What is the purpose of installing an auxiliary battery in a car?
2 Answers
"Auxiliary battery" refers to an external power source relative to the vehicle's original battery. These are two separate entities. The term "auxiliary battery" is primarily used in the context of charging sequence. Its functions are as follows: 1. Powering the generator: Most conventional fuel-powered vehicles are equipped with an "onboard charging" system. The basic principle involves the engine belt driving the generator to operate. 2. Charging the original vehicle battery: During the entire driving process (or while idling), the onboard generator does not stop working just because the original vehicle battery is fully charged. Since the capacity of the original battery is limited, the car's auxiliary battery can fully charge the original battery within 10~15 minutes after startup.
The main purpose of installing an auxiliary battery is to provide additional power to prevent excessive drain on the main battery and increase driving flexibility. I often use navigation or listen to music when parked, and the main battery only starts the engine. With an auxiliary battery, I can safely power my phone, fridge, and entertainment devices without worrying about running out of power midway. This is achieved through an isolator, where the two batteries only connect when needed, avoiding interference with each other. Installation is simple, and deep-cycle batteries are usually chosen for better durability, especially ensuring all accessories operate normally during long parking periods. Regular maintenance checks on the connections can save a lot of hassle, extend the main battery's lifespan, and reduce unexpected expenses. For me, it's a practical piece of equipment.