Dual battery system refers to the use of two batteries in your four wheeler. The first battery is the ne which is factory fitted. The second battery is installed through a solenoid and helps keep the power in reserve, to be used whenever required. Not only does the second battery allow you to charge several electrical gadgets but also come in useful in situation where you might need to winch the vehicle.

The dual battery is connected to the main battery. This way both these batteries can be charged using the vehicles automated system. However the main thing to keep in mind is that both these batteries must be isolated from one another. This way the auxiliary battery won’t drain of the main battery after exhausting its own power supply.

Before you invest in a dual battery system, make sure you know these things about dual battery systems and how they work:

• You should know the alternator charge or the volt output of your vehicle’s engine. This can be done by measuring it when the vehicle is cold and then loading it by switching on the radio, head lights and the air conditioner.
• Carry out the same test when the engine is warm or running on its usual temperature. Some vehicles have an inbuilt compensators which can detect the rise in temperature and as a result drop the voltage.
• If the alternators output is13.7 volts you should opt for a DC to DC charger. If you want to increase the voltage output you would need to take your vehicle to an auto electrician.
• It should be kept in mind that DC to DC chargers tend to be a great deal more expensive than the usual solenoid systems.
• It doesn’t matter which battery system you would be using, you can never achieve a 100% charge until and unless you charge it for twelve hours straight. The best option in such case is to float charge the battery in order to ensure its longevity. This can be achieved with the help of solar charging systems or using a high quality AC mains charger.
• High cycle batteries charge a great deal faster. This makes them ideal for some people, especially those who are always on the go or use their four wheeler on a regular basis.
• On the other hand usual dual battery systems allow the batteries to be charged in less than three hour driving time. Care should be taken that the battery shouldn’t be left discharged for long period of time because this would reduce its longevity.

You have the choice of either going for onboard or portable power systems. There are pros and cons to both of these. However the portable dual battery systems can be used for a variety of other measures as well. For example it be used to supply electricity during power outages. Something which is not possible with the on board system.

Make sure that you buy the dual battery system from a trusted vendor.