Best Battery System for an RV - LiFePO4 vs Lead Acid
Рет қаралды 5,387
Күн бұрынRV batteries have made a MASSIVE transition over the last several years in regards to both quality as well as price. Join us on a deep dive into how/why lithium batteries have overtaken lead acid batteries as the battery of choice for RV campers as well as the components needed to build out a safe and effective battery system yourself!
LiFePO4 Battery Options:
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The new Renogy Pro Smart LiFePO4 is #1! Coming soon with great pre-order pricing!
renogy.sjv.io/KjQ1jz
Renogy Smart (not pro) 
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Best Deal on a LiFePO4 Low Temp Battery:
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Best Budget Heated Battery:
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Top Quality 200Ah Heated:
amzn.to/3VTtkv7
Gold Standard for years but overpriced now:
amzn.to/4eBzwiJ
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Victron Energy Blue Smart Wall Chargers:
(various sizes; how fast do you want to top off?)
5 amp:
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10 amp:
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15 amp:
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30 amp:
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#lifepo4 #lifepo4battery #agm #hikertrailer #squaredroptrailer #teardroptrailer #teardropcamper #tinycamper #bushwhacker #freesolo #braxtoncreek #overlanding #camping
@dianac7002 21 күн бұрын
Normally, my eyes glaze over when watching more technical videos, but I watched your explanation with great interest. You're a great teacher! I'm looking forward to your future videos. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge!
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Thank you for the kind words. I wasn't sure anyone was actually gonna watch this video, but I was hoping some of this information could help people out.
@stephendouglas4545 21 күн бұрын
I agree and I subscribed because I was so impressed. This presentation was very refreshing--technical but pragmatic, and just the right balance. Shows intelligence. Thank you.
@drewmcg8613 14 сағат бұрын
Amen!
@2019halo 3 күн бұрын
Made it till the end, your videos have improved my understanding of solar and batteries thank you so much hope your day is full of joy!
@DIYOutdoorLife 3 күн бұрын
Thanks, you too! Glad to hear theyre helpful!
@twloughlin 21 күн бұрын
My only regret about getting into lithium iron phosphate over three years ago was the high cost of entry. I cry a little every time I learn what the cost of yet another good quality LiFePO4 is. I guess that's why they call it the "bleeding edge." The Renogy 200Ah Smart Pro you have listed is only $50 more than my original Battleborn.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
I know, with 200ah, built-in Bluetooth shunt, self heating, And a grenade proof BMS .... review coming for sure!
@jjham4005 18 күн бұрын
Another great video, watched it to the end lol!! You have a great way to explain technical topics in an easy to understand manner. Can’t wait for the video of your 7 pin hack!! Just changed to lithium and trying to get things setup properly with battery monitoring etc. thanks again!!!
@DIYOutdoorLife 18 күн бұрын
I will try to get to that as soon as I can, I have a bunch of videos out ahead of it, but I think it's an important topic. Thank you for watching the channel!
@jtoepke9763 19 күн бұрын
And this video is another reason why I stay subscribed and continue to watch your videos. I am NOT a non believer in lithium, I just haven’t reached lithium level Yet. My $200 AGM investment is on its second season, if I get three years per battery, in a dozen seasons ($800) then my $150 175w solar panel is a good combination for my campground camping. I think I have time to move to lithium. Thanks again Brian.
@DIYOutdoorLife 19 күн бұрын
Thank you, I really appreciate that you watch the videos. You are 100% right, don't let all of these lithium zealots put you down! LoL like I said in the video, if you know how to use it, there's an incredible amount of value in AGM. I would say the next time your batteries go bad, you'll be pleasantly surprised with the new lithium gear, but no need to change while they're working! Thank you for tuning in!
@rickernst1077 16 күн бұрын
Very easy listen...valuable information that's easy to digest! Thanks!
@DIYOutdoorLife 16 күн бұрын
Thank you, I really appreciate you watching the video!
@lynw758 19 күн бұрын
I made it all the way through and even went back a couple of times to re-listen. Thanks again for a fantastic video packed with excellent information! I especially love the info about Lithium being lighter, lasting longer, info on the heated batteries - since I am in northern US, and the Victron wall charger info. *Forgot to also thank you for the info about the alternator!! You are the best at explaining things...You have a true gift!
@DIYOutdoorLife 18 күн бұрын
Thank you so much! I really appreciate the kind words and knowing that people watch the videos and get something from them. Cheers
@BradLMN Күн бұрын
Made it to the end....Well done!
@DIYOutdoorLife Күн бұрын
Thank you for watching!
@jmac13131 20 күн бұрын
I was able to pick up a 140 Ah timeusb lifepo4 a couple of months ago for $220 for my hiker. No problem keeping it topped off with minimal solar. Basically running a 12v fridge, max air fan, and a couple of lights at night.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
That's awesome! Hiker does a great job too, because they disconnect the alternator charger for you… That's the right way to do it.
