How To Connect 6 Volt Batteries in SERIES and PARALLEL for SOLAR

[@RVwithTito]

UPDATE: If you are curious how the new batteries are doing, I just posted a short follow-up video on Instagram (instagram.com/rvwithtito/). Cheers!

[@bob_frazier]

Ha! It's so nice of you to do followups! Always appreciated Tito.

[@golfnut2599]

would like to see the update but i don't know anything about instagram. any chance you can do an update on youtube

[@bob_frazier]

You know, I was going to say the same thing. I don't Facegram or instabook, but I sure would like Brian to tell us all more about his batteries.

[@RobbieCaptMilkboneBaxter]

How do we find it? link just shows random pictures.

[@bobbybaldeagle702]

I must say your the first one to show how hooking them up can be so simple... No one that I've watched show how to do it prior the putting them in... Thank you....

[@estebanjuarez2779]

Tito I need your help. I'm thinking of doing something similar like that and place those batteries in a storage box. My question is how would I then be able to connect those batteries to the rv itself while also charging them to solar in a simple set up?

[@DaveGalligher]

You mentioned that you made an additional steel reinforcing bracket underneath to help support the additional weight requirement, do you have a video on that? Looking to add two additional batteries to my bank of 4 6v on the fifth wheel for a total of six batteries. Would like to make sure the proper support is provided... Thank you.

[@georgea.henryjr.5191]

Just looked at your video. Enjoyed how you explained and showed everything what you did. I noticed that 6 volt solar batteries seems to be more popular and highly used in solar panel systems than 12 volt solar batteries. Great superb video Brother Tito!😊

[@RVHabit]

This is an awesome upgrade. I unfortunately do not have the space without major modifications. Maybe one day. 6 volts are definitely the way to go. Awesome explanation of series and parallel battery hookups. Good luck with the new setup. As always great video and stay safe.

[@RVwithTito]

That has been my problem too. My RV originally came with one 12 volt battery. I've expanded and moved my battery bank at least 3 times in the last 10 years. I just don't have the basement storage like a class-A. I've actually thought of ditching my 4K generator and using that space for batteries.

[@silvursprings]

Brian, you've answered every question I've had so far about my new (to me) Class C! 😁😁😁 Thank you thank you thank you!!! I've watched many videos this last week but, you always seem to explain everything simply, to the point and your work is clean, neat and more professional than the professionals! You and Melissa are my go to RVers. Experience is everything. Thanks y'all!

[@rvamericayall]

That was the best description we've seen of series vs parallel. Thank you for the excellent explanation. Glad to hear that the new system is working so well! Safe travels!

[@RVwithTito]

+RV Texas Y'all Thanks! I'm so glad you found it clear and helpful.

[@semretired15]

Great simple to understand battery explanation. Just invested into 2 AGM 6V batteries. You are so right about space. Have a Chateau Sport 24-T RV with small outside battery box. I measured 5 times before ordering. I basically used a shoe horn to get the batteries end to end in a plastic battery box into where our 12v was at. I am trying to find a company that makes a end to end battery slider tray. Once I find that I can modify and beef up the battery box to install the slider tray.

[@RVwithTito]

+Chateau Sport 24-T I was thinking of building a new compartment and tray but decided just to fortify my existing one with no tray. I won't be needing to service my AGMS anyway. Plus the tray adds vertical space that I needed.

[@semretired15]

Thanks I am still looking into a slider I do not have any room to even see the tops of my batteries to be able to check the battery cables. Hopefully I can find a set of heavy duty slider brackets online and make a battery tray.

[@chevyvantravel9735]

do you have something explaining how to set up a control charger?

[@RVwithTito]

Not sure I do. They are basically solar in and batteries out. You also need to set the battery type and system voltage. The more expensive models low you to do this via bluetooth while others have dial or switch setting. The instructions for the solar controller should walk you through it.

[@RVstreet]

Hey Tito, Nice, sweet and to the point on how to make one BIG 12V battery. Loved the pre-made short cables too. That makes for a easy and clean install. I have 2 - 6V Trogan golf cart batt's in series like you 😜 USED TO HAVE 😜 and they still work fine for what we do and how we travel. 72lbs.a piece...WOW! That's a lot of weight off CCC. But hey still LIKED 👍 the video. Nice job man. 🙏

[@RVwithTito]

Hey Thanks! Switched to lithium a couple years ago because we mostly boondock on solar. Any plans to upgrade? BTW great job with your channel. Good DIY info.. I've been watching for a long time now.

