Battery Charger/Inverter?

[67vetteal]

I've owned our 1997 250 DA for 4 years now. The AC Panel has a switch that is labeled Inverter. This switch turns on the Battery Charger. How does the Inverter title fit in? Thanks in advance, Al W.:huh:

 

[Four Suns]

<deleted>

 

[67vetteal]

Ah, Wise One! You are correct again! But still the Mystery goes on! :huh:Thanks, Al W.:smt100

 

[Four Suns]

<deleted>

 

[Nehalennia]

Ah, Wise One! You are correct again! But still the Mystery goes on! :huh:Thanks, Al W.:smt100

Essentially what it means by Converter is that it's Converting 120VAC to 12VDC and charging your batteries.

If you have an Inverter/Charger it will Charge your batteries while on 120VAC(Shore power) and when off shore power "invert" the 12VDC to 110VAC back to your panel.

 

[67vetteal]

Gary, Thanks! I have finally learned something today. Now I can go to bed Gratified!!! LOL I appreciate your prompt response. Why does everyone pick on you? Al W.:smt009

 

[Four Suns]

<deleted>

 

[Uplate]

Previous owner of my boat said never to let the Converter on for more than 2 hours or it would burn up my 6 batteries. My neighboors and several other dock friends say they leave theirs on 24/7 while on shore power.

Seems likely to listen to previous owner suggestions..but what to most of of you do?

 

[Nehalennia]

It depends on your charger type is. Many of the newer "smartchargers" have a 3 stage charging cylce. Fast, Absorbtion and float. My boat had a bad ProMariner Flyback 20-3 when I bought it. I called Promariner to see if it was worth repairing. They offered a new Smart Charger for 50% off list. I bought the ProMariner ProNautic 1240.
It's a great charger and it won't run the risk of damaging, boiling the batteries.