Things to Know about the Xantrex Generator Start Control System

Many coaches now come equipped with a Xantrex Automatic Generator Start Control System (AGS). This system, when set, will automatically control and monitor an auxiliary generator to start and charge a bank of batteries as heating and cooling systems require.

The AGS starts the generator automatically in response to a low battery or in response to an air conditioning or heating request. The AGS allows the setting of quiet time to prevent operation during inappropriate times. The AGS allows for easy changing of time zone setting to change local times when traveling. The system also displays the generator status indicating if the generator is on (GEN ON) or if the generator has a problem (GEN FAULT).

The AGS allows the user to have confidence that the battery will not be completely discharged and the DC systems will be operational. The system is not dependent on shore power and will maintain even if small appliances and general lighting are on. It also provides generator power to operate the heating or cooling systems allowing you and your pets to be comfortable.

However, the AGS is not intended to be left unattended or to keep the batteries fully charged. The charge period is normally two to four hours. It is also not intended to maintain area temperature at a specific temperature or is it for use with all air conditioners, heaters, heat pumps and generators.

The AGS system, when in AUTO or AUTO QUIET TIME mode, continuously monitors the house battery and two air conditioning/heater thermostats. If the LOCAL TIME of day is not within the AUTO QUIET TIME window, it will start the generator to charge the battery or to cool or heat as required. The AGS system is invisible to the normal operation of the auxiliary generator manual start and stop controls with the following exceptions: 1. If the generator is started by the AGS, which is in the AUTO or AUTO QUIET TIME mode, the selection of OFF at the AGS Remote Panel will stop the auxiliary generator. 2. If the AGS system commands the generator to start and it does, the AGS system will stop the generator at the appropriate time. if the generator stops for some other reason, even if it is turned Off by a manual switch other than the AGS, the AGS system will assume that there is a FAULT. It will turn itself OFF and turn on the GEN FAULT light. At this point, the AGS system must be turned on to the AUTO mode or AUTO WUIET TIME mode for it to resume control of the generator.

Once started by the AGS system, the generator will run for a minimum of two hours. This will ensure that there is good charge in the battery, although it may not be fully charged at the end of the cycle. If the battery voltage does not reach 13.5 volts during the two-hur period, the generator will continue to run for an additional tow hours. If at the end of the second two-hour period the battery voltage is still not up to 13.5 volts, then the AGS systems assumes that there is a problem and turns the generator OFF. It must be then restarted manually.

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