The Magnetek 6345 is a converter/inverter that is used to convert DC power from a battery into AC power. This unit is often used in RVs, boats, and other recreational vehicles.
It’s a quality component, but like all electronics, it can have some issues. If you have this unit and it is not charging the batteries, there are a few reasons why.
The most common problems include AC voltage being too low, the unit powering off on its own, or the batteries being too low.
Here is a complete guide on how to troubleshoot these issues yourself;
Magnetek 6345 Not Charging Batteries: Troubleshooting
If your batteries don’t seem to be charging, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue on your own first.
These are simple, and you shouldn’t need a professional just yet. Try all of the following things to see if you can get it fixed on your own first.
1. Check The AC Voltage
This is the first thing you should do. The minimum voltage required for this unit to work is 103 volts. If the voltage is below that, the unit won’t charge the batteries.
Check your RV’s power source or outlets to make sure the voltage isn’t too low before doing anything else. You can use a multimeter to check the voltage if you’re not sure.
Checking your RV’s power sources include checking either shore power or the generator you’re using.
If you are plugged into shore power, make sure the power source is working properly. You can check the voltage at the outlet to make sure it is within the proper range.
If you are using a generator to power the Magnetek 6345, make sure it is working properly. Sometimes generators can have issues that will cause them not to provide enough power.
Power to your RV can be tricky because while the inverter requires a minimum of 103 volts, you still have to make sure there aren’t other appliances pulling too much electricity.
Just because your power source meets the minimum voltage requirements doesn’t mean it will power the inverter correctly (and will likely cause it to make a beeping noise).
This is especially true if you’re running multiple air conditioners simultaneously or using several appliances and electronic devices at the same time.
Do a bit of research to find out how much power your particular RV needs to make sure you’re getting enough power.
2. Check The Batteries
If the AC voltage is fine, then the next thing to check is the batteries themselves.
Make sure they are properly connected and that there is no corrosion on the terminals. If everything looks good there, try charging them with a different charger to see if that works.
RV batteries should never be allowed to drain below 50% because it significantly shortens their lifespan.
If your batteries are regularly draining below 50% and you can’t seem to get them charged up, it’s time to replace them. This could be your problem.
In addition, most RV batteries are only made to last about 5 years, so if your batteries are this old or older, you’re lucky. It’s probably time to replace them so that all systems work properly.
3. Check The Magnetek 6345
If the batteries seem to be fine, then the next thing to check is the unit itself.
Make sure all of the connections are tight and that there is no corrosion or damage to the unit. You can also try resetting it by disconnecting and reconnecting the power.
Magnetek is a well-known brand that produces quality products, but that doesn’t mean that sometimes you may deal with faulty equipment.
One of the main reasons a Magnetek 6345 malfunctions is because of a loose connection. This usually happens with the wires that are running to the batteries or the unit itself.
4. Check Your Wiring
If all of the above is working properly, then the next thing to check is your wiring. Make sure all of the connections are tight and that there is no damage to the wires, especially those running to and from the inverter.
If you notice loose wires, you can try tightening them. However, if the wires are damaged or frayed, you’ll need to replace them.
This is a job for a professional, so make sure you call someone if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.
5. Replace The Magnetek 6345
If you’ve checked all of the above and you’re still having problems, then it’s time to replace the Magnetek 6345. This is a relatively simple job that you can do yourself, but make sure you get a unit that is compatible with your RV.
You can find replacement units online or at most RV dealerships. If you don’t feel comfortable replacing it yourself, you can take it to a professional to troubleshoot the issue further.
6. Call A Professional
If you have tried all of these things and the unit still isn’t charging the batteries, then it’s time to call a professional. They will be able to diagnose the problem and get it fixed for you.
Conclusion
If your Magnetek 6345 isn’t charging the batteries, then there are a few things you can try to fix the problem;
- Check the AC voltage is 103 volts.
- Check the batteries for corrosion.
- Check the 6345 unit itself.
- Check your wiring for damage.
- Replace the 6345 unit.
If all of these things seem to be in working order, then it’s time to call a professional. Most of the time, you’ll be able to troubleshoot and fix the issue yourself without too many issues.
Through this blog, I want to share all of my hints and tips, along with reviews of the best RVing accessories. I hope this blog will help others with their RV trips, and make traveling easier for you.
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