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The BATTERY SWITCHES are located on the engine room forward bulkhead. There is also a
battery switch in the cabinet next to the AC/DC panel in the salon. It provides battery power to both
DC panels. Normally, leave the THURSTER/ENGINE/ GENERATOR and HOUSE SWITCHES in
the ‘ON’ position.
Note -- Do not change the position of the switches while the engines are running
or the alternator diodes will be damaged.
Change positions with the engines off.
Your 12 volt panel shows all the systems supported by your house batteries. Primarily you will be
turning on the breakers for your lights, water pressure, electronics, entertainment, etc. Automatic
bilge pumps should always be left on.
There are two 12 volt; one at the top of the stairs from the berths for cabin functions and the second
on the flybridge lower starboard side for operational functions. These include navigation and other
instruments, windlass, bilge pumps, trim tabs, deck and steaming lights, radio, etc…
Your breakers should always be turned off after every use.
House Battery Bank & Switch
The HOUSE BATTERY BANK provides power for all DC systems, except the engines and
automatic bilge pumps. When disconnected from shore power, all 12-volt devices drain the house
battery. Use devices as needed. The DC voltmeter on the DC panel can be switched between Port,
Starboard, and House Battery banks to measure charging or resting battery voltages.
When a battery bank is being charged, the voltage will read from about 13.1 volts to 14.4 volts
depending upon state-of-charge of the battery bank. When the battery bank is at rest, (that is, not
being charged), the voltmeter can give a rough indication of the state-of-charge of the battery bank.
House and engine batteries are charged by the engine ALTERNATORS while underway. The
engine/house batteries are charged by the BATTERY CHARGER when connected to shore power.
Ensure the Battery Charger and Inverter circuit breakers at the electrical panel are ON. The
GENERATOR will also charge the batteries. The inverter charges the inverter battery. This battery
is the only source of power when using the inverter to provide A/C current, so use it sparingly. (e.g.
No blow dryers or other devices requiring high power.)
Voltage (Wet Cell Battery)
Battery State
12.65 volts 100%
12.47 volts 75%
12.25 volts 50%
11.95 volts 25%
11.70 volts 0%
Safety Breaker Panel
