Battery Monitor

[Chuckbear]

I have seen too many problems with the Xantrex models lately. I know, lots of folks have them and don't have problems, but they are not the new units. I am telling customers to install the Victron units, which IMO are first rate, until Xantrex gets their quality control under control.

 

[Benny]

There are certainly applications for high quality, advanced, battery monitors but there is still use for a voltmeter gauge for those simpler boats. I do not think it is fair advice to discount the information provided by a voltmeter as inadequate and worthless. Having used a voltmeter for years to monitor batteries state of charge I wish to report that I have enjoyed good battery life and adequate power to conduct desired activities aboard. Knowing how to read the gauge and experience certainly play a part on it. A battery on a discharge cycle will give a voltage reading representing a lower state of charge than the actual. This works as a margin of safety as it will tell you to stop discharge prior to when its necessary. On the other hand when on a charging cycle the voltage may represent a state of charge which has not been attained. This is not a problem either as the charge regulator or controller will prevent overcharging. What is the concern when the batteries are being simultaneously charged and discharged? The answer is none as for the time the batteries are being charged they will not discharge to more than 50% with the usual boat electrical requirements. With experience you can compare rates of discharge and estimate available remaining capacity. A good digital voltmeter gauge can be purchased for around $40.

 

[Maine Sail]

Victron

I have seen too many problems with the Xantrex models lately. I know, lots of folks have them and don't have problems, but they are not the new units. I am telling customers to install the Victron units, which IMO are first rate, until Xantrex gets their quality control under control.

While Victron has very little US distribution their US headquarters and national sales manager are based in Thomaston, ME. They do sell battery meters to Jamestown Distributors who is an excellent source and an A+ vendor to deal with.

Victron BMV-600 $194.65 (LINK)