Explain Three Step Charging?

Question:

I have a 2007 formula 31 PC. I currently have four 6V flooded golf cart batteries totalling 464Ah. I also have a 7.3kW genset with a transfer switch at my main panel between shore power and generator. I have a 60A battery charger mounted in my engine compartment. I am looking to install an inverter/charger. I don't seem to have enough charging capacity as I seem to have to run my genset for hours after getting down over 100Ah.

Answer:

Hi Fred,

When your battery bank is down to only 100 Ah, it is very near the absorption stage (85% to 100% of battery capacity) of the charger. Your fastest charging (25% of capacity) will occur at bulk stage (50% to 85% of battery capacity). When at anchor, you should be in the bulk charging range so that your charger is the most effective.