Question: metering gauge for trailer battery

[matthewp]

Folks,

Would there be a value in putting a voltage metering gauge on my trailer battery? My concern is with the power consumption of the gauge itself.

 

[4x4junkie]

Could always put a switch or something inline with the gauge wire so you can turn it off when you don't need it.

If it has an electronic LCD readout (or is an unlit analog gauge), I wouldn't think it would draw any appreciable amount of power though.

 

[G35Vortec454]

The digital volt/amp panels I use use < 0.050A which is very low consumption especially if the battery is connected to solar panels.

 

[Rbertalotto]

Volts won't tell you too much. better to be watching the amp draw from the battery..........



http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CJ5NYV6/ref=pe_385040_30332200_pe_309540_26725410_item

DROK 0-100V/50A Digital DC Panel Volt Amps Tester Meter VA 2in1 Red LED Display+Shunt

Price: $18.01

Note: Free shipping when purchased from DROK. Not eligible for Amazon Prime.
Only 6 left in stock.
Ships from and sold by DROK.

Operating voltageC 4.5 ~ 30V
Measure voltage: DC 0 ~ 100V
Measure currentC 50A (require external shunt)
Display: three 0.28" LED digital tube
Display color: Red

 

[JIMBO]

:sombrero: Mines a simple one that gives the voltage and charge status, on a switched circuit !

:costumed-smiley-007:wings: JIMBO

 

[G35Vortec454]

And if you get a digital display, get one that has polarity display that does both pos. and neg. readings (charge/discharge).

 

[G35Vortec454]

:sombrero: Mines a simple one that gives the voltage and charge status, on a switched circuit !

:costumed-smiley-007:wings: JIMBO

What are you using to determine the "charge status"? The only absolute way I know is taking specific gravity of the battery electolyte. My meter readings are just telltales of the present situation but they're convenient.

 

[matthewp]

Thanks for the great info guys!