Okay, time to buy a new battery... but, REPLACE my battery or ADD to it?!

[DannyB1954]

This company also offers kits so that you can make your own reefer using really thick insulation. http://www.novakool.com/products/conversion_units.htm The refrigeration lines are sealed and pre charged. just screw them together. On boats we made top opening boxes usually with 4" of foam insulation. We only had to run them once a day. They are harder to get what you want out, but because cold air is denser it sinks and stays in the opened reefer. With a side opening box the cold air falls out when the door is opened, and is replaced by warm air. After the door is closed, this heat has to be removed.

 

[Sabatical]

Maybe this is common knowledge, maybe not. I was surprised and worried this spring when we headed back to a cooler climate and my "whiz bang jr." on the Midnite Solar Kid charge controller said I had fewer amp hours at full than my bank capacity. I knew I was in good shape having just used the hydrometer but being a solar newb still concerned. I called the dealer I got the parts from and got some shpeal about how there's a bit of magic involved in all this solar stuff. I was shaking my head as I hung up the phone and after doing some research found that the amp hour reading is based on 25 degrees celsius. So when the temps are below 75F the amp hour capcity will be lower. I was thankful the answer was that simple.

 

[SternWake]

http://www.kollmann-marine.com/fans.aspx

I added a 0.03a 6.3 CFM 40mm 12v fan to my VFc51is taking 12v from the LED light. Runs 24/7. Greatly helps maintain even internal temps and quickens cooling down of objects placed within. Allows for a lower thermostat setting to be used, but overall battery consumption will be about the same.

Sunon MagLev-Vapo 40mm x 20mm Fan w/ TAC Sensor Wire - (KDE1204PKV3.MS.AR.GN)

The boats have sliding lids which would not displace air when opened like a hinged lid will.
TGM51 wants a front loader as did I. But that did not stop me from adding extra insulation.

My VF used less battery power than my Friends chest style ARB during the same time frame and conditions.

 

[DannyB1954]

If he needs a direct replacement, a side opener will have to do, but if a top opener will work that is much better.

 

[TMG51]

Installed the 3rd panel today. Now I just need to pick up those batteries on my way south, and then there's nothing binding me to the north east anymore.