@stauffer65 12 күн бұрын
Excellent vid as always!! I'm still using my 2 vmax 225ah batteries in series with the victron shunt. Absolutely love the set up. Plenty of pwr with the solar. My new rig has a lithium controller. Only thing is the weight for me. Especially with a recent rotator cuff surgery. I think this fall I'm gonna save for the lithium. I can use the same shunt just need a charger. Love to talk sometime about it. Keep them coming brother!!
@DIYOutdoorLife 12 күн бұрын
That's a great battery set up, I've installed that dozens of times, never a complaint! Reach out anytime you want, happy to help if I can.
@tangotree1 15 күн бұрын
You are an excellent teacher! Thank you!!
@DIYOutdoorLife 14 күн бұрын
Thank you, I really appreciate you watching and commenting
@JohnKlopp 20 күн бұрын
Great info and the tip with the victron charger at the end answers a question I had before upgrading from sla to liFePO4 batteries for my camper.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
That's great to hear, I'm glad that was helpful. It saves a bunch of money and works great.
@GeoJeepster 21 күн бұрын
Glad you’re back! Excellent video as usual! Love the way you always cut through the bull and give practical advice!
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
I appreciate that you watch the channel 👍 👍
@martran56 21 күн бұрын
Great lesson here Brian. I’m waiting any day now for my first LifePo battery, but was a bit nervous if I had to invest in a DC to DC charge controller as well. Now I’ll opt for your tips on bypassing the 7-pin and charging the battery with the on board converter. Thanks again.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
Great to hear, thank you for watching!
@mauricegagnon4654 19 күн бұрын
Great video and content, thanks for sharing Brian! Cheers
@DIYOutdoorLife 19 күн бұрын
Thank you, I appreciate you watching!
@bayoubees9447 9 күн бұрын
Great video and information! My solar controller will charge both lead acid or lipo4 batteries and I'm tempted to buy a 30 lb 100 ah battery to replace the 2 interstate deep cycle batteries that weigh a lot more. My question is - why not kill the DC power to the camper battery charger and just plug in the Victron charger full time? The fuse panel and breaker part of the converter will still function with out DC power. Then disconnect the power coming from the truck, my 300 watt solar will keep the camper charged.
@DIYOutdoorLife 9 күн бұрын
That's a perfectly fine way to do it, I've done that many times. Since the converter/charger in your camper doesn't hurt anything, it's also fine to leave it connected like I did in this video. It might be 30 A, then can charge 80% of your battery pretty fast. You can save money by getting a smaller Victron to top it off in that case. On my personal set up, I just bought a 30a Victron and disconnected like you're saying. Truth be told, my solar keeps me topped off 99% of the time, shore power is very rarely used.
@jonluchessi1643 18 күн бұрын
I think you’re absolutely brilliant when it comes to electronics, I am so lost with solar with generators with batteries I’m literally going out of my mind with it, I wish you were here in California I would hire you to set up my little teardrop trailer it would be awesome, I’m just trying to figure out what darn generator to get just to run my AC unit (The AC is for my dog on hot days after a long hike) in my Bushwacker HD 10, mechanically I’ve got it all modified lift kit big tires off-road hitch I have braced the frame Etc. etc. but when it comes to this electronic stuff it’s an unconsolidated nightmare for me, I did purchase a generator brand new over $1000 it was called a Generac & the day I went to use it, it was defective, I ended up getting my money back and trying to figure out what the heck to purchase, Here in California you can’t get many generators so I have to go to Nevada and buy one unless I go to a place like Harbor freight and I’m looking for light weight to reduce tongue weight etc. I wish I had your knowledge sorry for this long ongoing message but I do think you’re absolutely brilliant and now seeing that you’ve purchased a new trailer I’m probably gonna end up getting something like yours!!!!👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
@DIYOutdoorLife 17 күн бұрын
Thank you so much for the kind words, we're all in this together! I still struggle with a lot of the mechanical and metal work, I was just trying to weld yesterday and it looks like a child did it. we all have things to share to help each other out, if we meet up on the road I'm sure we could both upgrade each other's campers. California is tough when it comes to generators. I do really like the predator from Harbor freight, for that price point, it's very difficult to beat. If you can get something in the 1400 to 2000 W range, it should be able to charge your camper and run the air conditioner. They make both sizes, both will work fine. The 2000 will give you a little bit more headroom and be less problematic, but you can get the 1400 to work flawlessly. if running the 1400, make sure you're not running anything else when you turn your air conditioner on, sometimes it's helpful to start with the fan and switch to low cool after one minute. This helps that 1400 not overload. The 2000 won't have this problem and will run a little bit longer on a tank. Happy to help anyway I can, feel free to reach out anytime .
@ckelley6940 7 күн бұрын
Thank you, I’m in the learning phase of solar and batteries. Started with a small Bluetti unit and 100 watt brief case panel.
@DIYOutdoorLife 7 күн бұрын
Thats a great unit to start on. You can definitely learn a lot by starting on portable power stations,the com screen tells you a lot of useful things.
