can I charge a 48 volt system with a 12 volt automotive charger?

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Small Cabin Forum / Off-Grid Living / can I charge a 48 volt system with a 12 volt automotive charger?


Author	Message
instigator Member	# Posted: 11 Jan 2014 04:59pm Reply The set up best I cantell is two very large panels, 8 golfcart batterkes tristate controller and magnasine converter. I beleive the system is set up 48 volts but does not get me thru the night, especially winter time. I have access to 110 next door, can I supplement charging the batts at night with a Ten amp 12 volt automotive charger.? Thanks

MtnDon Member	# Posted: 11 Jan 2014 05:28pm Reply Not really in any practical way. To charge a series connected bank of 8 - 6 volt batteries you would need to break that 8 battery string down into 12 volt segments. Then charge each segment by itself. With a 10 amp charger that is going to take long enough to be impractical. Sounds like you need more PV panels; and/or a bigger charger that can supply 48 volts so the battery bank can stay connected in series while you charge. 48 volts at 20 to 25 amps would work. http://www.iotaengineering.com/3648vdc.htm