Now here's what we are currently thinking our use will be:
- - We don't think that we need 240v in the van as everything we have can run from 12v - however I'd prefer to keep our options open for possible future upgrade as much as possible.
- We'll be running a Waeco compressor fridge, stereo, some internal lighting, sink pump, Propex and a few USB sockets from leisure. No DVD, TV or PlayStation.
- We're keeping a tin-top, so space will be at a premium, so we want to use a single leisure battery under the passenger seat.
- We're intending to use the van for short breaks rather than long holidays, so we're quite happy to drive it every couple of days to keep the battery topped up, but we like the Sterling units as they compress this journey distance to something reasonable, rather than a trip half way across the country.
- If the intention of the previous statement does quite work out, then we may want to add a solar panel to help keep things topped up.
So, the big question, which unit to go for Alternator to Battery or Battery to Battery? When you buy them new, they're pretty much the same price.
From my reading, it seems that B2B offers more flexibility as it will manage whatever source is charging the starter battery, therefore with the B2B in place we would only need to add either a solar or a mains battery charger to charge the starter battery and the leisure charging would be sorted out by the Sterling unit. So Question 1 is : Is this correct? and Question 2 is : would this also apply to an A2B charger, or is it more complicated?
The A2B is smaller than the B2B, but does anyone know if it is small enough to fit under either the driver or passenger seat in front of the battery compartment? (question 3). If it is, then is, then can a B2B fit in the same space? (question 4). If either of them fit, is there enough airflow under there to allow the units to work ok? (question 5).
All your comments would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.