@stuartstuart866 16 күн бұрын
I switched from AGM battery to a 100ah LiFePO4 in our trailer once the price came down to about $300. I chose one with bluetooth, self heating, high and low temperature protection. Having an app to keep tabs on my charge rate means a simplified and less expensive installation since it eliminates the need for extra wires, fuses and a monitoring gauge. Gathering ACCURATE information was the most challenging aspect of the upgrade. The higher 14.4 voltage when charging a lithium battery can damage older Maxxfans so I installed a voltage DC to DC stabilizer. My vehicle cuts off the 12 volt power supply when the ignition is off, so backfeeding from the lithium to tow vehicle isn’t an issue while parked. I replaced my converter to a Victron charger set at 15 amps. From what I understand, my 130 amp alternator isn’t at risk because I only have a single 100ah being fed with a 10 gauge wire so the draw is minimal (I also have 160 watts of solar on my trailer roof) . One of the most satisfying benefits of the upgrade is running my 3 way fridge off of 12 volts while driving, and even though it uses 15 amps, I can drive many hours before worrying about a low battery. Anyway, it was a bit of a frustrating experience upgrading to LiFeP04, but I’m sure enjoying the benefits.
@DIYOutdoorLife 16 күн бұрын
Like you said, it can be a frustrating switch, but it's worth it in the end! Do a little bit more digging on that alternator charging, you will find that you do want a DC to DC or eliminate it all together. Even if you have some headroom for the charge, it's not very good for it due to the transient issue we were talking about in this video.
@treepop1550 17 күн бұрын
Great presentation!!!
@DIYOutdoorLife 16 күн бұрын
Thank you, I appreciate the comment!
@neverwin2518 21 күн бұрын
Can definitely tell you put the extra effort in on this vid!
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Definitely a more involved video for us, I hope I can help some people out
@J4Julz 20 күн бұрын
This has to be the best explanation about the differences between the two types of batteries. Thank you so much for the rants and explanations that ai can wrap my head around. Bravo!
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
I really appreciate that you watched the videos and chose to join as a member! It's allowed me to continue making these videos 😃
@TJPowell 18 күн бұрын
Very informative, thank you for doing this video
@DIYOutdoorLife 18 күн бұрын
Thank you for watching, I appreciate it!
@ronbearden3370 21 күн бұрын
Great video and changed my views on LIPO. Thanks
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
I appreciate you watching 👍
@photogr4u 21 күн бұрын
Thanks for a great video with lots of info about the LiPo batteries, this answers a lot of my questions.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
That's great to hear, I wasn't sure anyone was actually going to watch it... lol
@craigbeattie5209 20 күн бұрын
Thx Brian! You helped me so much by explaining all this to me with my build and I’m so happy with the results! You have a fantastic ability to explain things in a way that even a knuckle dragger like myself can understand!
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
Haha.. how's your new system working out? Have you been able to do a shakedown and test it out?
@craigbeattie5209 20 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife oh ya, it’s working great!
@JohnMichael-gk4rh 21 күн бұрын
Great video. Please show us how to disable the car charging cable. I don't need it and am just heading out for a long trip in 1 to 2 months. Thanks and show us your new trailer.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
I definitely have to make that video, I hope I can get to it sometime soon. If you wanna try it yourself, it really couldn't be easier . Look up the diagram for your trailer side 7 pin, it will show you which wire is the 12 VDC +. It will also explain what all the other wires are. Follow that wire from the plug back to your trailer, and it's going to go to a small plastic box with a screwed on lid. Just remove that one wire, put everything back where it was, put a little tape around it the exposed end of the wire you removed and you're done. Hope to be able to make that video, but I know we're a little backed up on the channel right now so I don't know when it'll be. Thank you!
@jessecox5317 20 күн бұрын
Brian this was an awesome video. I would love to pick your Brain sometime.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
Thanks for tuning in. You can reach out anytime.
@michaelshuman3319 21 күн бұрын
Very interesting . Thanks
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Thank you, I really appreciate you watching!
@connietanner3863 21 күн бұрын
Good video Brian. Love the way you make it easier to understand. Thank you for sharing.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Thank you, we're going to get to hang in a month right? Are you in for NC?
@geoffreno3584 21 күн бұрын
GREAT video Brian!!! Love this type of content from you. I’m a bit of a nerd about this stuff so maybe it’s not for everyone, but is nerds love it! So glad you’re in a new camper and “building it out” with your mods and upgrades. Gives you a chance to go through the basics again and reevaluate how the new technologies may have changed things from your older vids. I’m SUPER curious about that goal zero Yeti you have installed plays into your battery / power system. Hopefully we’ll see something on that soon?? Congrats on the new tiny camper BTW… She’s a beauty!
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
I can't wait to discuss that, it's next level! Essentially, I have a switch that can divert the solar from my battery to the Goal zero, depending what I want to charge. I have a switch that will power the camper DC off of the front battery or the high output of the GZ . I have an auto transfer switch that automatically runs the outlets in the camper off of the Goal zero when disconnected from shore power, and I use the app to turn the inverter on and off . It's set up to charge and use in countless ways, do things automatically, add to the battery capacity, and take the place of an inverter ... love it!
