Getaway (South Africa)

How to choose the right dual-battery system Dual-battery systems come in two forms: on-board units and portable power packs. How do you know which is for best you?

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Nothing has revolution­ised camping more than the portable fridge / freezer. The ability to keep food cold means we can travel further and stay outdoors longer. With it, however, comes the need for additional power. Getting an auxiliary battery is the simplest solution. Deciding whether you want one that’s fitted to your vehicle ( typically mounted within the engine bay), or one that’s portable is a little trickier. Essentiall­y, if packing space is your primary concern then an on- board system is probably for you. If you favour mobility ( and beating load- shedding) a portable pack may be the best bet. National Luna makes both types using its tried- andtrusted intelligen­t solenoid system. It features a splitisola­tor that piggybacks off your vehicle’s main battery, running parallel to the original wiring with no interferen­ce. The isolator is designed as a low- loss, high- current system is durable, simple, reliable and has an efficient recharge rate. Competing dual- battery systems ( such as an intelligen­t DC- to- DC charger), are often three times the price. In addition, while these so- called intelligen­t chargers are great at prolonging battery life ( due to their trickle- charge feature) they often recharge your battery at a much slower rate. ( In some cases it can require up to 48 hours to replenish a deep- cycle battery.) In comparison, the high- current solenoid system developed by National Luna can restore full battery power within six hours or less when paired with the right battery type.

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