YUANRV

Category: power

  • Tech Spotlight: All About Lithium RV Batteries

    Over the past decade, battery technology has evolved rapidly. And with that evolution comes a vocabulary reminiscent of high-school chemistry class: Lithium, iron, phosphate—better known as (LiFePO4). Lithium is the primary component here, while the other elements make these new-gen batteries arguably safer on the road than tech that’s been around for awhile.

    “This has changed exponentially in the last 10 years,” says Tyler Bourns, chief marketing officer at Dragonfly Energy, which brought one of the first lithium RV batteries to market. “A decade ago, lithium wasn’t really on the radar for campers, but now we have power that can open up people’s worlds.”

    Lithium batteries have key advantages for RVers: They’re lighter than their lead acid counterparts, they hold a charge longer (the overall lifespan is also much longer) and they’re less likely to be damaged when drained completely. And while they’re not cheap, they can power more appliances and keep you off grid for longer stretches.

    Here, four popular lithium RV batteries—and what makes them ideal for creatures of the road.

    Convert to Lithium RV batteries

    Photo Credit: Battle Born

    Battle Born: 100-Amp-Hour 12-Volt LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery

    The flagship lithium battery from Dragonfly Energy, the Battle Born weighs just 31 pounds and comes with a 10-year warranty. One of the most trusted batteries in the RV space, these come standard on new Airstream models and other rigs. $749

    lithium RV batteries

    Photo Credit: Royer

    Royer Batteries: Micro 12-Volt 320-Amp-Hour Smart Heated LiFePO4 Battery

    Because lithium batteries typically cannot be charged at low temperatures, manufacturers like Royer offer built-in heating so campers can retain power when the mercury plunges. Plus, thanks to Bluetooth compatibility, users can monitor real-time usage on their phones. $1,820

    lithium RV batteries

    Photo Credit: Go Power!

    Go Power! Sun Cycle 100-Amp-Hour Lithium Iron Phosphate Solar Battery

    Designed for compatibility with Go Power!’s mobile solar systems, the Sun Cycle battery is only 24 pounds while also offering Bluetooth monitoring, internal heating and a built-in temperature monitoring system. $1,250

    lithium RV batteries

    Photo Credit: Renogy

    Renogy: 12-Volt 200-Amp-Hour Core Series Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery

    One of the most powerful lithium batteries, the Renogy’s Core Series is rated for 5,000 cycles (the number of times you can run it down to zero and recharge), and can easily be tied into other batteries to convert the 12-volt system to 24 or 48 volts. $1,379

    There are numerous other lithium RV batteries on the market, beyond those listed above. But these are some of the best, most reliable options available today.

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

    The post Tech Spotlight: All About Lithium RV Batteries appeared first on RV.com.

  • RV Battery Basics: Lead-Acid, AGM, and Lithium

    When it comes to powering your rig, choosing the right RV battery is crucial—they power your lights, refrigerator, water pump and other electrical components when you’re off the grid. There are three primary types of 12-volt batteries commonly used in RVs: lead-acid, AGM (absorbent glass mat) and lithium. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, making it important to understand which fits for your needs.

    RV battery maintenance

    Photo Credit: Getty

    Lead-Acid Batteries

    The oldest and most common type of RV battery uses lead plates submerged in a sulfuric acid solution to create an electrochemical reaction. These are usually the cheapest option upfront, making them attractive for budget-conscious owners, and they obviously have a long history of reliability and performance. They’re easy to find.

    Good to know: Lead-acid batteries are relatively large, heavy and typically last between three and five years, especially when subjected to deep discharges. Regular maintenance, such as checking fluid levels and cleaning terminals, is required to ensure the battery operates efficiently. Deep discharging (draining the battery to a level below 50 percent) can significantly reduce the lifespan of a lead-acid battery.

    Odyssey Battery

    Photo: Odyssey Battery

    AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Batteries

    This type of sealed lead-acid battery uses fiberglass mats to absorb and hold the electrolyte, preventing it from spilling. These products offer many of the benefits of traditional lead-acid batteries, but with some key improvements. AGM batteries are sealed and do not require the regular maintenance that traditional lead-acid batteries do. They can recharge more quickly compared to flooded lead-acid batteries—a huge benefit when you’re on the go. AGM batteries are more resistant to vibrations, making them ideal for RVs that travel over bumpy roads.

    AGM batteries are designed to handle deep discharges better than traditional lead-acid batteries, providing more usable power. Because the electrolyte is absorbed in the glass mat, there’s no risk of spillage or leaks, even if the battery is tipped over. AGM batteries generally come with a higher price tag than traditional lead-acid options. Although they’re lighter than flooded lead-acid batteries, An AGM RV battery can still be heavy and bulky compared to lithium power cells. AGM batteries typically last around five to seven years, which is shorter than lithium options.

    what is overlanding

    Photo Credit: Battle Born

    Lithium Batteries

    The newest and most advanced type of RV battery uses lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry, more efficient than the lead-based chemistry of other batteries. Lithium batteries can last 10 years or more with proper care, significantly longer than lead-acid and AGM options. Lithium batteries are much lighter than lead-acid and AGM batteries, and store more energy, making them easier to handle and more space efficient. They have a deeper depth of discharge (up to 80-90 percent), so more of total capacity can be used without damaging the battery. They require no maintenance. Lithium batteries charge more efficiently and quickly than traditional batteries.

    The biggest drawback of lithium batteries: high upfront cost, sometimes significantly more than lead-acid or AGM batteries. Lithium batteries require a specifically compatible charger, which can add to the initial investment (although many RV power converters or inverters have a lithium charging setting along with lead-acid). Lithium batteries can perform poorly in extreme temperatures, especially very cold conditions. However, some lithium batteries come with built-in temperature management systems to mitigate this issue.

    Conclusion

    This choice comes down to your priority: cost, longevity, performance or weight. Lead-acid batteries are a budget-friendly option, but provide less power, need more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan. AGM batteries offer a nice balance between performance and durability, with the added benefit of being maintenance-free. Lithium batteries stand out for longevity, efficiency and light weight, but cost more. Lead-acid is all you need if you usually camp connected to campground power. Lithium are best for long-term boondockers who camp off-grid using solar power or generators. AGM is probably best for folks who camp off-grid only occasionally.

    Got more questions about your RV battery or another topic you’d like to see covered by our vehicle expert Ken Freund? Drop us  note at knowhow@wildsam.com.

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

    The post RV Battery Basics: Lead-Acid, AGM, and Lithium appeared first on RV.com.