@tomfowler3653 21 күн бұрын
Great video Brian. Very informative! Thanks for making it easy to understand.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
Thanks Tom, appreciate you watching!
@benvargas5060 21 күн бұрын
I watched the video you referenced and that was not my take-away at all. I've watched that video several times. I am now ready to upgrade the converter and battery and I set out to read up on this project and you happened to pop up again with new info. Thank You! If you set out to actually do a full conversion to Lith THE RIGHT WAY, I would be very interested in hearing your take on it all. I know it would be a bit expensive but I love my Geo Pro and as a hobby would love to pimp it out.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
I really appreciate hearing that. I found that most people got exactly what I was trying to say, but there's always that lingering group of people that tend to be noisy.... lol I literally got hate mail over that video, pretty comical. Thank you for tuning in, lots of new content coming on batteries and charging , stay tuned!
@adventuresofthememorymakers 21 күн бұрын
Very good and informative video, had to listen to the end. So glad you addressed the car alternator charging issues with the lithium batteries. You just described how we setup campers for owners when they want to step up to lithium power. Keep it as simple as possible and it will serve you well for a long time.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
We should team up for the how to remove the alternator connection video. We'll let Lucía and Cindy film while we bang our heads on the frame showing color blind folks had to find it with a multimeter!
@adventuresofthememorymakers 21 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife sounds fun!
@zaxon09 19 күн бұрын
great content, thank you!
@DIYOutdoorLife 19 күн бұрын
Appreciate it 👍
@juliarushing1920 20 күн бұрын
nice explanation. thanks
@DIYOutdoorLife 19 күн бұрын
Glad you liked it, thanks for watching!
@knockerw51 21 күн бұрын
Great video, very informative
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Thank you, I really appreciate you watching the video!
@terrytiemeyer9062 21 күн бұрын
As always great information. Thanks.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Thank you, I appreciate that!
@konkaragounakis5924 20 күн бұрын
Thanks Brian for explaining this, made it to the end 😅
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
That's great to hear, there must be other battery nerds out there in this world! LoL
@Dime5150 20 күн бұрын
Made it to the end😂😂 thanks man, great info!
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
I appreciate you tuning in, especially to the end 😂
@nate.leal. 21 күн бұрын
I must be a boring person, because I made it to the end. Fascinating. I am super close to pulling the trigger.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
We're in good company! Thank you for taking the time to watch.
@Utah_Mike 21 күн бұрын
I made the switch when prices were nearly double what that are now. I would do it at even double the price! No regrets for me.
@kennethboatner8611 21 күн бұрын
I made it to end . Your thoughts on the advanced AGM batteries that have the TPPL which stands for thin plate pure lead and can cycle down lower . That’s what I have in the Hiker . Running lights, fan and fridge it can go three days before it hits the 12V mark and I feel the need to charge it. It can safely be charged through the 7 pin as long as voltages stay below 15V , no DC to DC needed . The only bad thing about a battery of this type is it’s weight , it’s about 80-85 lbs . A simple suitcase style solar (220 W) can top it off when staying out longer . I don’t know why I’m not sold on Lithium maybe it’s because I’m older and I’ve always worked with flooded and AGM batteries.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
I am with you, it seems like we think of this the same way. I have used AGM for years, including the modern ones with deeper discharge capability. They are excellent, no DCDC needed, cheaper... but we're still not going to get the other benefits until we go lithium. The battery you have is great, don't change it until you need to . But when you see what you get for the size and weight, you'll become a believer. Thank you so much for watching the video to the end !
@bobloken541 21 күн бұрын
Thanks!
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
Thank you so much for your generous contribution to the channel, it helps keep the lights on!
@gregspeakman9337 20 күн бұрын
Great vid Brian.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
Thank you, I appreciate you watching!
@drewroberts9726 20 күн бұрын
great job
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
Thank you 😃 👍
@emsfire261 20 күн бұрын
Great explanations as usual, Brian. I hope you’re doing well!
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
Thank you, it's been very exciting to spend so much time in the new camper! We did just spend two nights in the Bushwhacker as well… Just so it didn't get jealous
@emsfire261 18 күн бұрын
Keeping the Bushwhacker from getting jealous gives a whole new meaning to the phrase “a happy camper”… We recently returned from another >4,200-mile motorhome trip, so it’s time to put the ol’ BW to some more use again. Congratulations on your new Hiker! That’s a nice rig, and should be fun to outfit to your preferences.
@dogishappy0 21 күн бұрын
Lol, I immediately thought of that video from 3 years ago when I saw this video title. I don't remember it being worthy of being branded, "anti-Lithium" at all. I remember it being a friendly reminder that new technologies come with new things to keep in mind.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
I knew I liked you! ... lol thanks for watching
@jurassicjon 21 күн бұрын
I wish the cost of Sodium batteries would drop in cost.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Agreed, they are going to be heavy, but a very interesting development.