[@RVstreet]

@@RVwithTito Thanks Tito. Ya I later realized you have since upgraded to Lith. But for us, no plans to upgrade to lithium. To much money, would need a different converter and other stuff. Lithiums are not plug and play from lead acid as you know. Plus my batt bay is located under my steps and exposed to the cold elements. I'd have to jump thru other whoops to protect them from freezing temps. Cause that does happen.....LIKE LAST WINTER in Texas. 😢 I just don't want to or need that hassle to convert. But for us and the way we travel our 6V batt's serve us well. I've got 230watts of portable solar, a EU2200I Honda generator, my onboard Onan generator and some other stuff in the works. Once I have all my plan together I'll be doing a video of course. Right now we're living all summer in Maine on 15amps. Our 3rd doing this. We have plenty of power. Just have to manage it. No AC needed either. I know you at one time were not full time but were planning on it I believe. Am I right about that? Have you done that yet? Good hearing from you my friend. 🔧😜

[@RVwithTito]

@@RVstreet Great hearing from you too! We're not full time. About half time actually on the road about 6 months per year. Still have a house in WA and We're currently in Colorado.

[@sonnyreel289]

Great video. I'm building a solar system for my storage / workshop building. Could I use the 4 6v batteries with a 200W solar system?

[@RVwithTito]

Yes, absolutely. It simply depends on how much power you need to put back in the batteries each day.

[@michaelcacioppo484]

If one were to add an inverter, which terminals would that be added to? The two that you took the reading from? Thanks

[@klouism1]

Thank you. I have always been a bit confused on hooking up parallel and series. You have explained it in a very understandable way. Great Video.

[@ReversePeople]

Another awesome video!! What’s the maximum number of batteries you can safely connect in parallel? I have 5 x 12v/100Ah LFP batteries connected in parallel with 4/0 welding cable and tinned cooper lugs and wonder if it’s safe to add three more. Thank you kindly.

[@RVwithTito]

I do think there's a limitation you need to worry about. I've seen battery bank's with 10-12 batteries. Just make sure your cable gauge is adequate for your current load.

[@ReversePeople]

RV with Tito DIY - thank you so much! Is there any sort of formulaic approach to knowing how large a bank can/should be? I have Battle Borns, all purchased at nearly the same time, but should I be concerned about the batteries in the center of the bank vs the ones at the ends? My thinking is that since LFPs have such a low resistance that they’ll keep themselves balanced. Thoughts on that? Again, thank you so much.

[@MrBofficial0913]

I have 6 12v valence battery connect it series-parallel, 24v and planning to buy a 24v valence battery connect it as parallel, can I connect it on the 6 battery 12v series-parallel then 6 24v parallel?

[@andrewevanoff1192]

Have you had any issues from connecting the series banks in parallel? What would happen if one of the cells gets shorted out internally? I've seen this happen with two 12V batteries (flooded) that were connected in parallel. I'm glad they did not catch on fire. I'm thinking about simply buying two 6V batteries with the highest capacity I can find. Another option would be to get six 2V deep cycle batteries and connect them in series. I'm just not comfortable with parallel connections.

[@frankdejesus9783]

I would like to thank you Tito for making this so simple and less intimidating when I do get my system started, Thanks again

[@LoyalK9Utah]

What does the solar battery wires connect to which posts as well as the house cables?

[@RVwithTito]

You'll probably be running the solar charge controller output to a busbar connected to the battery pos/neg.

[@LoyalK9Utah]

On what post A1-2 and B1-2 did you re-attach your DC power meter back to. I can't seem to get mine to work now.

[@KodyKline]

I always come back to this video if I ever have a question as I bought exact same batteries...following your lead. I actually remove my batteries from the coach even though I have solar & solar charger to them. Thanks again for your quality videos and support of the RV community!!! Happy 2019 to you and family Tito.

[@RVwithTito]

Glad to help. Thanks Kody!

[@doolittles5]

How much$$$

[@dedalliance1]

So can you connect 2 6v batteries in series into a 12v battery, and then connect that '12v battery' in parallel to 2 or 3 other normal 12v batteries? I just bought a fifth wheel camper and I have 2 6v I had in my truck camper, but I also have 2 12v batteries I used for my trolling motor and the fifth wheel camper came with 1 12v battery so now I have to figure out what to do with all of them.

