As an example , a compressor fridge may stop working when the voltage drops below a pre-set level . More importantly , lead-acid batteries don ’ t like being discharged below 50 per cent SOC too often as this can lead to decreased performance and even permanent damage to the cells . There had to be a more accurate way to monitor our batteries ’ SOC .
MODERN BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
Today , thanks to advancements in computer technology , smart devices , wi-fi and Bluetooth integration , the modern battery management system blows the old voltmeter into the dark ages . Companies like Redarc , BMPRO , Enerdrive and Victron ( just to name a few ) have solutions that are better described as ‘ power management systems ’. They combine solar charging , 240V charging , power output distribution and monitoring into tailored or all-in-one solutions .
Temperature monitoring on your BMS can alert you to potential issues and reduces the risk of components overheating .
The home display on the Simarine system is simple and tells you everything you need to know about what your battery is doing and how long it will last .
They have high-quality screens that show the owner all sorts of useful information as well as highly accurate SOC data . They are also extremely safe , using battery voltage cut-outs and temperature sensors to protect batteries from damage , reducing the risk of electrical fires . They do take all the guesswork out of managing your batteries .
You don ’ t even have to get out of your camp chair to see what your electrical system is doing . Most of the major brands have some form of smart device integration that uses an app to connect to the system and display real-time charging and power usage information .
If you ’ re keen , you can set up a wi-fi network in your caravan and remotely monitor your electrical system from virtually anywhere in the world using the mobile phone network . The capabilities and functionality on offer today are staggering .
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