@1markymark1 21 күн бұрын
Great video, even great info in the rants, 😂
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Thank you, I try to keep the rants to a minimum... lol
@GoldenK9Campers 21 күн бұрын
Great stuff. Yeah.. I already installed a battery disconnect switch on my connection to my lead acid battery, so I can just turn that off when towing, but there is a seperate line that goes to the brakes so I should be good there. Thanks so much.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Nice, I appreciate you swinging by and watching the video!
@jerryscheneman2581 21 күн бұрын
This video ever made thank you
@jerryscheneman2581 21 күн бұрын
I meant to say best video you’ve ever made keep up the good work
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Thank you, I appreciate that!
@larryfregin2859 20 күн бұрын
Your excellent. Im learning but your teaching a little faster than im learning.....lol. i will keep going and by the time I have my 320 boondock purchase I will know whats going on......thanks your a big help.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
Anytime, we're all in this together! If you ever have a question, don't be afraid to ask.
@hegefarms4260 18 күн бұрын
Interesting video
@DIYOutdoorLife 18 күн бұрын
Thank you for tuning in and commenting!
@jasonmcgill3904 21 күн бұрын
Couple questions. Can you expect the same kind of longevity from a power station (goal zero)? Do those power stations have the same cold charging issues?
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
The brand new goal zeros use LifePO4, same chemistry that we're talking about in this video. The majority of their models use a different lithium- ion sub chemistry, LI-nmc. I did a lot of reviews on Goal zero power stations where I discussed this in depth, it might be worth taking a peek at one of those videos. Li-nmc does not have the same endurance as lifepo, but I think it pairs very well with those power stations and wouldn't worry about it at all. Although a lifepo4 cell can last almost 10 times as long as NMC, There is no reason why you won't get 10 years plus out of a goal zero yeti X. Chances are you don't completely drain it every single day, they are a great well built power station. As for the other question, Goal Zero has the best temperature protection that I've seen in any power station. If it gets down too cold, you'll see thermostat on the screen and it will not allow you to charge.
@DavidArroyo78 14 күн бұрын
Ok, so you convinced me now to switch to LIFePO! You explain things so clearly. Great job again! But to be clear on something, the WFCO 8735P will not damage the LiFePO? Its will only bring the charge up to 80% and then the Victron will carry it up to 100% and balance the cells? Is buying the WFCO 8735AD a waste money with its Auto detect feature? Thanks again.
@DIYOutdoorLife 14 күн бұрын
I honestly think it is a waste of money. Just use the Victron at home. It will 100% not damage anything, it just won't top off the charge. When youhave shore, you usually don't need a full charge anyway. Let me know how you make out, I think you're gonna be thrilled
@DavidArroyo78 14 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife thanks for the quick reply. I’ll let you know for sure. 👍🏼
@cherylbarrett3443 20 күн бұрын
So, I have been doing what you suggested for a while. I bring my lithium battery in and charge it on the charger that is intended for it before each trip. I simply turn off the kill switch on the battery while I am towing the camper so that it is not charging from the alternator. The potential problem is the Dometic fridge, because it is not running either if I turn off the battery. I have been putting cooler shock packs in the fridge on my way to camp, but that isn't going to work on longer trips. I think I must add solar to keep the fridge running. The problem I have is that I really have no room on my roof for solar. I would have to put a flexible panel on the curved front of my camper, but I wonder if it would really get enough sun at that angle.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
I think in your case, just pulling that wire that connects your tow vehicle will be fast and simple. I hope you'll be able to put out a video that demonstrates this. This allows you to keep the battery on, running your fridge, and disconnect the tow vehicle. What kind of camper do you have? Where is your refrigerator located? Maybe we can try to figure out some creative solutions that are easy
@cherylbarrett3443 20 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife I have a Intech Flyer Pursue. The fridge is in a pullout in the front of the camper.
@cherylbarrett3443 20 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife If the fridges handles didn't have to be removed to make it fit in its spot in the pullout, I would probably just move it to the back of the car and plug it in there. As it is, it isn't so easy to move, especially when you are a fun-sized person.
@DIYOutdoorLife 19 күн бұрын
@@cherylbarrett3443 it should be very easy to disconnect that wire on ur camper, that would allow you to keep the battery on while you're driving and not have to worry about the hassle
@stacyjourdain4435 20 күн бұрын
Thx
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
TY👍
@markall8641 21 күн бұрын
great video for my novice battery knowledge. Looking forward to your upgrading your Hiker battery system and more insight to it. why you are doing what your doing and suggestions would be awesome as I am a AGM Hiker owner currently and might upgrade after your videos.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
AGM is great, people give it a bad rap, but it does the job. When that AGM gets tired, you'll be thrilled with the upgrade to lithium. Definitely some somehow to videos coming on the Hiker !
