We often get questions about replacing existing lead acid batteries in an RV or small camper with lithium (also referred to as LifePO4) batteries. Most want the benefits of more power and less weight, but not wanting to change wiring or storage location. The second question then arises if the batteries are more expensive than a lead acid replacement. The good news, is lithium can be used to replace a lead acid battery and prices have dropped. To show how a 100Ah battery can be used, we tested a WattCycle 100Ah LifePO4 Battery to show how these batteries can be used as a low cost entry for lithium batteries.
Benefits of Using Lithium Batteries in an RV
I have been a fan of lithium batteries for some time. Lighter and more available power when compared to lead acid batteries. And most recently, lithium batteries have recently become equal to or in some cases, less in cost when compared to most lead acid batteries.
Lead acid batteries work well in RVs, but the draw back is the weight and only having 50% capacity available in most cases. Lithium batteries are much lighter and offer 90% battery capacity without damaging the battery.
The main issue when upgrading to lithium batteries is with older RVs where the converter charger does not support the lithium profile to charge the battery between 14.4V to 14.6V. This isn’t an expensive option to upgrade and most chargers can be replaced without to much difficulty or cost.
WattCycle 100Ah LifePO4 Battery
We chose the WattCycle battery for our test because of the low cost of entry using a lithium battery and its capacity of 100Ah and at a standard voltage of 12.8V. Additionally, we liked the fact WattCycle used A+ grade cells and rated to support 6,000 charging cycles.
Features:
- Measuring 10.24 x 6.61 x 8.23 inches and a weight of only 23.2lbs.
- Can operate in conditions as low as -4℉ and as high as 158℉.
- Can easily connect up to 4 batteries in series or 4 battery packs in parallel.
- The 100Ah LiFePO4 battery fits in a Group-24 battery box.
- Charge Temperatures of 32℉ to 122℉.
- Discharge Temperature of -4℉ to 158℉
Testing Results
We installed the battery in our Montana 5th wheel. Our test was to simulate a 5 to 6 hour tow and see if the battery would support using the slides, run our Max Air fans, and most importantly, power our inverter supplying 120V AC to our residential refrigerator.
Our testing was in August and temperatures ranged close to 100F outside and with similar temperatures inside our 5th wheel causing the our refrigerator to run constantly. This is typical for summer southeastern US travel and a good test to see if the battery can meet these power demands.
We also stressed the battery to see how it would hand long and extended surges.
The battery met its stated specifications and proved to be a reliable option to sustain our Montana for 6 hours of travel in extreme heat. Cooler temps would place less demand on our refrigerator and should last longer than 6 hours. And for those who have a 12V DC option for refrigeration, the battery should operate for longer periods without the extra amperage that is needed to convert 12V DC to 120V AC.
See the video below for more information about our test and the conditions.