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 …
QUESTION I read your previous column that compared the recharge performance of an Intelligent Solenoid system against your very own 25A DC-DC charger. In the same editorial, you mentioned that the results would differ if a 40A charger were used. Well, I’ve got my heart set on a DC-DC setup, purely because I like the …
Whether you’re a weekend camper or long-haul overlander, there’s no denying the convenience of a solar setup. Aside from having free energy to power your camping fridge, a solar panel can also be used to maintain your auxiliary battery for optimum service life. With this in mind, here’s a basic guide on how to connect …
The 4×4 travel market has no shortage of hot debates and shootout tests. Whether it be vehicles in a comparison, or tyres, suspension, fridges, winches, or even camping pots for that matter, people want to know what works “best”. However, there’s one subject that many overland travellers are generally keen to steer clear of, and …
1 | CAMPING LIGHT When it comes to 12V lighting, you want something that’s bright enough to light your campsite, but also dimmable for those late-night hours around the fire. The National Luna LED Camping light is ideal for permanent installations within your tent, rooftop tent, vehicle canopy or cabin, on the side of …
AGTER DIE TYD Hoekom dit National Luna tien jaar geneem het om ’n GS-GS-dubbel batterystelsel bekend te stel. Ons het al die geskinder gehoor… “National Luna is agter die tyd. Hulle is vasgevang in die verlede. National Luna gebruik ou tegnologie.” Daar is dalk ’n bietjie waarheid in dié stellings, maar daar steek meer agter …
DO YOU NEED A DUAL-BATTERY SYSTEM FOR YOUR CAMPING FRIDGE?
Portable Power Solutions for Campers on the move
An Essential Battery Terminal Upgrade for Overland Vehicles
Fast Charge
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