@sirjaymill 21 күн бұрын
Made it to end, supposedly my converter/change is made for lipo
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
I've seen good results and bad results, personally I'm not thrilled. it gives you the option to skip the Victron, although I think I would still use it if I had one of the auto detect WFCOs
@lifepolicy 21 күн бұрын
Prices for Lifepo4 have come down a lot since your other video. With that in mind, it's now a no-brainer to choose Lifepo4 while it was not a few years ago. But Lifepo4 has one big disadvantage I never thought of and nobody is talking about: most if not all cells are produced at sea level or slightly higher. When you travel in the mountains air pressure will drop and the cells will bulge which can damage the cells. Now for the use in my campervan, I chose to not use a battery with low temperature cut off. I fixed that problem with main switches that allow me to cut off loading, discharging, or both.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
I have seen that before as well, but most of these good batteries have fixed that. Although the pressure goes up, they don't bulge when they are packed properly. This is a great point that most people don't think of though. Thank you for contributing to the conversation, which battery did you end up going with?
@lifepolicy 20 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife I went with a Redodo 100ah. Currently, I can get one of those for the price of two lead-acid batteries. The 100ah lasts me a whole weekend with my fridge and my diesel heater running. All the other hardware is from Victron. I don't have DC to AC because, after a few trips, I realized that all I needed the AC for was charging my toothbrush. On longer trips, I usually have an AC connection to recharge the battery anyway.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
@@lifepolicynice, I have an Oral-B toothbrush, although it does give you quite a bit of use before it dies, I have a small portable power station that I plug it into. I like roughing it and all, but I gotta have that electric toothbrush.😂
@gandalfthemead3121 20 күн бұрын
Thanks for the video. Just got back from our second trip in our new Hiker. 3.5 days camping. I parked in the shade and tried to survive off my 1000x Goalzero. I had to hook up the car and play cat and mouse with the fridge (C44). I finally lost power at 4 am on the day we were going to leave. I had been looking at portable solar, but didn't pull the trigger on a purchase. My Hiker has a kill switch that you can also flip over to where I have cables that can be put on a battery. Since my Goalzero was put in lengthwise I Cant fit a battery down there. I had the shelf raised and I'm not sure if I can fit one on the shelf and if it fits, I'll have to add a 1 X 2 board for weight load. I'm trying to figure out which brand of battery, how to charge it, how to store it and what gizmos I need to charge it with solar panels or just use it up, bring it home and then try and charge it. Worried about bricking the battery. I just cant throw down $900 for battleborne. I did buy their stock, if it goes up enough and I wait the 6 months for capital gains, maybe.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
Do you have the 1000 X or the 1000 core? My recommendation would be to get yourself a good chunk of solar . Between 200 and 400 W portable. One ideal situation might be two of the 220 W units that I just reviewed. You could either string them in series or connect them in parallel for 440w. If you set up that amount of solar at camp, it would likely keep that yeti charged up the whole time . It would run down a little bit at night and charge right back up in the morning. 90% of the time it'll probably be charged up before lunchtime, but the extra headroom will get you through shady campsites, and rainy days. My suspicion is that if you did that, you wouldn't even have to worry about the battery . No moving anything or changing the wiring or getting a charger. It would probably cost less as well. Keep me in the loop, I'm happy to help if I can .
@larryglass4541 21 күн бұрын
Brian, love your channel! You've helped me understand a lot about battery power even though I've been RVing for about 15 years. I do have one question...I have a 2017 T@B with a non lithium recognizing WFCO charge converter. I also have 300w of solar with an MPPT charge controller hooked directly to the battery. If I understand you correctly I can use the WFCO when I have shore power and it will charge to around 80%. If I also use the solar package it can charge the rest of the way and do all the balancing stuff the WFCO doesn't? Then if I disconnect the charge wire on the 7 pin I've got a reliable lifepo4 system without changing the WFCO converter/charger?
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
That is absolutely correct! Although the solar can be more temperamental than getting the Victron wall charger, it accomplishes the job if you have a good one. Make sure to use the best lithium setting on your MPPT, sometimes it requires custom settings, dialed in exactly to your battery specs. Happy camping!
@larryglass4541 21 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife Brian, thanks! I'll get a wall charger to use also and use your link.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
@@larryglass4541 thank you, keep me in the loop with how you make out!
@user-uj5pk1dg5j 21 күн бұрын
I would caution against removing the charging wire from the 7 pin connector. That wire is not always used to just charge the battery. Yes I agree that that was the intention of the original design but travel trailer manufacturers used that wire to power things like the brake away switch ( I know this is wrong and the brake away switch should be wired directly to the battery) but it is also wired to the battery disconnect switch. A better option would be an isolated DC to DC charge controller to protect the alternator.
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
I'm hoping to get around to showing people how to do this. If they are using that post for the breakaway, there's another lead on a auto reset breaker that will just have the battery/12v wire on it. if that is missing, you can connect the wire from the battery to the breakaway and remove the seven pin inside, it's really easy to do, but you are absolutely correct that it needs to be paid attention to. Like I said in the video, DC DC is always the best option, but I see them on about 10% of the trailers on the road with LFP and that may be generous. Some folks arent interested and isolating them completely is a good option Thank you for contributing to the conversation, great point .
