Your modified sine wave Xantrex 758 likely caused the hair dryer malfunction due to waveform incompatibility with sensitive electronics. While some devices work fine with modified sine wave inverters, modern residential refrigerators, computers, and electronics require pure sine wave power to prevent damage and ensure proper operation.
Protect alternator from lithium battery high current draw using DC-DC charger for current limiting or temperature-controlled relay. DC-DC charger is best solution. Direct connection without protection risks alternator failure.
Most RV solar systems range from 200-800 watts using 12V panels wired in parallel with PWM or MPPT controllers. Wire gauge depends on amperage and distance, with 10-12 AWG typical for most installations.
Low amp charging from solar panels is typically caused by loose connections, incorrect controller settings, or battery issues rather than a bad controller. Start by checking all wiring connections and battery voltage before replacing the charge controller.
Your 30 amp generator will power any RV converter charger. For lithium, get charger with proper LiFePO4 profile. Progressive Dynamics, IOTA with IQ-Lifepo4, or Victron all work well. Match amp rating to battery bank capacity.
LiFePO4 lithium batteries like the Dyness can replace lead acid batteries, but you'll likely need to upgrade your converter/charger to a lithium-compatible model. The BMS protects the battery from overcharging and provides longer life with faster charging.
Ekko with 640Ah lithium and 450W solar can boondock 3-5 days easily, indefinitely in good sun. Monitor usage, charge devices during peak solar hours, and use propane for cooking.
Use DC to DC charger for alternator charging of lithium batteries, not direct connection. Victron Orion or similar limits current and protects the alternator from overcurrent damage.
A lithium battery manager relay protects lithium batteries from overcharging by disconnecting them from the alternator when not needed. Installation involves wiring the relay between your alternator/converter and battery bank with proper fusing and control circuits.
The Magnum MS 2812 is only a 30A charger, not 50A, despite being a quality unit. For true 50A charging, consider the Progressive Dynamics PD9260C or Aims 3000W units under $1000, or bite the bullet on a higher-end Victron or Magnum 50A model.
Keep boost switch wiring separate from DC-DC charger circuit. Add dedicated chassis battery charger or use DC-DC second output for trickle charging. Boost switch remains for emergency use.
Yes, you can use a spare DC/DC charger to maintain chassis batteries during winter storage by connecting it between your solar-charged house batteries and chassis batteries. This creates an effective battery maintenance system for long-term parking.
Dual purpose lithium batteries work for coach use but dedicated deep cycle lithium is better for house banks. Dual purpose compromises between starting and cycling. For RV house batteries, deep cycle LiFePO4 provides better value and cycle life.
12V fridges draw 3-6 amps and your tow vehicle should provide enough charging through 7-way connector. Check voltage at trailer while towing - should see 13.5V+ if charging properly.
For three 400W panels (1200W total), you'll need an 80-100 amp MPPT controller. Calculate by dividing total wattage by battery voltage, then add 25% safety margin.