[@darrylt5300]

What about the charge controller did you need to change it? I have 650 Watts of Solar panels and two controls for each set of panels plus the converter that came with the trailer and a 3000 Watt inverter and 4 6 Volt Trojan T105 and I am looking to change the batteries to 6 Volt Deep-Cycle Solar AGM Trojan or VMAX batteries but I think the but I think the controller need to be changed out or re-programmed for the different types of batteries????? One reason for the change is longer lasting and no water to add LOL.

[@RVwithTito]

+Darryl T Yes. Going from flooded to AGM, I did change the charging profile on my TriStar MPPT solar charge controller to the sealed/AGM setting which basically lowers the charging voltage by 0.2 volts.

[@vulvo4763]

Can you connect two 6v battery with one 12v battery

[@JBMotorrad]

Very helpful and clear demonstration!

[@RVwithTito]

Glad it helped you out.

[@colinspeake..8889]

Hi Brian,I have just purchased four of these batteries Same spec..My dilema is that i want 24 volts in total ..Is this possible.

[@RVwithTito]

Yes. You'll have to wire all four in series (positive to negative for all 4)

[@bennyschapero2049]

Hello, I bought an 89 Georgie Boy Cruise Air lll. in the front there are 3 x 12 volt batteries. My question is 1 is for starting the engine the other 2 are for the house, they are all hooked together because when the engine is running, they all get charged. Question---Can I replace 2 x 12v house batteries with 2 x 6 volt golf cart 215 a/h batteries with the same battery conections without messing anything up? Meaning, can I hook them up the same way the 3 x 12 volts were? Changing to one 12v with 2 6v. batteries. Thank you.

[@lawrencelovett3466]

I currently have (4) 6 volt 125ah lead acid batteries. 2 are in parallel and the other 2 are in parallel and then they series together to equal (2) 12 volt batteries. Would (4) 12 volt lithium 100ah batteries in parallel be significantly better than what I currently have?

[@RVwithTito]

That's exactly what I have now... 400Ah of usable lithium. Yes. It's a significant upgrade from 225Ah of usable lead acid.

[@justvisiting4231]

Did you have to change your Inverter

[@RVwithTito]

Nope. Used the same 2000w inverter. The only change was to reconfigure my battery monitoring system for AGM and new capacity.

[@daveyboy8907]

I just built a 400 watt solar system with a 30 a controller. I bought 4 6 v batteries interstate with 210 each.. I purchased a 4000 watt inverter pure sine wave gained it’s a little big but I can add more batteries later.. So my question is should I wire my battery in series or Parel? Thanks sir I want a big 12 v system..

[@GaryMain-so1px]

Tito just watched your video of the 4-6volts so what did your total A/H's end up being?

[@RVwithTito]

450Ah if I remember correctly.

[@bjohnson8631]

Do the extra batteries require the on board RV charging system to have a higher charge capacity rating when connected to shore power? Plus if the batteries are discharged to 50 percent of their rating, for example, is there an issue with the RV's alternator recharging the batteries in a timely manner when traveling down the road?

[@robertmeyer4744]

great job ! love the big interconnect cables. when changing types of batteries .flooded AGM of LFP check mfg requirements for charge voltage they are different and setting for that gets the longest life. most solar charge controllers like PWM or MPPT have battery type in menu or switch. just select your type. when making a bank out of batteries make sure same ones same lot and same age . get the best life. even AGM out gas during charge just not as much. always make sure to vent h2 gas safely . don't want that to back up intp inside or rv.

[@RVgeeks]

Nice clear overview of series-parallel. Can't wait to see them in your rig. :)

[@antuliusdecastro2136]

i BOUGTH 04 FOUR ACID-BASE GOLF BATTERIES 6V/100Ah EACH FOR MY AMBULANCE CONVERSION. MY QUESTION IF SOMEBODY CAN HELP ME IS: 1. USING THE CONFIGURATION SERIES AND PARALEL CAN I HAVE A GOOD BATTERY BANK FOR MY USE?

[@theweekenddrz519]

Thank you for this video. I just didn’t this exact setup in our camper.

[@RVwithTito]

Glad it was helpful!

[@denisrst1]

how many 6volt battery can be wired in serie/paralel for my battery bank for a 12 volt system i have 12 battery 6 volt battery that need to be wired togheter for my solar system thx

[@RVwithTito]

You can wire as many 6V series pairs as you need. Sounds like you'll end up with the equivalent of 6 x 12v batteries.

[@mrrocker2755]

Wonderful video, please follow up on the install and everything beyond. As always your videos are priceless.

