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--- rv:idling [2022/06/03 14:57]
frater_secessus [heating and cooling]
+++ rv:idling [2023/10/01 19:29] (current)
frater_secessus [harm reduction]
@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
 ====== Idling the camper ======
+===== charging =====
+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 (engine rpm ~2,000). This has multiple effects:
+  - the alternator spins fast enough that its own cooling blades become effective, and
+  - 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)
+    * charger reporting less current than usual, if applicable
 ===== heating and cooling =====
@@ Line 25: / Line 48: @@
 Air conditioning will require [[electrical:generator|a generator]] or access to [[electrical:shore_power|shore power]].
-===== charging =====
-In addition to the problems listed above, idling to charge is [[electrical:12v:alternator#effect_on_alternator|hard on the alternator]].  The alternator depends on sufficient RPM to spin its cooling blades, and airflow from the forward motion of the vehicle.  Neither cooling method is available while idling.

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