A friend of mine just purchased an Engel 35 for his van. He installed two 6V batteries (220 aH) to power it. It needs to be plugged into a "power point" when running on DC. While driving, would it be better to plug it into a "power point" that is wired directly to the auxiliary batteries or into the "power point" on the dash of his van (which I assume gets its power from the alternator)?
Directly. those power point outlets are, in my experience, about 10 amps. Refers will be more than that. Unless of course, I know nothing about Engel refers.
That model Engel draws a little over 3 amps. I'd worry more about the poor connections inherent in typical 12 volt standard plugs.
If the coach batteries are isolated from the chassis batteries(with ignition off) by all means hook them up to the coachies. If not then use the dash outlet so the alternator powers the fridge while underway.
I have that size Engel. I run it off the vehicle 12 volt system when underway, 120 volts when parked (from either shore or generator) and a Black and Decker portable rechargable battery pack when parked with the engine off. Like Wal-Mart re-supply runs, etc.
Works great! Will freeze your stuff if you run it higher than about "1" on its scale. I stuck a little refrigerator thermometer inside to check when I open it for something. Always right on temp.
VernM
GMC Conversion van/Wells Cargo MiniWagon trailer
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My Engel 65 averages 18w or about half a battery per day. My alternator feeds both sets of batteries on the road---perhaps useful if you're cooling down the initial load. We mostly drycamp and find 4 batteries will get us through an immobile long weekend. Should be somewhat less for the 35 model.
Ditto on the minimal setting of 1 for "fridge". The "freezer" setting does draw about 3x the wattage.
Dan
02 Freightliner Sprinter 2500 long tall home brew conversion
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