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--- rv:idling [2022/07/26 13:04]
frater_secessus [charging]
+++ rv:idling [2023/10/01 19:28]
frater_secessus [harm reduction]
@@ Line 5: / Line 5: @@
 Idling to charge is [[electrical:12v:alternator#effect_on_alternator|hard on the alternator]].
-Alternators are typically only ~50% efficient.  When the alt is pumping out 500w for your use **it is also creating 500w of heat**, cooking itself.  The easiest way to avoid excess alternator heat is only charge from the alternator while driving. This has two effects:
+Alternators are typically only ~50% efficient.  When the alt is pumping out 500w for your use **it is also creating 500w of heat**, cooking itself.  The easiest way to avoid excess alternator heat is only charge from the alternator while driving (engine rpm ~2,000). This has multiple effects:
   - the alternator spins fast enough that its own cooling blades become effective, and
-  - airflow from the forward motion of the vehicle blows away heat
+  - the alternator is running at its most efficient RPM((~6,000))
+  - airflow from the forward motion of the vehicle helps remove heat from underhood
+==== harm reduction ====
+Assuming people are going to do it anyhow, here are some steps to reduce changes of a Bad Outcome:
+  * open the hood to allow excess underhood heat to escape.  Sun should not shine directly into the engine bay.
+  * point the vehicle's grille into any breeze, if present
+  * watch for red flags
+    * hot smells
+    * belt squealing
+    * engine RPM dropping significantly
+    * chassis voltage falling from normal levels (14.1v, or whatever you observe without charging)
 ===== heating and cooling =====

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