@Breyes61 14 күн бұрын
Hi we are looking at buying a hiker trailer and we're wondering if you would be interested in doing the electrical system on it. We live in CT, nit sure where you are located. My husband and I enjoy your informative videos and appreciate that you share your knowledge with us. Best regards Brianne
@DIYOutdoorLife 14 күн бұрын
Im in upstate NY, we live close enough to make that happen. Shoot me an email at - diyoutdoorcontent@gmail.com Let me know what you're looking to get, when you're going to get it, we can discuss some options, I'll try to help anyway I can ! Thanks 🙏🏻
@Breyes61 14 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife Thank you for responding to my message. I just sent you an email. Many blessings, Brianne
@richardsali1954 21 күн бұрын
Good explanation
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Thank you, I really appreciate you tuning in!
@MarcoCalderon-nl8qn 20 күн бұрын
I just got a 2021 Bushwhacker Plus Fd. Can you add roof rails to this model to eventually add an awning?
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
I do not believe it can support a roof rack. I have seen people attach awnings with through bolts into the side though. It's a nice camper, but it's difficult to work on that roof because it's so thin
@FuzzyDogProductions385 21 күн бұрын
I need to upgrade my battery system
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
We all do, lol, it's never enough!
@kevinturley6673 11 күн бұрын
Just finished watching your video, great information. I do have a question about trailer converters, I have lifepo batteries and want to change the converter to a wfco-ad converter, just wondering your thoughts on this. Thanks
@DIYOutdoorLife 10 күн бұрын
If you can do it yourself, you can get it done on a budget and it's great. to be honest, I think I get better results just using the Victron add-on charger when needed. I let the stock wfco do most of the work, before a Boondocking trip, I put the Victron on for a few hours before I leave. I have an auto detect, new in the box, and I did not even put it in my older trailer... I just use the Victron when I need it. Hope this helps, thanks for watching!
@kevinturley6673 9 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife thanks for the info, love your channel.
@kevinturley6673 9 күн бұрын
Do you disconnect the batteries from the trailer charger when you use the victron battery charger?
@DIYOutdoorLife 9 күн бұрын
@@kevinturley6673 nope, it's a smart device. You don't have to disconnect the battery, you can use it and charge at the same time, you can even charge it at the same time as the other WFCO is charging... couldn't be any easier!
@kevinturley6673 9 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife thanks for the info, made the decision pretty easy
@Utah_Mike 21 күн бұрын
The biggest reason I went to lithium is I removed 120 pounds (two 6 volt) off my tongue of the trailer, and move the lithium battery under a dinning bench.
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
The weight difference can be really nice, so is moving it indoors!
@Oblivionsurveyor 20 күн бұрын
You will probably find it funny how i setup my Lifepo4 in my camper. I have 800ah i built myself with a 30amp outlet i wired to the battery box. I actually Cut my exterior 30amp wires and wired a 30amp female outbox for inside the camper to it instead. So the external outlet is just for show now, I will never have a need to use. I used a short 3 ft 30amp cable to connect the inverter to the camper. Before i did that i had a 20ft long power cable running to the external outlet from my battery's, not practical at all. You want a nice lifehack for making these setups? Buy a Hart Toolbox made for storing floor jacks and tools. They are dirt cheap or at least they used to be, my last two battery's sit in two of those toolboxes with a total of 4 200ah battery's. Was almost like the toolbox was made for my battery's heh
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
That's awesome, whatever gets the job done! Good tip on the battery box, when I was doing a lot of DIY batteries builds, we used all sorts of things… Whatever fits!
@bobloken541 21 күн бұрын
The alternator in my truck is about 22 feet from the 12 V 300 amp lithium ion battery I have in my Lance trailer. Doesn’t that distance eliminate any problems I might have with my trucks alternator burning out?😊
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
Yes, all of these things can help lessen the impact. Even having a truck instead of a smaller SUV puts you ahead of the game. I still think of it like smoking light cigarettes instead of reds... lol The biggest problem will likely occur when you are traveling slowly, idling, or in stop and go traffic . Your depleted 300 amp lithium is going to want to draw every bit of current it physically can. Your alternator is going to be spinning at a lower revolution and getting much less passive cooling from driving down the road... this is where you're going to see the damage buildup. The longer wire distance also does nothing for the transience issue that can damage diodes and other sensitive opponents. Every time your BMS pauses the charge, your alternators going to hate it. You might be able to get by on a lifetime of doing it just as you are, but with that battery size do you need the extra charge? Could you get by with an extra solar panel? A DCDC is easy and not that expensive anymore. Something to think about, but the sky is not falling here, you might get by just fine . Thank you for watching and asking great questions!
@bobloken541 20 күн бұрын
And thank you for your thoughtful response!
