Multiple 12V Charging Bank

[wniemann]

I have an enclosed trailer that currently has 3 batteries that need topped off weekly to daily during the summer. It may have more in the future. Currently there is 1 battery on a tractor. Another 2 batteries are connected in parellel that run the winch. In the future I may have another 2 or 3 batteries in parellel that will run some interior lights and the a/c. The current batteries are around 25 feet from each other.

I was thinking and hoping I could buy like a 2/12/75 small form factor battery charger and then make a box with two posts connected to the box. The posts would then be connected to some sort of terminal strips. Then I could run separate wires from each terminal strips to each set of batteries. I realize I would have to keep the charger at the lower settings.

 

[rlitman]

You really do not want to parallel charge batteries of different sizes or ages. Just sayin.

 

[Gozo]

I agree. Charging in parallel can be a problem, especially when one of the batteries is a different capacity than the other. As batteries (even of the same type) age, their capacity and charge acceptance changes. Might be less of a headache to just go with two separate chargers, or charge one on odd days, one on even days.

 

[theoldwizard1]

3 votes against.

Bite the bullet and buy some battery maintainers for those that do not require frequent (more than a couple times a week) charging.

For batteries that do require frequent recharging, I hope you are using a deep discharge battery.

 

[wniemann]

I don't think any of the batteries really get discharged all that much. I just like to have them all topped off before the next use. Sometimes I'll use the trailer once a week, others maybe 3-4 times a week. Sounds like making a box with a few small automatic chargers mounted inside is the way to go. Thanks.


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[shopnut]

You might consider a marine charger for multiple batteries. They have separate leads for each battery and will top them off properly. Some of them even have individual selector switches for each battery depending on the type being charged (for instance, a boat may have a single motor starter battery and then two deep cycle batteries to power acessories when the motor isn't running)

They are not exactly cheap, however. But deals can be found on craigslist or auction sites.

 

[BIG-BRO]

I have the 4-port Battery Tender that i really like. Each port in intelligent independently, so it's good for all the various/seasonal batteries. Long (20 ft ?) extensions to run to each battery. But it is about $142 at Summit or Amazon.

 

[trainer]

That probcably would work with a separate charge controller for each battery. The kind they sell for small solar ans wind would probably do. But you may be further ahead with separate chargers.