[@RVwithTito]

Sorry, I didn't have time to cover the actual install of the batteries which went well into the darkness of the night. I was under the gun to get it done. I do plan to do a full walkthrough of my entire solar/battery setup soon though. Thanks for the comment!

[@billbates5475]

I am assuming that this cannot be done with 2 6v batteries, correct? if this is a stupid question sorry but I am new to this

[@RVwithTito]

Sure you can. You'll just connect the two in series. In the video I connected two, then connected each pair in parallel.

[@billbates5475]

RV with Tito DIY ok so I can connect 2 6volt batteries in series AND parallel? Just double checking for safety reasons. Again I only have 2 6v batteries

[@MYCHANNELWITHMYSTUFF]

Did you balance your batteries before making a 12v bank out of them?

[@headsail]

Where do I connect a battery monitor in a setup like this?

[@RVwithTito]

Typically you'll install the Battery Monitor shunt on the negative output of the battery bank.

[@glensoloway343]

Could you explain how to charge them all now and using a 12 volt charger right to the 1 positive post and 1 negative post.

[@svtautosales3613]

Same as you would charge any 12 v single battary. Its one big battary now

[@PhotoAlbert]

Very nice video Brian! I don't know much about battery power but your demonstration was very easy to follow! I am wondering what all you can power in your RV with this setup?

[@RVwithTito]

+Al D We can power everything we need now for more than a day or two. We still use propane for water heater, fridge and furnace and don't use air conditioning.

[@jamesbryner9371]

Super helpful!! Trying to figure out the best way to get our solar set up for our Sprinter project. This was really clear without any BS...Thank you!!!

[@svg09851]

I noticed you did two series and one parallel connection. Would it be the same if you did two parallel and one series connection so you could split the battery banks up?

[@ReversePeople]

Great vid! Thank you! How close (in voltage) should each of the batteries be before connecting them in series? Is a tenth of a volt close enough or should it be within a few hundredths? For example, when connecting two 12v Battle Born LFP batteries in series, if one is at 13.10v and the other is 13.20v, is that close enough? Thank you kindly.

[@RVwithTito]

The battery bank output will be equal to the lowest powered battery. Keep that in mind. Connect them together and let them sit for a day to equalize. Then check the voltage.

[@ReversePeople]

RV with Tito DIY Thanks again.

[@michaelcrawford3663]

Fantastic video super helpful :) So assuming weight and space is not an issue how many of these can I safely add together to keep getting more amp hours ?

[@DenverDave2]

I just bought 8 - 60 watt equivalent light bulbs for 110 watts for about 50 cents a piece. The price for 12 volt LED lights (shopping around) seems to be about $10 a piece. Are we being ripped off or is there a better source for LED lights to replace camper 12 volt bulbs?

[@nameyourchannel7844]

Great info for anyone new to it or doesnt know. Good video, thanks.

[@kirbylake9564]

I am wondering if they are actually hooked up wrong. WHen you ran them in parallel do you not have to run the negative to negative and positive to positive for the separate 12 volt series banks. You ran them from the same series banks instead of separate. Or does it not matter?

[@RVwithTito]

What you said is correct and that's how they are connected. The outer cables are the series connections. The inner cables are the parallel connections (pos to pos, neg to neg)

[@zanefore3497]

What gauge cables did you use?

[@RVwithTito]

#1/0

[@lacey1948]

I am using 2-6v 215 amp batteries hooked up consecutive. I want to increase my b bank. Can I add 1 more 6v 215 amp battery in parallel thereby gaining amps or will I need 2 more 6v 215 amp batteries giving me 4 batteries hooked up the way you demonstrate ?

[@RVwithTito]

+Ron Lacey You'll need to connect two 6 volts in series, then add those to the existing pair in parallel to get your 12 volt battery bank. Depending on the age and condition of your existing batteries you may want to replace them all.

[@christianhaggerty1170]

how are the Vmax batteries doing after long term use?

[@RVwithTito]

As far as AGMs go, they've been great.

[@takayama1638]

Thanks Tito. I'm still a bit rusty on how to do this, so I'll watch next one to see how you connect to RV...

[@zheneggmobile]

yes but can you address the difference between doing series first then parallel, or parallel first then series.

[@RVwithTito]

The end result (output) would be the same. I dont believe there would be an advantage or disadvantage either way.

[@Yukonjackman1]

Hi Brian,,,So is a 48 volt (6 x 8 volt) system possibly charged by a 100 watt 12 volt solar panel used as a trickle charger ,,,,, yes i finally bought a battery golf cart

[@RVwithTito]

I depends on your charger and your battery bank's current state of charge. Charging voltage needs to be higher than the battery voltage in order to push current into the battery.

