Setec Unit

[Andy & Leesa]

I noticed in a previous thread someone was having a problem with their Setec. My unit is plugged into mains, turned over to 12 volt, and has been for quite some time but on checking the battery charge, it shows it is only charged to the 3/4 position . The light on the front is not on, it clicks when I turn it over to 12 volt, and it is turned on at the power point. Is there something wrong maybe?
As an aside there was a chirping noise which I tried to find, thinking it was something to do with the Setec. Finally found it was the smoke alarm after a long while ! My ears aren't too good !
Andy

 

[chartrock]

Andy, one of the first things I found with my van when new was that the battery switch was mounted up side down, so that when I turned it on it was actually off. I simply removed the switch and turned it around and all good from then on. I hope your problem would be this simple.

 

[Geoff]

My setec story. Came in from cooking outside last week, just put dinner on the table and suddenly no lights. Had 240 power but nothing on 12v eg lights. Checked all the fuses, power plug etc. Thought I was up for a new unit and could see the $$ disappearing. One last check and found that while the plug was in securely, the surge protector it was plugged into had slipped out from the power point. It is a bit hard to see by torch light up under the seat! Anyway, pressed it home and hey presto, all good. Very relieved.
Also, I have noticed for some time that lights get brighter and duller. Plugged a voltmeter into the 12v outlet and noticed that voltage generally around 13.1 - 13.3 volts but every so often increases to 13.8v and lights get brighter. Battery charging switched off the whole time. Is this normal/ ok?

Cheers,
Geoff

 

[Andy & Leesa]

Thanks for your replies, but I don't think it as simple as your two remedies. I am wondering if the setec is not delivering a full charge, and wether it will if it connected to the car. Do you leave your unit charging all the time?
Regards Andy

 

[Andy & Leesa]

Geoff I am a D...head! I went out to have another look and noticed the little light on the surge protector was not on. Plug was in, protector was in, but somehow the mains had tripped out!!!!!!!!! All is o.k. now it is fully charging. YAY
Regards Andy

 

[Geoff]

Geoff I am a D...head! I went out to have another look and noticed the little light on the surge protector was not on. Plug was in, protector was in, but somehow the mains had tripped out!!!!!!!!! All is o.k. now it is fully charging. YAY
Regards Andy

Andy. Good ending and didn't cost dollars. Always good even if a little stress at the time.
I must admit I started with the trail from the power box through the van even though I had 240v.
I only turn the charger switch on prior to trip and after battery use until charged. I switch off when connected to vehicle as dealer told me it would be too much of a drain on my Vehicle charging system to do both Fridge and battery without an upgrade. If I didn' t get away as often as we do , although never often enough, I would need to do regular maintenance charging to maintain the battery.
Off to Brisbane caravan and camping show to see if I can get a good deal on new agm battery. Current one is over 7 years.
Cheers, Geoff

 

[Andy & Leesa]

Cost us a new Honda genny plus bits and pieces at the Sydney Show. Good luck but don't take the wife with you !
Andy

 

[wayne]

I leave my expanda pluged in to 240 volts all the time when at home just to keep the battery charged up is this a good thing to do or is this over the top any help please,,

 

[Andy & Leesa]

Hi Wayne, I was told by the sales person that I can leave the Setec plugged in all the time because it cuts out when the battery reaches full charge. This apparently protects the battery from over-charge. There is something in the Setec instructions about this. If you can't find it, I'll see if I can find mine.
Andy

 

[wayne]

thanks andy I feel better now I know I am not going to cook the battery or damage any thing