Hi, I have a Xantrex Smart Charger that came with the boat. (TC20 or TC40 model Installed in 2011 along with new "old school" non-sealed batteries). It's definitely on the "very resonable" end of the price range for smart chargers / batteries, honestly if I would have shopped for the setup I would have probably sprung for more expensive stuff.
However, (Knock on wood) It is completely "set and forget" automatic, and works really well so far. Last year I thought I had battery issues (1 start and 2 house) so I took 'em to a shop to get them tested. The result: They all tested 8-10% more than their "new" rated capacity. The guy said: Whatever you do at the boat.. Keep doing it. The problem was dirty connections.. A good clean-up with a metal brush and coat of battery post protection stuff was all that was needed. Since it's worked so well before, whenever the boat connected to shore power, the charger is on and I don't really pay any mind to the batteries beyond the occasional check for clean / tight connections and electrolyte level. As for usage: Under prior ownership, the batteries' 1st couple years consisted of mostly sitting at the dock unused, the charger was on 24 / 7 as far as I know. So even with very infrequent use, it seems to have taken real good care of the batteries. -Francois 1990 34+ "Take Five" Lake Lanier, Georgia
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