[@octoma]

Correct me if I'm wrong. Each Battery is 225AH x 4 = 900AH. The 50% use rule means you have 450 usable AH at 5.4 KW per day. You can burn all of that 450AH safely, without damage to the battery if you don't touch the other 450, and can bring it back up to charge.

[@dude999642]

I think when you CONNECT the two 6V batteries together they are 225AH total, but I could be wrong.

[@budlina12]

When you connect two 6 volt, 225aH batteries in series, the result is 12 volts still with 225ah total. In series, volts increase but the ah does not. When you connect those same batteries in parallel, the result is 6 volts with 450 ah. In parallel, the voltage remains 6, but the ah double. The problem with this in an RV is the system is a 12 volt system, so you need your 6 volt batteries in series to give you 12 volts. However, if you do as Tito did, and connect two 6 volt 225 ah hours in series to make 12 volts, 225 ah, and then connected the other two in series to achieve the same 12 volts with 225 ah, then connect the first two to the second two, as Tito did, the results configuration is 12 volts total with 450 ah. Because 6 volt batteries have fewer plate in them, you can theoretically drain the more than 50% with little to no damage, unlike one 12 volt battery with 6 plates inside. The rule of thumb is to not deplete more than 50% because batteries do suffer damage below this threshold, 6 volt batteries less damaged than 12 volt. So in Tito’s configuration, while he has 450 ah by joining the 4 batteries in series/parallel, he actually only has 225 ah of useable energy before reaching the 50% threshold. I hope that makes sense.

[@octoma]

@@budlina12 Thank you for clarifying. It does get a little confusing for me.

[@DenverDave2]

It looks like you are using a Commercial Electric multimeter, which is what I have (MS8132A). Which model do you prefer?. Mine measures AC and DC volts and resistance, but I don't think it measures current - so I'm wondering how fast I'm charging, but don't know - just watching the voltage on the charge controller - is there a better way. I seem to be having a heck of a time with multimeters.

[@RVwithTito]

The multi-meters I use are listed here (kit.com/rvwithtito/favorite-shop-tools). For DC current, a clamp meter is the best and easiest to use (about $40). The other meter I use is also pretty inexpensive but works great for me (basic features, great display, big numbers, and integrated stand). It even comes with a temperature probe.

[@granthams4u]

DenverDave2 take your volts then divide by resistance , that gives you amps.. Also amps times volts gives you watts

[@DenverDave2]

Thanks - Volts x Amps = Watts Let's see so my two 6 volt golf cart batteries hooked in series. Each is 6 volt 105 min (assume minutes) and 75 AMPS. I think in series this gives 12 volts but still 75 AMPs (not sure about this) and maybe still only 105 minutes. 12 volts x 75 AMPs = 900. Not sure what to do with the minutes. I think that we are only supposed to use 20 % of the battery, so does this give 900 x 20% = 180 watts for I'm guessing an hour? If so, better get those light bulbs replaced with LEDs. Basically not sure how to use the information about how long I could run a 100 watt light bulb or by extension a 10 watt LED?

[@PentaxLife]

Very nice video. Just installed some big 6v flooded they Are only 350lbs. In our 5th wheel toy hauler.and Solar 2.8KW just waiting on the mail man For the midnight classic 150v.

[@RVwithTito]

2.8KW of solar...wow! Where did you find the room on your roof?

[@jamessomraty8721]

Nice video and lots on good info, Will be doing something similar for our campervan. why those 6v batts though? There seem to be many better options via Amazon, AGMs with 12v 200AH @ 100lbs? about the same AH and under half the weight and only one bat? I'm new to this so many there is something I'm missing.

[@RVwithTito]

Thanks James. You would actually need two of those 200 AH 12V batteries in parallel to get 400 AH total. The total weight would still be 200 lbs. With the four 225 AH 6 volts I could get an extra 50 AH of capacity. I did consider the 2x12v option though when making my choice.

[@jamessomraty8721]

ha, ic. Didn't know they were 225 each. So you will end up with 450 w/212.5 usable AH? Is that right?

[@jamessomraty8721]

sorry, ment 225

[@rubenalmada145]

Where did you get those batteries. I currently already have 2 6v Trojan T-105s and going to be adding solar and have been looking at adding two more batteries.

[@RVwithTito]

+Ruben Almada HI Ruben. Links are in the description. I ordered them from Amazon.

