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Hybrid Power System - Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Hybrid Power System?
A hybrid power system is an idle reduction system that runs on both battery power and fuel. This is a true hybrid – it runs off of 4 deep cycle AGM batteries for cooling and diesel fuel for heating. When the batteries reach a 12 Vdc, a diesel power unit will either start automatically or can be manually started to recharge the batteries. When operating in automatic mode, the power unit will run for 2.5 hours then automatically turn off. The heating and cooling system will continue to operate normally throughout the battery recharging process.
What are the benefits of the Hybrid Power System?
Quiet, simple installation, similar weight to average APU, very little maintenance, and virtually unlimited* cooling and heating without having to idle the truck's main engines. The Hybrid Power System could run for months on very little fuel. *limited only by the amount of diesel in the truck’s fuel tank.
Do I need to install a larger alternator?
For trucks that have extended stays in California, we recommend that an alternator with a minimum 30 amp increase over the stock OEM alternator be installed. This will allow the batteries to be fully charged in case someone is running extended time in California and they cannot run the Hybrid Power System in recharge mode.
What is recharge mode?
Recharge mode simply refers to the time when the diesel power unit is recharging the system’s batteries.
Does the Hybrid Power System meet EPA regulations?
Yes. The Hybrid Power System is certified by the EPA to conform to tier 2 emissions regulations.
Is the Hybrid Power System CARB approved?
The Hybrid Power System is EPA Tier 2 certified and C.A.R.B. compliant except for the minimal time when in recharge mode.
How much fuel does the Hybrid Power System use?
- In air conditioning mode: No fuel consumption.
- In heating mode: 0.05 gallons per hour
- In recharge mode: 0.10 gallons per hour
What is the typical install time for the Hybrid Power System?
Typical install time of the Hybrid Power System is approximately 11 to 14 hours.
Why do the batteries charge faster with the Hybrid Power System?
The Hybrid Power System provides a dedicated 110 amps of charging with no other parasitic truck draw.
How long does it typically take to re-charge batteries for the Hybrid Power System?
When the system is operated in auto mode, the batteries should recharge in 2.5 hours. If the batteries are 80% or more discharged, the system may have to cycle on and off twice. (Or the system can be operated in manual mode to re-charge the battery system.)
Will the Hybrid Power System recharge the truck batteries also?
Yes. By using the 1315-200 bi-direction separator, both the system battery bank and the truck's batteries will be charged.
Can I operate a hotel load with the Hybrid Power System?
Yes. Hotel loads can be operated off of the system batteries through an optional inverter.
What is the total weight of Hybrid Power System?
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DC power unit
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243 lbs
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NITE Plus (including vent)
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70 lbs.
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4 batteries
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300 lbs ***
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2 battery boxes
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88 lbs. ***
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Espar Heater
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8 lbs.
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Total Weight
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709 lbs.
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***Depending on manufacturer.
Is there a lot of required maintenance for the Hybrid Power System?
No. There is virtually no maintenance on the air conditioning unit, and small amounts of scheduled maintenance on the Kohler diesel power unit - filters and belt maintenance. The optional fuel fired heater should be started once a month and ran for at least one half hour and the screen in the fuel pump should be cleaned two to three times a year.
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