Shedding voltage on charging system...

[chipco3434]

I have a bank of batteries on my boat. They are Alpha Gels. They have a float charge spec of ~13.8 volts. Alternator is outputing at ~ 14.0-14.2 volts. Is there anyway to shed some slightly reduce the voltage to this bank?

Secondary regulator?

 

[poobah]

Chipco,

Probably no reason for concern unless your alternator is running 24-7.

Float voltage specs are derived based on continous charging. Relatively brief periods at 14.1 will cause little, if any, harm. In fact, it may be healthy in terms of giving the cells a good "equalizing" now and then.

 

[chipco3434]

Thanks!

 

[poobah]

Should have been more specific...

Float voltage for continuous charging is spec'd for gels at 13.5 to 13.8 Volts.

Float voltage for "cyclical" charging is spec'd at 13.8 to 14.1 Volts.

So you're cool.