[@nameyourchannel7844]

Ruben Almada -I've read that trojans are one of the best... If youre looking for more, maybe stick with that brand

[@rubenalmada145]

I have read that also. Was just wondering and lately they aren't holding a good charge. I think I ran them down to many times. I know how to check the status of a battery on a car but not sure how to tell if my 5th wheel battery is going bad

[@diybatterypower]

Ruben Almada Trojan makes great flooded batteries, VMAX specializes in high performance AGM batteries

[@jimsjacob]

Nice! But you’ve since gone to Lithium, correct? I have a single 400 AmpHr. AGM battery and it has to be reaching it EOL. I noted that it’s not as robust as it once was and I need to decide on the Solar/Lithium bundle. Too many questions for me... Brian, do you have forum where you field questions/discuss topics? I bet you’d get lambasted with questions, but I have wanted to run some past you. Anyhow, this was more great content. Thanks!!

[@RVwithTito]

Yes. I've been on lithium batteries for 2 years now. There's a lot of info on my website. Go check it out.

[@ChrisDIYerOklahoma]

*LOVE* your videos man. Great choice on batteries!

[@terryrussell5392]

Hey Brian, thanks for the tips , in buying a 6 volt battery do you ask for a sealed deep cycle battery or they know if you buy a 6 volt one.

[@RVwithTito]

+Terry Russell It depends what you are looking for. There are several types of 6 volt batteries (flooded, sealed lead acid, and AGM). For years now I've been using flooded (not sealed) 6 volt batteries that I got from Costco. They say "Golf Cart Battery" on the side and 210 Ah and 6 volt on the specs. Sealed simply means maintenance free.

[@terryrussell5392]

ok I guess I was trying to say was AGM 6 volt, so I don't have to worry about putting water in them all the time. so that's good tks again

[@Santiago-vs1un]

I am here to ask if anybody knows if you have two solar batteries on your travel trailer hooked up to 400 watts of solar power and you don't use the power everyday are you going to mess up your batteries or your solar system

[@conradsalinas4014]

Hey Brian - Thanks for the great videos, very well done and excellent information. I have a Class C RV that currently use a Marine 12V Battery (use to start the on board Gen), but I really loved your idea in using four 6V batteries in Series and Parallel set-up and thinking of copying it. However, I have few a few my questions and would really appreciate it if you can help out or direct me in the right direction to get the answers. 1) If I do switch over to the four 6V battery set-up, would this still be able to start the Generator? 2) Is the converter stronger enough to charge this set-up or to I need to upgrade my converter? and 3) Would this set-up put a strain on the alternator trying charge a large battery bank?

[@rafaelyorro4466]

Question! I have a 12 volts inverter 1600watts,for 2 6v batteries,but I want to wire 2 more,total of 4,is it posible?

[@RVwithTito]

Yes you can. It'll work but... It's better practice if all batteries are the same age and type. The battery bank will be pulled down to the weakest battery.

[@stormstrike1845]

How would I do this with 6 batteries

[@DennisWintjes2]

Why did you choose AGM vs. LiIon? Budget?

[@RVwithTito]

+Dennis Wintjes Primarily budget and simplicity.

[@patrickmckowen2999]

RVwithTito Short sighted thinking- over life cycle lead/AGM not the way to go vs lifepo4 or lion But great how to vid overall Cheers

[@penguin272]

what is the benefit of using 6V batteries to get 12V?

[@RVwithTito]

It really depends on the type of 12 volt battery. If you have true 12 volt deep cycle batteries, then there should be no difference in theory. However, some 12v batteries are actually dual purpose (deep cycle / starter batteries - also called marine batteries). Generally, if the battery has a cold cranking amp (CCA) rating on it, then it's not solely for deep cycle use. If the battery only has an amp hour rating, then it''s a better bet for regular deep cyle use. That's how you can tell. Of course, marine batteries will also work adequately for deep cycle use also. 6 volt batteries are usually guaranteed to be true deep cycle batteries and have more lead. That is why some folks prefer them for off-grid and boondocking. It's really personal preference though and there are many opposing opinions out there regarding which is better. I've used both but have been using 6 volts for the last 6 years. Hope that helps.

[@fourzerofour7860]

Nice batteries, hope that they serve you well.

[@russellk.bonney8534]

Why not connect the center 6v connections together for better equalization of the charge. Has anyone done this?

[@legaleagleandpaws8198]

How many watts of solar do you have on the roof?

[@RVwithTito]

+RV Legal Eagles & Paws Roughly 550 watts.

