Do I need vents on my console?

[Tim M]

My console houses my battery. I was wondering whether I should install an air vent in the console to allow gases produced by the battery when charging to escape. I've seen lots of RIBs with little vents on the console so it got me thinking.....

[Richard B]

Originally Posted by Tim M

air vent in the console to allow gases produced by the battery when charging .....

You should only need this when you're fast charging on 240 volts, but then you'll have a hatch ajar to run the cable through.

[jwalker]

Originally Posted by Tim M

...I was wondering whether I should install an air vent in the console to allow gases produced by the battery when charging to escape.....

Yes, especially if you have switches with their rears also inside the consol.

[Tim M]

So to clarify, I should have one even if I'm not charing it off the mains.....

(And yes there are switches backing into this area)

[codprawn]

Originally Posted by Richard B

You should only need this when you're fast charging on 240 volts, but then you'll have a hatch ajar to run the cable through.

Surely most batteries will vent anyway??? Especially if the alternator is producing too much charge as can often happen.

[Richard B]

It's all about how much hydrogen the battery will give off, of course... We have a sealed console without venting, a healthy alternator and battery, and we haven't blown up yet! I do take care with venting when charging from the mains, however. Our console does have cut-outs that go into the hull to route pipes, and there is a small amount of ventilation around some of the grommets on top. Maybe that's enough for our setup, is yours completely sealed Tim, or does it have any small holes? I'm also assuming that your fuel tank isn't in the same console.

[Tim M]

Console is totaly sealed; waterprood hatch etc. Only way out which isn't sealed is a small hole where cables etc go out at the back. Fuel is indeed seperate.

Maybe I'll just add one anyway; make a nice afternoon project!

[Richard B]

Originally Posted by Tim M

Maybe I'll just add one anyway

I guess it wouldn't hurt - just be careful where you fit it. My choice would be high up to minimise water ingress.

[Tim M]

Is hydrogen dense compared to "air" - is high up nessesserily the best venting position?

[Richard B]

Originally Posted by Tim M

Is hydrogen dense compared to "air"...

Think Zeppelin...