How do you know if your batteries are getting charged enough? If there’s enough power to watch a movie? If your solar panels or wind generator are sufficient? Do you need to run the generator?
There’s a simple device that will give you just the info you need.
Link to item mentioned in the show:
Victron Battery Monitor on Amazon
Prefer to read? Check out Monitoring the Batteries
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Carolyn Shearlock has lived aboard full-time for 17 years, splitting her time between a Tayana 37 monohull and a Gemini 105 catamaran. She’s cruised over 14,000 miles, from Pacific Mexico and Central America to Florida and the Bahamas, gaining firsthand experience with the joys and challenges of life on the water.
Through The Boat Galley, Carolyn has helped thousands of people explore, prepare for, and enjoy life afloat. She shares her expertise as an instructor at Cruisers University, in leading boating publications, and through her bestselling book, The Boat Galley Cookbook. She is passionate about helping others embark on their liveaboard journey—making life on the water simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.
Anonymous says
I swear sometimes, it’s like you are ON our boat with us! We had to “surprise” replace our house batteries this week, this is very helpful ..next time, no surprise!
Dieter Hugel says
Carolyn – thank you very much for posting this article! Was wondering if you know of or could publish anything regarding fuel gauges/sending units? I have been having a devil of a time trying to find one that is somewhat reliable.! Thanks again and look forward to your next newsletter.
Dieter Hugel
s/v Tigi Too
Carolyn Shearlock says
I don’t have that info. Our fuel gauges are notoriously unreliable and we now just use a stick. Low tech but accurate. Color the stick black with a Sharpie and it’s a lot easier to see the diesel on it.
Matthew Dehn says
tank tender while not cheap makes an excellent fuel guage