Electrical Shunts & RV Power Management

When it comes to managing power in your RV, an electrical shunt is one of the most essential components. This small yet powerful device enables precise tracking of energy usage and battery health, a must-have for RV owners who spend time off-grid or rely heavily on their battery systems. Understanding what an electrical shunt does, why it's crucial for RV applications, and exploring some of the leading brands in the market can help you make the best choice for your power management setup.

What is an Electrical Shunt?

In simple terms, an electrical shunt is a low-resistance resistor that's placed in series with your battery. When current flows through the shunt, it creates a small but measurable voltage drop, which is used to determine the real-time current flowing in and out of the battery. Unlike voltage-only monitors, which can be imprecise due to fluctuations, a shunt provides accurate current measurement, giving a comprehensive view of power usage and remaining battery capacity.

Why Shunts Are Essential for RVs

For RV owners, shunts provide several key benefits:

• Accurate Power Monitoring: Shunts offer real-time current tracking, providing more accurate data than voltage-only systems. This is particularly important for lithium battery systems, where precise management is crucial to avoid over-discharging.
• Extended Battery Life: By continuously monitoring charge and discharge cycles, a shunt helps avoid the stress that can shorten battery life. With accurate tracking, you can manage power demands efficiently and keep your battery in top shape.
• Enhanced Power Planning: Knowing exactly how much power is available allows you to make informed decisions about usage. This is especially helpful when boondocking or staying in remote areas, ensuring you're never caught off guard by low battery levels.

Top Electrical Shunts for the RV Market

When it comes to shunt-based monitoring systems, several brands stand out for their reliability and compatibility with RV power systems. Let's take a look at some of the best options available: BMPRO, Enerdrive, and Projecta.

BMPRO Shunts

Precision Integration for Cohesive Power Management

BMPRO is known for its advanced, integrated power management systems designed specifically for the RV market. The BMPRO PXShunt is a high-quality 500A shunt that works seamlessly with BMPRO's power management systems, including the Odyssey app and wall-mounted displays.

• High-Capacity Monitoring: With a 500A capacity, the BMPRO PXShunt provides precise current measurements even for high-demand appliances, giving RV owners a comprehensive view of their power status.
• Seamless Integration: Designed to work with BMPRO systems, the PXShunt allows you to monitor power directly from the Odyssey app or display. This integration provides easy access to real-time data, so you can optimize your battery usage effortlessly.
• Scalable Power Management: BMPRO systems are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to add components like the BMPRO PurePro Inverter or ProBoost40 for expanded power needs, such as running appliances or adding more solar panels.

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Enerdrive ePRO PLUS Battery Monitor

Universal, Comprehensive and User-Friendly 500A Shunt

Enerdrive's ePRO PLUS Battery Monitor with a 500A shunt is another popular choice, ideal for RVers who want a full view of their battery system's health and performance.

• Detailed Monitoring Features: The ePRO PLUS provides real-time metrics on amp-hours used, charge cycles, voltage, and estimated remaining battery life. This level of insight is invaluable for both lead-acid and lithium batteries.
• User-Friendly Display and Interface: The ePRO PLUS's display is bright, backlit, and easy to navigate, making it accessible for users of all experience levels. The data is easy to interpret, helping RV owners make quick, informed power management decisions.
• Low Battery Alarms and Data Logging: With customizable low-battery alarms, you're alerted to critical power levels. The data logging function also records historical data, allowing you to analyze usage patterns and make adjustments as needed.

Enerdrive ePRO PLUS Battery Monitor + 500A Shunt

$495

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Enerdrive ePRO Plus USB Bluetooth Dongle

$220

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Projecta Intelli-RV Shunt

Reliable, Smart Monitoring with Remote Access

The Projecta Intelli-RV Shunt offers an ideal solution for RVers who value durability, advanced monitoring, and the convenience of remote access. Projecta is well-regarded for its RV-ready power products, and the Intelli-RV shunt is no exception.

• Rugged, RV-Ready Design: Built to withstand the conditions of RV travel, the Intelli-RV shunt is durable and performs reliably even in extreme temperatures or while driving on rough terrain.
• Integrated with Intelli-RV Systems: Designed for compatibility with Projecta's Intelli-RV systems, this shunt provides real-time data that's easily accessible via Projecta's mobile app or central display. This integration is perfect for users who want a cohesive, easy-to-navigate system.
• Customizable Alerts for Critical Power Levels: The Intelli-RV shunt comes with customizable alerts, ensuring that RV owners are always aware of low-battery situations. This feature is crucial for powering critical devices, such as medical equipment or refrigerators, during extended off-grid stays.

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Choosing the Right Electrical Shunt for Your RV

All three brands - BMPRO, Enerdrive, and Projecta - offer high-quality shunt options, each catering to different needs and preferences. Here's a quick summary to help you decide:

• BMPRO PXShunt: Ideal for those using BMPRO power systems or looking for a highly integrated, scalable solution with centralized control.
• Enerdrive ePRO PLUS: Best for users without an existing monitor seeking detailed battery insights, data logging, and a user-friendly interface compatible with a variety of battery types.
• Projecta Intelli-RV Shunt: Perfect for RVers who need a rugged, app-integrated system with remote access, designed to endure the rigors of RV travel.

Conclusion

Electrical shunts are a cornerstone of effective power management in RVs, providing accurate, real-time monitoring that allows you to make the most of your battery system. Whether you're focused on extending battery life, preventing over-discharge, or simply enjoying peace of mind on remote adventures, the right shunt can make all the difference.

With options from BMPRO, Enerdrive, and Projecta, there's a shunt-based solution to suit every RV owner's needs. Embracing one of these reliable, precise shunt systems will ensure that your RV's power management is efficient, accurate, and ready for all of life's adventures on the open road.