What is the Difference Between a Converter and a Charger?
An AC-DC Converter (or AC-DC Power Supply) is used to convert 120 or 240 VAC power to filtered 12 to 13.8 volt DC power to run DC appliances while connected to “shore power” instead of running on “house” battery power. Converters are normally voltage regulated to provide a constant supply of DC power and if the voltage is high enough, partially recharge a battery. To fully recharge a battery, you will need 14.1 to 14.8 volts at 80 degrees F, depending on the battery type. If you use a converter or converter/inverter, then you should fully charge your batteries at least once per week. While connected to shore power, a better solution is to temporarily separate the house load from the house batteries, use the converter to run your house load, and use a “smart” charger to recharge and maintain your house batteries. A manual battery charger is designed to recharge a battery and typically produces higher voltages. An automatic or “smart” battery charger is designed to stop charging when a p
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