WIFI transmitter in the storage area if you have one will be a small draw on the amount of power as well if you have one, this I do not believe you can't turn off. I don't believe the WIFI draws much as what the TV router switch will but it still draws power any way you look at it ... As well if you do not change over your refrigerator (If you have a RV frig) to propane if left on this will pull power from you batteries in a big way, so make sure you running on propane or turn it off altogether. Your frig will keep stuff cold for 8 hours if off, I've tested mine and the ice in the freezer was till frozen after 8 hours an the main frig was still pretty cool I read that some but not all people when dry camping run a small generator for a hour or two to keep their batteries up but since the DW will not dry camp only a few times a year (full hookup always) I carry a 6.7 Honda generator when we do ... Safe Travels & Don't forget about the Kz Rally this Summer Chuck |
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jd
Newbie RV’er
Posts: 9
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Post by jd on Jun 11, 2017 11:32:41 GMT -5
I'm puzzled too. But when I take it back to the dealership for them to install the ice maker and electrical management system, I'll definitely address this issue with them.
Another weird thing that I forgot to mention: The only time that the bedroom air conditioner will come on is when you have the bedroom lights on. Turn off the light switch for the lights...the air conditioner turns off. So in the summer, you can sleep in the dark and hot, or under bright lights and comfy.
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Post by Chuck on Jun 11, 2017 11:47:31 GMT -5
LOL Well the light and air conditioner is a problem for sure ... Remember that even when you are not plugged into shore power the is some current going thought your trailer and drawing on your batteries, the only way to stop that is to turn off your battery switch ... I always have my trailer plugged into at 30amp all the time at home, if I don't then I turn the battery switch off ... Also another way to keep batteries up all thought I don't recommend it while dry camping is to plug you trailer into your truck (of course leave truck running) this will also charge your batteries but at the pretty high price of burning fuel or gas Ugh, but in an emergency as the say any port in the storm ... Safe Travels & Don't forget about the Kz Rally this Summer Chuck PS I added to my other post above about your Frig |
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Post by lynnmor on Jun 11, 2017 17:10:00 GMT -5
So did you check for voltage at both legs of your 50 amp plug?
The AC problem is likely a mistake in wiring.
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jd
Newbie RV’er
Posts: 9
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Post by jd on Jun 13, 2017 0:30:42 GMT -5
I have been keeping the rig plugged into my 110 outlet while getting everything prepared to move in. So far, I'm showing 100% on the batteries. I am the kind of guy who does not like to get into a compromising position...so I ordered a 100w folding solar panel kit to keep my batteries charged while dry camping. Also got one of those jumper battery kits as well. It would really suck to be dry camping and have your batteries die on you. Then you wouldn't be able to raise up the rig to attach to your truck. So, between the solar panel, jumper kit, and the portable generator mounted in the bed of my truck...I think I'll be ok No, I haven't had a chance to check voltage. I've been too busy moving and condensing to get my stuff to fit in the new home. It's amazing how much stuff you can acquire in 13 years. |
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Post by lynnmor on Jun 13, 2017 8:20:55 GMT -5
I have been keeping the rig plugged into my 110 outlet while getting everything prepared to move in. So far, I'm showing 100% on the batteries. 100% on what meter? |
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jd
Newbie RV’er
Posts: 9
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Post by jd on Jun 14, 2017 7:52:01 GMT -5
On the panel that shows level of batteries, fresh water, gray water, black water.
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Post by lynnmor on Jun 14, 2017 8:08:58 GMT -5
On the panel that shows level of batteries, fresh water, gray water, black water. That panel will read full whenever it is plugged in, it will give a very rough idea of battery charge when unplugged. Get a voltmeter to monitor the voltage while charging and voltage as battery is being drawn down. Some good reading and print out the State of Charge chart. link |
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cmore
Newbie RV’er
Posts: 34
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Post by cmore on Jun 14, 2017 13:58:44 GMT -5
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