Have you ever wondered why 12V accessory plugs are loose in some sockets but snug in others? Well, if you have, you’re not alone. The truth is, not all sockets are the same. They typically come in two varieties: Cigarette lighter sockets. 12V Accessory sockets. Because cigarette-lighter sockets were designed primarily for, well… cigarette lighters, …
A previous blog post covered the pros and cons of a portable dual-battery system versus an installed unit. Aside from portability being the most apparent advantage, one of the main benefits of a battery-box system is its feature-filled control panel, boasting: USB ports Power sockets Solar input (model dependant) A quick-connect coupling for our 220V …
While the benefits of a portable-battery system are seemingly obvious (mobility around camp, backup household use, and an easy installation in your vehicle or trailer), deciding which portable system is best for you, isn’t always so clear. To help with the decision, here’s a breakdown of National Luna’s full range of class-leading battery boxes, starting …
In a recent technical column, we described the pros and cons of using a 40A DC-DC charger versus a 25A unit. You can read that blog piece here, otherwise, here’s a summarised version below… 25A VERSUS 40A Although a 40A DC-DC charger appears to be the ultimate dual-battery solution, the benefit of using a 40A …
Which is best? An installed dual-battery system, or a portable unit? Dual-battery systems generally come in two formats: 1) Installed units that are permanently mounted within your vehicle, or… 2) Those packaged within a portable power pack / battery box. If you’re having trouble deciding which solution is right for you, here’s …
The decision to install a dual-battery system is often motivated by the need to run a 12V camping fridge. But does the purchase of a portable fridge automatically necessitate the need for a dual-battery system? Or, can you get away with running your fridge on a standalone auxiliary battery without a split-charging isolator? …
Although dual-battery systems have been around for many decades – commonly in the form of a manually operated switch – it was only until 1998 that the split-charging system was automated via an Intelligent Solenoid. A short while later, the market called for a portable version, one that could be recharged via a vehicle’s alternator, …
If you’re planning a DIY dual-battery installation, you may find that your battery’s overly crowded terminals are the first obstacle. This is especially true if your vehicle already has a stack of 12V accessories drawing power from the cranking battery. Instead of trying to squeeze an additional cable onto an already messy battery terminal, the …
Is it time to ditch your lead-acid battery for lithium-ion technology? While some overland travellers have migrated away from lead-acid batteries in favour of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4), others are not yet convinced of the economics. Although it may be true that the higher costs of a LiFePO4 auxiliary battery make it harder to justify …
QUESTION: Thanks to ‘lockdown’, my vehicle’s battery is going flat and it can barely start the engine when I need it. I’ve been told that disconnecting the terminals will protect the battery. Is this true? I’d also like to know why my caravan’s deep-cycle battery is on its way out; it’s only a couple of …
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National Luna BlueTooth Control Upgrade
New Universal 12v Accessory Plug From National Luna
Trend Change – National Luna’s New 35-Litre & 45-Litre Camping Fridges Confirm Market Change