How to Effectively Charge RV Batteries While Driving

Quick update (3-2021): In this video, we send the charging current through the 7-way connector. This will work, but not optimally. We have since noticed a small drop in voltage between the DC to DC charger and the house batteries on the trailer. Instead, we recommend connecting the DC to DC charger to the battery bank using quick connect cables such as Anderson connectors. Note: You will need 2 of these cables -- one from the charger to the battery and one from the battery to the charger, using the quick disconnect when you separate your tow vehicle from your trailer.

In this video we'll cover:
1. Why your RV batteries don't get an effective charge while you drive.
2. How the DC to DC Battery Charger works and integrates into your towing vehicle and RV system to reduce charging times.
3. Our step-by-step installation of the Battery Charger into a 2017 Toyota Highlander that tows a 22 foot Micro Minnie Winnebago Travel Trailer.

Brief Overview:
Most travel trailers connect to their towing vehicle with a 7-way plug connection, which provides power to the trailer. At only 5 amps, this isn't enough current to effectively charge the trailer batteries.

With a DC to DC battery charger integrated into this system, it acts like a pump to electronically boost the voltage (pressure) and amperage (flow) coming from the starting battery to provide a more effective charge to the RV batteries and greatly reduce charging time. The maximum amperage with the DC to DC battery charger installed is closer to 20 amps, rather than just 5 amps with a trickle charge.

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Go directly to the 20A DC to DC Battery Charger
https://renogy.sjv.io/LPoZQM

If you are trying to decide between a standard or dual input DC to DC charger, as well as how to size it appropriately for your system, this article will walk you through it: https://www.renogy.com/blog/so-many-d...

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We'll see y'all on the road!

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Disclaimer: Most of the videos we make include affiliate links and paid sponsorship, this helps keeps our information free and us on the road (10 years and counting!).

This video is intended to help users plan, organize, calculate, and install a personal DIY solar powered electrical system. We, Shari & Hutch (Freedom in a Can, LLC), are neither professional electricians nor solar installers; we are educators who have learned to install our own system and to empower others to do the same. If you have questions, reach out in the comments section and we'll get back to you.

If you need further assistance beyond our advice, consult a solar professional or certified electrician. Electricity is dangerous, so do your homework, take it one step at a time, and good luck!