Multi Stage Converter?

[Riverbug]

New 2022 22MLE. I didn't get a manual or info on the converter/charger. I'm just trying to confirm that it is a "smart" charger that will float the battery as it should? The previous older RV's we had always had single stage chargers that would burn the batteries up if I didn't install a separate charger.

Also, if we want to add solar, I assume we would just disconnect that converter/charger and replace it with a higher performing solution?

[huntindog]

New 2022 22MLE. I didn't get a manual or info on the converter/charger. I'm just trying to confirm that it is a "smart" charger that will float the battery as it should? The previous older RV's we had always had single stage chargers that would burn the batteries up if I didn't install a separate charger.

Also, if we want to add solar, I assume we would just disconnect that converter/charger and replace it with a higher performing solution?

You probably have the infamous WFCO converter.
It is supposed to be multistage, but rarely works as it should.
Do not bother trying to warranty it, as you will just get frustrated. Just replace it, as they are not that much $$$ to stress over.

As for solar, the short answer is that you still need the converter. BUT, solar means different things to different people... Some end up with lithium batteries as part of a solar solution. If so, then you should get a lithium compatible converter when replacing the WFCO.

[Riverbug]

You probably have the infamous WFCO converter.
It is supposed to be multistage, but rarely works as it should.
Do not bother trying to warranty it, as you will just get frustrated. Just replace it, as they are not that much $$$ to stress over.

As for solar, the short answer is that you still need the converter. BUT, solar means different things to different people... Some end up with lithium batteries as part of a solar solution. If so, then you should get a lithium compatible converter when replacing the WFCO.

Thanks much. I'm not new to RVing but definitely new to solar. I was thinking I want to add solar panels and go with 200AH lithium, so I'll keep researching that and plan to replace the onboard converter with an appropriate setup. Thanks again!

[Ynot4me2]

Solar is simply a different way of charging your battery. Doesn't really have anything to do with converter directly. Your converter is a WFCO. It is multi stage but not that great as @huntingdog mentioned. Its not smart but will work with your lithium battery if you choose that route but will not charge them to 100%. You'll need a converter/charger that is compatible with lithium to get them to 100% as they require a higher voltage. There's are many good threads on this and many of our members are quite knowledgeable so don't be shy to ask questions.

[Riverbug]

Solar is simply a different way of charging your battery. Doesn't really have anything to do with converter directly. Your converter is a WFCO. It is multi stage but not that great as @huntingdog mentioned. Its not smart but will work with your lithium battery if you choose that route but will not charge them to 100%. You'll need a converter/charger that is compatible with lithium to get them to 100% as they require a higher voltage. There's are many good threads on this and many of our members are quite knowledgeable so don't be shy to ask questions.

I appreciate the info. I'll check other threads to learn more about a solar setup.

[jkwilson]

Don’t get hung up on charger stages. It’s mostly just definitions that describe what is happening rather than actual different behavior from the charger.

[RV Sailor]

Also most everyone else calls these “converters” chargers. We installed a Victron Multiplus 3000, to not only add a great 3 stage charger but also electrify all our 110 outlets from our onboard batteries.

https://www.amazon.com/Victron-Multi...00273785&psc=1

[RV Sailor]

Important to understand the three stages of charging so to determine battery type you want to use. Also in understanding the batteries acceptance of charge , overcharging, or equalizing. Again dependent on battery type.

You don’t want to be charging at bulk rate once the batteries are charged