[@jeremyobanion8994]

70 pounds each lol mine are 130 pounds each. I went with Trojan L16RE-B Flooded Lead Acid 6V Deep Cycle Battery 370Ah. the worlds best solar battery. .At least from my research they are.Cost a pretty penny but should have a life span of 5 to 8 years with 5 year warranty. Shipping would have cost 400 or more so I drove 100 miles each way to save some cash.I live in the mid west and got the batteries in KC. Mo.4 cost me $1629. and I am starting with 8 100 watt panels and will add 8 more in weks to come. just looking to see if I might want more than that. when I seen you say that your battiers was 70 pounds I was like hahaha you should try lifting mine. I want to get 4 more but man I would like someone else to lift them to my battiey box. I am getting a truck cart to move them when I do . But I am glad to see so many people going solar. even if you don't pick a good battery like mine you are still saving theEARTH. and for that I think you.

[@wedmark]

Why 4x6v instead of 2x12v? Any specific advantages?

[@kirbylake9564]

6 volt batteries are designed to have more capacity than 12. So it makes more sense to run 4 - 6 volt than 2 -12 volt

[@Guzzirodo]

Why not just 2 12 volt AGM instead of 4 6 volt?? Thanks

[@RVwithTito]

Sure that's an option as well. I like the way the four batteries fit in the compartment. They filled the space better for more capacity. I was originally looking at two 12V though.

[@fxtacy]

@@RVwithTitoDoesn't 4 6 volt batteries in a series parallel configuration give you greater Ah capacity than 2 12 volt in parallel.

[@sandypayne8240]

Absolutely

[@golfnut2599]

Great video, I see you chose Vmax batteries, did you look at the Lifeline brand of batteries?

[@RVwithTito]

I am familiar with Lifeline and have heard great things about them from other RVers.

[@giottodiotto1]

Remember, the capacitie of lead batteries is rated at a C/20rate the capacitie of Lifepo4 is rated at C/1rate so as soon as you put a serious load on a lead battery, even a AGM the voltage wil sag and your fancy socold 100Ah bat behaves like a 20Ah (when your lucky) internal resistance is also way higher than on lithium cells, so you really Need those thick cabling before you start a fire, for small loads (Led lighting or so) lead still has a place but in the long run you will be much happier with lithium

[@robertthompson6958]

Great video Brian.

[@karer-ggj4jbdfi6]

Great video, thanks Peter From England

[@DarrenCharron]

I just bought four 6 volt batteries I am going hook them up for a 24 volt system

[@wonderingtimesllc7203]

Why is a Red dot flashing on your B 1 battery?

[@RVwithTito]

+Wondering Times That's probably a reflection from the camera recording light above.

[@umgozy]

How do you do 6 batteries so 3 12volt batterie banks

[@RVwithTito]

+umgozy That's right. Wire each pair in series for 12v each. Then wire the three pairs together in parallel.

[@SteveB357]

Why 6v instead of 12v?

[@MrEdsster]

How many will you need to run a microwave? Say a 900 watt micro? I don't think the sun will stay around long enough here in Olympia to charge the batteries. I do want to go solar but can't live without the microwave. Thanks for the videos

[@RVwithTito]

I can run my microwave with what I have now. I just don't while boondocking. We've actually learned to live without it. I couldn't run it with my 210 ah battery bank though. It would draw too much power initially during the surge. With this battery bank and 2KW inverter, my wife can even run her 1900 watt blow dryer. Crazy, but it's working.

[@MrEdsster]

My wife is a microwave genius.. :) That's why I asked. So far we haven't boondocked in our class B but I'm going to make sure we do sometime this summer. Thanks for the videos. Strange spring here in Wershington this year.

[@ekoms108]

@@MrEdsster you simply buy more solar panels if you are in a cloudy area. Solar panels are 50 cents a watt now

[@MrEdsster]

@@ekoms108 we moved to alabama so we get more sunshine. Still have the class b so not much room for solar panels. I'm thinking about a covered trailer fo pull behind and I'm could put solar on top of that. Now that I'm retired I'll be playin with different things.

[@fac3th3wolf]

why didn't you hang on to your original 2 batteries for a 6-battery bank?

[@RVwithTito]

+Sean Miller I still have them, but they are a smaller size than the new ones. Also...no more room in that compartment. I'll use them to power something at home like landscape lights or something.

[@fac3th3wolf]

RVwithTito Say you did have extra room in the compartment, is it okay to parallel connect the smaller batteries with the larger ones?

