2018-19 R27 electrical system

[SLyle01]

We're Newbies to cruising with RTs (R27 LE O/B), but thiMk we're getting it now: Please advise if we still seem confused, thanks.
We're trying to set up a checklist for the Electrical system for Pre-departure (overnights/cruises) and on Leaving the boat i.e. for several days at dock.

Staying at our slip: We prefer to use shore power only for ~1 day at a time (save zincs) i.e. to charge batteries (is charger ON?). On pre-departure we use the A/C with shore power (or Gen. if no power) to pre-cool cabin. Otherwise, just leave everything off and let Solar panel keep batteries charged (Charger OFF, Inverter OFF). Right?

Understand 110v AC is with Shore power or Gen. Needed only for Microwave, Heat-A/C, 110v Outlets, H2O heater and Refrigerator. 12V runs everything else from eng. alternator, solar or batteries. So enroute or away from shore power we have only solar panel DC power (w/inverter OFF unless AC needed) or use Gen. for 110v AC. P.s. We do shut off Refrig. if not needed, to save batteries on Inverter.

2 questions:
When does the Inverter need to be ON? Only when converting 12v to 110v AC underway i.e. only on battery (alternator?) power?

When is the Battery Charger needed? Only for recharging if below 12.8v on DC Panel? Used with Shore power or Gen. only?

Thanks

 

[Red Raven]

You pretty much got it with a couple of exceptions.

The refrigerator runs on 12volts (batteries). The refrigerator can be left on all the time if you have food in it and the house battery switch is left on.

The inverter can be left off at all times unless you are needing the microwave or other AC outlet when not on shore or Generator power.

The Battery charger should be turned on and left on any time you are on Shore or Generator power to keep the batteries fresh. Never turn on the battery charger when on inverter (on some boats it is not possible anyway).

Curt

 

[knotflying]

Just to add to Curt's info. My practice, when using the inverter, I will let the engine run so the batteries are being replenished while being drained. This is with short usage such as the microwave, coffee maker or a hair dryer. I have no generator so I use the inverter in these situations. If you don't mind the noise or won't be annoying your fellow boaters at anchor then using the generator will eliminate using the inverter, hence no need to run the engine.

Also, if you are worried about your zincs, a galvanic isolator should be installed and/or a sacrificial zinc clamped to a battery negative post and then dropped into the water. Remember to pull it from the water before leaving!