Shore Power Function

[Marcio Bodnariuc]

What is the function of the 30amp shore power other than providing AC power to outlets. Does it also charges the batteries when plugged in ? If so should it be plugged in all the time or only as the battery lowers it's capacity. I see that 98% of the members at my club leave their boats plugged in at all times, is this good for the boat and batteries ?Appreciate any comments.Marcio Bodnariuc

 

[Debra B]

It depends on what is installed

You should have a breaker panel somewhere that includes a main shut-off, and breakers for the outlets, charger, water heater, etc. depending on what you have installed on your boat.I have breakers for all these and for air conditioning as well.Whether you leave the battery charger on all the time depends on the type of charger you have. Some need to be watched and only run while you are on or near the boat. Others can be left on and forgotten.If you don't have an AC panel, you should get one! AC wiring on a boat is similar to AC wiring in your home, but there are very important differences. Getting it wrong can cause problems with electrolysis. Either get someone who knows boat wiring - NOT home wiring. Or learn how to DIY. There are lots of good books out there.

 

[Bill O'Donovan]

Warning

I've noticed many boats attached as well. My marine electrician says that 98% of all electrical fires start on boats that are unattended and hooked up. That's regardless of whether one has a stepped-down charger, cutoff, etc. Rule of thumb: don't plug in except when you're staying overnight.

 

[Paul]

Shore chargers

Yes, most boats have a 110V shore charger that keeps their batteries topped off by applying a "float" voltage.It's much more healthy for the batteries than allowing them to self-discharge or to be drawn down by the bilge pump, refridgerator or other intermittant loads. Deep discharging wears out batteries, not float-charing.Plus, if you spring a leak the boat has a fighting chance to keep up.

 

[Terry]

Hi Marcio, we have always kept our boats...

connected to shorepower for the reasons Paul gives. Hunter will tell you they design the boats to handle it. Lots of good reading in the archives on this topic.Terry