Is There a Device to Automatically Disconnect My Battery When the Voltage Is Low?
28 February 2021 · 5 min · 12K views
What this video covers
Low voltage disconnects (LVDs) automatically sever power to boat electrical loads when battery voltage drops to a pre-set threshold, typically between 10.5 and 12 volts.1:28 While these devices prevent deep discharge and potential battery damage, they operate without situational awareness.1:43 An LVD cannot distinguish between routine power management and critical emergencies, such as a vessel taking on water or requiring VHF radio communication.2:30 If an LVD triggers during a crisis, it may disable essential equipment like bilge pumps, navigation electronics, or water pumps exactly when they are most needed.1:41 Because these devices prioritize battery health over vessel safety, they remove the operator's ability to intentionally sacrifice battery longevity to maintain power for vital systems.3:37 Relying on an LVD creates a risk of losing power during high-stakes scenarios where the operator would otherwise choose to tolerate battery damage to keep the boat operational.4:23
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