[copacabana]

I am about to install my new Engel fridge (MB40 drop-in model) and I came across something in the manual that left me a bit confused. They say to connect the fridge directly to the battery (with a 10a fuse near the source) and then go on to say that higher voltages can damage the compressor. I've seen my alternator put out 14.2 volts, though usually it's a bit less, and my solar panels are putting out more than 13 volts during the day. My question is this- will the higher voltage when I'm running the engine or solar charging hurt the fridge? I can't imagine a 12v fridge made for boats and RVs wouldn't be able to operate in the 12-14v range, but I'm no expert... The manual does mention that a voltage regulator should be installed if the fridge is connected to a generator to avoid surges.

Thanks in advance!

 

[mbianka]

I've got two ENGELS one about 10 years old. Both are operated off of 12 volts most of the time. I no longer have an alternator (electric propulsion) but, did at one time. I do have solar and a 120 volt charger which can output higher voltages. I have had no problems with either of the Engels.

 

[captainmurph]

If you have solar with a charge controller, I don't think you have any reason for concern.

You won't see voltages that should cause any concern from your alternator and won't from solar either - if you have a charge controller.

The problem that can result in higher voltages is mostly due to small solar installations where there is no controller. Even a small panel can generate consistent high voltages that can damage a battery (and certainly a high-efficiency compressor motor) if left unregulated.

Don't forget to report on your satisfaction with the Engel. One of there models is going into my boat late this spring and I'm always interested in first person feedback.

Murph

S/V Amalia
1965 Cal 30
Muskegon, MI

Starting The Loop In 2015

 

[Minnewaska]

I know a guy that knows the answer to this.

https://www.engel-usa.com/contact-us

I don't know, but I can say that I've heard of more than one onboard 12v device that required smooth voltage out of a regulator or charge voltages, spikes and surges would cause damage.

 

[alctel]

I've got the Engel Fridge/Freezer model and it's great. Very low power usage and the freezer side holds at -12c.

 

[hellosailor]

A nominal 12 volt system normally is charged by 1 14.4 volt alternator. And the equipment designed for "vehicle power" (car or boat) is designed to handle that. However, a bad regulator can pump out 17 volts and do all sorts of damage. Unregulated solar or wind power sources can do the same.

Some radio equipment is commonly spec'd for "13.8 volts plus or minus 15%" which means they can take 14.4 just fine, but at battery-only voltage they don't work so well.

So...you'd have to contact the maker to find out just what voltage range they prefer. Your electronics, etc. may very well prefer 13.8 to 14.4, and as long as your Engel is built the same way, your only worry would be if your system (ay part of it) exceeded that voltage. An overvoltage alarm or cut-off might not be unreasonable to ensure against that.

If your only high voltage source may be an unregulated solar panel, the easy answer there is to add a solar controller to make sure that can't be a problem.

 

[copacabana]

Thanks for the replies. I have a solar controller, so I don't think there will be any high voltage coming from the panels. I'll contact Engel, but I wanted to hear from other owners first as sometimes the manufacturer errs on the side of caution and will suggest adding a voltage regulator to avoid warranty issues.

 

[Minnewaska]

I may not follow the solar controller point very well, but I believe that only meters the charge pattern required for a given battery type. Therefore, it could be well in excess of 12v, not unlike the alternator. If the equipment is sensitive to voltage, I believe you would still require a regulator. Could be wrong.