Get to know more about Lithium rv battery-

Do you own a recreational vehicle? Do you know what miracle can a lithium rv battery do for you? Yes, there are rv Lithium-Ion batteries designed specifically for the needs of the Recreational Vehicle owners.

Lithium technology is understood and well proven for powering small electronic items like cordless tools, laptops, etc. It has gained increasing popularity in these applications with its numerous advantages. It has edged out earlier Nickel-Cadmium rechargeable battery chemistry. However, most of us might recall from several stories and news a few years back for defective laptop batteries catching fire or bursting into flame.

Formulation for normally used lithium-ion battery had been LiCoO2 (Lithium-Cobalt-Oxide). If this battery is overcharged accidentally, it is somewhat prone to thermal runaway. This could result into the battery setting itself on fire. Further, a lithium fire burns quickly. If this was a case with a small laptop battery, how nasty the fire would be if it was a large battery burning. Due to this, until recently, lithium was hardly ever used for large battery banks.

With some research, a new formulation LiFePO4 or LFP was developed in late nineties for lithium-ion batteries. These batteries having a slightly lower energy density were relatively safer than earlier versions. With more research and advancements, large scale LFP batteries are mass-produced. It initially targets the electric vehicle market. This clearly portray that we are now on the cusp of batteries becoming useful for RV.

Lithium rv battery means:

• No More Trickle Chargers
• Ready to Use
• No More Dead Batteries
• Capacity to Store Your coach/RV/Trailer
• Reduced Generator Use
• Higher Dry Camping Time

Understand the lithium difference-

In 1859, Lead acid battery was the first type of rechargeable battery developed. It is made from a mixture of sulfuric acid and lead plates. On the other hand, Lithium ion battery is a much newer invention.

Lithium Ion Batteries- amazing advantages

·         Higher Useable Capacity- Dissimilar to lead acid batteries, Li-ion batteries are supposed to be practical option.

·         Extended Life- A lithium-ion battery pack has the potential to possibly last longer for your RV. Off course these are theoretical results expected under certain conditions.

·         Efficient and fast Charging-LiFePO4 batteries can be charged quickly to 100percent of capacity. Dissimilar with lead acid, an absorption phase is not needed to get the final 20percent stored. This saves generator run time. With a powerful charger, lithium batteries can also be charged instantly just in few minutes.

·         Little Maintenance Requirements- Lithium batteries should be comparatively maintenance free. Definitely, an occasional balancing process will help all the cells in a battery bank to get equally charged. A well designed energy management system does this automatically.

As we are still in the experimental phase with our lithium rv battery system, they are far from maintenance free system. It is needed to perfect our setup. This newer technology it tested for RV use. The battery manufacturers are still trying to tweak the energy management system, which protects the batteries as well.

Proper Care of Lithium automotive battery

Days are no longer, when electric cars will be everywhere around us. Latest advancements in battery technology have resulted into development of the lithium automotive battery. Lithium battery is used extensively in various applications due to its various benefits including long life, high energy density and light weight. As the latest Lithium-ion batteries have higher densities as compared to earlier batteries. However, they have much lower densities than conventional fuels. 

Like with any technology, it is essential to take proper care while charging Lithium-ion batteries.  As all of us know, all other rechargeable batteries like the Ni-cads, lead-acid battery, etc. are potentially dangerous if they are charged properly. All these kinds of batteries present bursting hazards with excess heat, and potential fume.  So, you need to be aware about this and use it properly.

Charging lithium batteries is a simple procedure. However, it needs the specified charge rate, correct level of voltage, etc. Ensure to read, know, and follow the safety information correctly provided with any kind of battery you buy and use.

Make sure to charge any battery only as per the instructions of a manufacturer. Always use the charger built for specific battery type.  Many people use "universal" chargers. However, such chargers may not be built for the correct voltage or charge rate. Never use such chargers.

Remember, lithium-ion battery is unlike the Ni-cad based batteries. Let us have a look at some useful tips to maintain your new lithium automotive battery packs.

• Charge battery often- Do not completely discharge the battery packs often, as this can add strain.  Normal use and partial discharges with regular recharges are well again for lithium-ion battery than one discharged totally. Recharge a partially charged li-ion battery. This will never causes any damage.
• Avoid heat- Short battery life is more probably to be caused by heat rather than discharge/charge patterns.  Try to keep the battery pack cool. For example- avoid a hot automobile.
• Never charge the battery pack just to store it away. If you want to store battery pack for a longer duration, keep the battery at a 40percent charge level.
• Always use the correct charger. Remember, each kind of battery has its own technology. Rate of charge and other specifications may differ and hence, prefer charger recommended for specific make. Charging lithium battery packs properly is one way to extend the battery life. This will also help to avoid damage.
• Never use old batteries. Many people purchase extra lithium-ion batteries for future. Certainly, it makes perfect sense to have 2-3 extra battery packs. This will make it easy for you to have a fresh one charged up and ready to go. However, it is not a great idea to just purchase batteries for future use and keep them unused around for years.

All above points will help you take proper care of your lithium automotive battery and get the most out of it.