Community Forums

Isaac-1 · 05-15-2022, 11:32 AM

This is a simple poll, it is primarily for those with Lithium batteries, I want to know if you regret buying them? I ask because when the topic of Lithium batteries comes up there are always those that say they are not worth it, ... these people also tend to be people that don't own them.

**hamm2018** · 05-15-2022, 11:40 AM

We don't have Lithium batteries yet, but in September we are installing a whole rig solar system for almost $20K. We will have 6 120-amp hour batteries with our system, for a total of 720-amp hours. So interested in this thread and hope others will talk about the batteries brand they have installed.

n2zon · 05-15-2022, 05:35 PM

I chose the last option, along with 2/3 of other respondents. I'm still laughing about you adding that choice to the poll!

rtaggio · 05-15-2022, 05:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hamm2018

We don't have Lithium batteries yet, but in September we are installing a whole rig solar system for almost $20K. We will have 6 120-amp hour batteries with our system, for a total of 720-amp hours. So interested in this thread and hope others will talk about the batteries brand they have installed.

I have 630 amps lithium, 3000w inverter, 1200w solar on the roof, and I love how my system functions. Its almost like being at home !

**hamm2018** · 05-15-2022, 06:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rtaggio

I have 630 amps lithium, 3000w inverter, 1200w solar on the roof, and I love how my system functions. Its almost like being at home !

Solar Energy Systems in Nappanee, Ind. is doing our install. Batteries are their brand, Elevation with a 12 year warranty.

rtaggio · 05-15-2022, 08:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hamm2018

Solar Energy Systems in Nappanee, Ind. is doing our install. Batteries are their brand, Elevation with a 12 year warranty.

I went with 2 315amp lithionics batteries

paul65k · 05-15-2022, 09:06 PM

I have 1050 Ah of Lion Energy Batteries wired in series/parallel in a 24V system. We also installed 1600W of Solar panels and dual 24-12/15 DC-DC converter/Chargers and dual Victron 3000W inverter/chargers.

I couldn't be happier with the Lion batteries, we've had them installed for a little over 2 years and we've never had any issues.

We rewired everything in the coach to run (including both AC units) whether we are plugged in or not.

This system has completely transformed the way we camp and we couldn't be happier.

nvs4602 · 05-15-2022, 09:13 PM

I'm a DIYer fan myself 280ah battery for $650

**HarryStone** · 05-15-2022, 09:28 PM

I put in 3 200 amp Chinese Li batteries along with an inverter, which my rig didn't have. I really like it. We can run the microwave for supper and furnace and lights until morning with no issues.

TR4 · 05-15-2022, 10:01 PM

My 560 AH DIY.

Zulu Kono · 05-15-2022, 10:50 PM

None of the above.
Don't have one yet, but it's going to be my next big purchase.
Also need to figure out a way to secure it,
because I ain't leaving a $1,000 battery on my
trailer tongue without locking it on there somehow.
I'd like to lock it in an insulated steel box.

mmartin_tdc · 05-15-2022, 10:57 PM

I am starting simple, 1 100ah Lifepo4 battery moved to under the bed in my 5er. Added a DC to DC charger so I can charge up in a few hours of driving. Am planning a 2 week trip to daughters wedding in Arkansas and didn't want to worry about power while dry camping 4 days their and back. Will have full hooks ups once in Arkansas, but wanted no power shortages from an unknown aged lead acid rated at 84 ah, or 42 usable ah.

Isaac-1 · 05-16-2022, 07:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zulu Kono

None of the above.
Don't have one yet, but it's going to be my next big purchase.
Also need to figure out a way to secure it,
because I ain't leaving a $1,000 battery on my
trailer tongue without locking it on there somehow.
I'd like to lock it in an insulated steel box.

You might want to relocate the battery away from the tongue, LiFePo4 batteries prefer the same temperature ranges that humans do, and steel boxes can get VERY hot.

vsheetz · 05-16-2022, 04:41 PM

I've 600ah lithium battery bank. Three 200ah Lifeblue batteries. Installed over 2 years ago. We drycamp often.

Pricey, yes. Especially 2+ years ago. But well worth it to me. Substantial dry camping experience improvement.

###

The most talked about advantages of lithium batteries are capacity and longevity.

Less talked about, and not appreciated until having lithium batteries is the improved user experience when dry camping.

The bit higher voltage and very flat discharge curve keep the battery at 13+ volts most all the time. Plus they sag very little under heavy load. So the performance is consistent throughout the typical discharge cycle. Appliances and such in the coach just work better.

Lithium charge faster. Better usage of solar production, less generator run time, etc.

The BMS (battery management system) prevents damage to the battery. Overly discharging or charging, temperature excursions, etc. The BMS shuts down to protect the battery.