[@roydavis2242]

I have been told the reason they use 2 six volt batteries in series instead of 1 twelve volt is because the six volts last longer and can be drained to 30% or lower without harming the batteries at all. Otherwise you might as well just use twelve volt batteries.

[@davisonthomas4697]

Why would you use 4, 6V batteries instead of 2, 12V batteries? Not a critique, I'm trying to learn.

[@10elysee]

s

[@10elysee]

Hi, how can I connect 12 batteries 6 vols in series and parallel to get 12 volt

[@kawarthaleather6659]

I like your videos and am a big fan..... Steve

[@RVwithTito]

+STEVE'S BOOKS Hi Steve! So glad to have you here in our tiny corner of KZbin. Cheers!

[@pagansunburn2148]

I am just curious as to why you didn't just buy a 12V 1,000Ah marine battery. It would have cost less and given you more than enough capacity at 12V. Also, the weight difference would have been substantial.

[@prairiehoarder]

THICKER plates in the 6 volt.

[@dcordero1]

Great video Brian! Shortly after watching your video I added two more AGM's to my battery bank. Next is one or two more solar panels. I read below that you plan on uploading a video on the actual installation. Do you plan on showing a video on the battery location modification you made to strengthen the storage bin? I have a Class C similar toyours and that modification would have probably helped me and saved me some $$. Thanks - Ray

[@RVwithTito]

Awesome! I don't think I'll be doing a video on the mod to the storage bay. I have pictures, but didn't take video. I would be glad to share a couple with you if you send me an email. What I basically did was take a couple metal pieces (1 "L" shaped and 1 flat piece) from Home Depot. The "L" shaped piece supports the the bottom of the bin and is bolted to the flat piece which cut and I bent to extend beyond the bin and around the supporting cross braces of my RV. The ends are bolted together to tighten it up. I can hold a lot of weight now.

[@howardpack]

excellent job

[@SailingCorina]

There are actually 2 ways to accomplish the same result which had me very confused since I wired my bank the other way. You can connect two 6V batteries together using both.Positive to Positive and Negative to Negative terminals to make 12V. Then do the same to the other two 6V batteries. Then you use ONE cable to connect the two sets together using a Positive to Negative. Then your load will come off of a positive of one pair and the Negative of the Second pair. This provides the same result but is connected differently Both ways should be explained so someone like myself doesn't "think" they did it incorrectly when actually there are two ways to skin this cat.

[@jimmydeen58]

Great Video Thanks..

[@RVwithTito]

Thanks Jimmy.

[@LetsRVtv]

Great video. 👍

[@ManWander]

given the batteries you had were fine why didnt you just add two more?

[@RVwithTito]

+jMon The main reason: I wanted AGMs with more capacity. My other ones are standard flooded batteries that have less capacity than the new ones. With the shape of the new ones I could get more batteries in the compartment. My old batteries were a little wider and I could maybe only get 3 in there. Had I stuck with original type of batteries I would have purchased 4 new ones anyway since mine are several years old. Combining old with new batteries is usually not recommended for best results.

[@sdanwar7860]

Sir application e bike 6 battery 12v to 48v how to 48v day send plees

[@jackmason7518]

Thank You. Jack

[@RVwithTito]

You're welcome Jack!

[@obviouslytad]

It’s important to note that the reason that you should only use about 50% of the battery’s capacity is because you will start to do damage to the battery. You can (typically) safely use 50% of the capacity, which should be regulated by load controller (via temperature compensated voltage measurement). You can use 100% of the capacity but you will be replacing the batteries in a year or two. No thank you.

[@DrDre-sy2kv]

i have connected 7 battery of 6000mAh capacity but my multimeter still reads it 6000mAh. though by theory, it should be 6×7=42000mAh. please throw some light.

[@SailingCorina]

Connected in Series increases Voltage but not Amperage. Connecting them in Parallel increases Amperage but not Voltage. If I knew if you are connecting 6V or 12V batteries I can help you. If they are 6V and you have 7 batteries connected then it is definently incorrect because 6V must be connected in pairs to make a 12V bank. With 6V batteries you do both Series and Parallel to increase Voltage to 12V and increase the Amperage. Two 6V batteries make 12V but do not double the amperage but combining pairs of 6V (now 12V) together increases the amp hours but not voltage. In your case, if the amperage is not increasing then the batteries are all connected in Series but then your voltage would be reading 7 batteries at 6v = +/- 42V or 7 batteries at 12V = +/- 84V