Hi all
I think our lead acid batteries have seen their best days (2x 110A Hankooks in parallel, about/at least 5 yrs old) and I am thinking of swapping out for lithium (either 2x100A or 1x 170A or thereabouts). I have already learnt from previous posts and also, done a bit of research. But, still a bit confused as many lithium producers/sellers seem to indicate their product is a direct replacement/drop-in for standard lead acid batteries. I am not convinced it's that simple (but happy to be told otherwise!) so after a little guidance.
I have previously installed (about 3yrs ago) a 115w solar panel (Victron Energy) with a dual 15A MPPT charge controller (PV Logic). There is also a CTEK MXS 25 charger fitted (when on EHU) by previous owner. This charges the leisure batteries, I have never checked if it also charges the engine battery.
I have been looking at the Eco-Worthy (cheap) lithium and the Renogy (possibly better BMS but not sure?) options, also considered the Fogstar. Happy to consider other options but this is not the main reason for my query.
My queries are:
1) I believe I shall need to upgrade the insitu charger to lithium capability. Is this correct or will this charger be suitable. If not, what sort of power output should I be looking at. Any suggestions for make/model.
2) I am limited to maximum 115w solar panel (not really any further space on roof) . Will this dictate maximum size of new battery/s best to install (I was thinking either 2x100A or 1x 170A, depending on physical sizing etc). If, for example, we installed 200Ah lithium (2x100 in parallel), would the solar panel stand a chance of fully charging it anyway (in summer!).
3) We often go for a couple of weeks at a time without EHU and so far, our current LA batteries/solar has coped well. Our van is only 6m and we are not high users of power.
4) I believe we shall need, either, a bluetooth option lithium battery OR a shunt battery monitor as the existing (voltage based) motorhome wall panel display will be of little use for the flatline lithium discharge/accuracy. Is this correct. If so, am I better off with bluetooth or shunt or is it just user preference.
5) The last thing, how can I tell if my current alternator (have not checked this out yet) will be sufficient for the new set-up or am I worrying for nothing here.
Sorry if I'm asking what has been asked before but I have read several threads and advice and there often appears to be some conflict between views on this, even more so, when you read manufacturers recommendations. I'm also hoping that any answers may help others who are considering the same thing.
Cheers and thanks in advance.
I think our lead acid batteries have seen their best days (2x 110A Hankooks in parallel, about/at least 5 yrs old) and I am thinking of swapping out for lithium (either 2x100A or 1x 170A or thereabouts). I have already learnt from previous posts and also, done a bit of research. But, still a bit confused as many lithium producers/sellers seem to indicate their product is a direct replacement/drop-in for standard lead acid batteries. I am not convinced it's that simple (but happy to be told otherwise!) so after a little guidance.
I have previously installed (about 3yrs ago) a 115w solar panel (Victron Energy) with a dual 15A MPPT charge controller (PV Logic). There is also a CTEK MXS 25 charger fitted (when on EHU) by previous owner. This charges the leisure batteries, I have never checked if it also charges the engine battery.
I have been looking at the Eco-Worthy (cheap) lithium and the Renogy (possibly better BMS but not sure?) options, also considered the Fogstar. Happy to consider other options but this is not the main reason for my query.
My queries are:
1) I believe I shall need to upgrade the insitu charger to lithium capability. Is this correct or will this charger be suitable. If not, what sort of power output should I be looking at. Any suggestions for make/model.
2) I am limited to maximum 115w solar panel (not really any further space on roof) . Will this dictate maximum size of new battery/s best to install (I was thinking either 2x100A or 1x 170A, depending on physical sizing etc). If, for example, we installed 200Ah lithium (2x100 in parallel), would the solar panel stand a chance of fully charging it anyway (in summer!).
3) We often go for a couple of weeks at a time without EHU and so far, our current LA batteries/solar has coped well. Our van is only 6m and we are not high users of power.
4) I believe we shall need, either, a bluetooth option lithium battery OR a shunt battery monitor as the existing (voltage based) motorhome wall panel display will be of little use for the flatline lithium discharge/accuracy. Is this correct. If so, am I better off with bluetooth or shunt or is it just user preference.
5) The last thing, how can I tell if my current alternator (have not checked this out yet) will be sufficient for the new set-up or am I worrying for nothing here.
Sorry if I'm asking what has been asked before but I have read several threads and advice and there often appears to be some conflict between views on this, even more so, when you read manufacturers recommendations. I'm also hoping that any answers may help others who are considering the same thing.
Cheers and thanks in advance.