@twoweary 19 күн бұрын
I have a question Brian. Will an oversized inverter ( say 2000 watts hooked up to a 100 Ah AGM battery) damage either the inverter or the battery ? I will have the appropriate protection to not deplete the battery below 50%. I’d like to oversize it now as I plan on expanding my battery capacity down the road. I’m thinking I will disconnect the inverter after I make coffee or run a small heater (500 watts) for 30 minutes in the morning to avoid running down the battery with the inverter on but not under load. Thanks in advance for the advice.
@DIYOutdoorLife 19 күн бұрын
If your wires and fuses are correct, you can do that no problem. An AGM battery output a very high current, it can handle that inverter. The issue, as you know, is that the runtime is limited. You only have about 600 W hours before you're at 50%. Running that heater for 30 minutes might be 300wh after the efficiency losses are calculated in. In short, you can definitely run that inverter, just be careful not to run down your battery too much .
@jjham4005 6 күн бұрын
Hey Brian can you recommend a good reliable forum for diagnosing small camper electrical issues? After my upgrade to 200 AH and auto detect power centre (which I got 3 days off grid camping on just over 55% of the batteries 👍🏻), I’m having problems with super slow charging when on shore power and 7 pin
@DIYOutdoorLife 6 күн бұрын
Unfortunately, I don't really have a good recommendation. in my experience, there's nine knuckleheads for every one experienced person answering questions. Every time I recommend a Facebook group or reddit forum, people get more nonsense than help. ... sorry 😞 Can you be more specific about the problem you're having? Even though it's difficult over text, I can do my best. Did it happen suddenly, or it happened right after changing your battery? Do you have a DCDC controller on your tow vehicle connection? If not, I discussed that in this video. That's always going to be slow and sometimes you can cause some damage. A DCDC is what's needed when running 200ah lithium and connecting 7-pin. How slow of a charge is the WFCO? With the battery of that size, it might take ~10 hours to charge fully. Is it slower than that? You can also email me at DIYoutdoorcontent@gmail.com Thanks!
@jjham4005 6 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife ok I’ll shoot you an email that way I can be a little more specific. Thanks Brian greatly appreciated!!
@nate.leal. 19 күн бұрын
Why did you touch that wood post?
@DIYOutdoorLife 19 күн бұрын
You would have to give me the timestamp, there was a couple times in the video where insects were crawling by… Lol
@nate.leal. 19 күн бұрын
I didn’t even notice the others. 24:40 I see now you were probably referencing stuff you intended to put on the screen later.
@yoelglanz9696 20 күн бұрын
I'm thinking of upgrading my battery bank. How do I get my AC, microwave or all the other 110v outlets to work off of 12V battery?
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
An inverter is the device that makes that happen. What you may be shocked to find is the price point that air conditioning takes place at. You can spend less than $1000 on batteries/inverter and get your outlets to work and be able to run your microwave for a short period of time. You're gonna be spending at least five times that to get the air conditioning to run if it's a rooftop unit.
@yoelglanz9696 20 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife I have 2 ac rooftop units. I'm not understanding what you're saying regarding spending more..... On ac?
@DIYOutdoorLife 20 күн бұрын
@@yoelglanz9696 running rooftop air conditioners can be prohibitively . I wanted to make sure you understood that this is possible, but something that is rarely done. I have worked on these systems before and seen them firsthand, so don't let anyone tell you it's impossible but it is usually someone who wants to live in the camper and money is no object.
@yoelglanz9696 20 күн бұрын
@@DIYOutdoorLife what do people who prefer boondocking usually do ? How would they run the AC if needed?
@DIYOutdoorLife 19 күн бұрын
@@yoelglanz9696 the overwhelming majority use a gas generator. For tiny campers, there's some DC air conditioners that can do a really good job, they are not gonna work on a big camper like yours. 99 out of 100 people in your situation get a large gas generator to run AC off grid. One out of 100 decided it's worth the money to buy the battery/solar needed to run that task. Others buy a modest off grid set up that works for everything except the air conditioning, they use a fan . If it's hot, they go to campgrounds where they can plug-in to get that utility connection.
@beverlyoberholzer17225 21 күн бұрын
😀🙂🙃😃😄🫠😉😁😆😊
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Thanks for tuning in ✌️
@Jeffrey.1978 18 күн бұрын
Good stuff - if only there was a double thumbs up function on KZfaq! 😜 Is there way I can send you a message or email?
@DIYOutdoorLife 18 күн бұрын
Thank you! diyoutdoorcontent@gmail.com
@CC_Marauder 21 күн бұрын
TFS. Please add a link in your description for the specific Vytron (?) Lithium Charger that you referenced in the video (time link below). NOTE TO SELF: 23:25 for referral
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Thank you! I can't believe I forgot. Here is the 10 amp version . There is also a five, 15, even a 30 depending on how fast you need . amzn.to/3RIbau6
@CC_Marauder 21 күн бұрын
TY
@ronbearden3370 21 күн бұрын
Thanks!
@DIYOutdoorLife 21 күн бұрын
Thank you for your generous support of the channel, it really helps me make videos without sponsors!
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