Battery Selection and Hookup Help for Hunter 23.5

[Jib Davidson]

My wife and I would like to improve the DC electrical house system in our Hunter 23.5. We plan on spending two weeks in the Florida Keys. First, what suggestions are there for battery types? We run a tape/CD deck (the louder the volume the more amps are used), fans, VHF radio, interior lights, anchor lights and autopilot. Secondly, how should the batteries be wired? Finally, what about recharging? Our standayr 9 hp motor has a small trickle charger but is nothing fancy. Anyone with any suggestions would be very appreciated. Jib Davidson FFS@gnv.fdt.net

 

[Chris]

West Marine Catalog....

First thing I'd do, is look in the West Marine Catalog. They have a good explanation on different battery types and the long term costs involved. They also cover different charging requirements for different battery types. Basically, I'd try to figure out how many amps you use per hour (or day) and go with at least DOUBLE the amp hour capacity on the batteries. As far as charging goes, I doubt that the 9.9 outboard would be enough. Unless you want to invest into a serious solar cell system or a wind generator, I'd get a small gasoline generator and just live with the noise. Although I'm not sure how to charge batteries quickly with a generator.... Take care...

 

[Ed Knebel]

EXTRA BATTERY

My family went to Key Largo(Penecamp coral reef park) on our 23.5 and had a great time, using a series 27(120 amp hour battery). This battery normally lasts about 4-5 days. I carry another battery and swap it when the first is used up. The cheapest solution I have found is to buy a slip for the night, hook up a battery charger to the shore power, and go enjoy the air conditioning at the bar. With micro crusiers, a night at a slip mid cruise often delays mutiny. West marine just had shore power cords(30 amp) for about $30, you will also need a adaptor from the 30 amp to 15 amp plug($20-30). Unless you have other uses for a gas generator, it is a expensive(and noisy) way to go.