Recommended Battery For Current Inverter & Solar Panel Setup

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Question:

Thanks for the info. I have a progressive dynamics pd4060k.

asked by: Joe H

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Expert Reply:

The Go Power Lithium RV Battery, # 34282740 is a great choice and yes there is a statement of charge current having a recommended 50 amps with a max of 100 amps. However, please be aware that your Class C, like most campers, is a 30 amp service input from shore power/generator in the form of alternating current (AC). When talking about shore power, primarily from the power pedestals at campsites, there is typically an option of either 50 amp or 30 amp AC power. For some of us, I am including myself, it needs to be remembered that when talking amps there is a change from the 30 amp 120VAC input at the pedestal, to the 12VDC conversion then available from the distribution panel. The amps rating available increases greatly when converting from your AC power inlet to 12VDC and your RV's charger for the battery bank is converting that AC input to DC through the converter/charger. You will most likely have no issue with getting enough amperage to meet demands. However, please verify the settings before you install a lithium chemistry battery. If you can identify what manufacturer and model you have let me know and I will look up the specs.

There will be no issue changing from lead acid chemistry to lithium with your solar panels and inverter. It is the power that matters not the chemistry in the battery that stores it.

What I like about the Go Power Lithium RV Battery, # 34282740, is the built-in battery management system (BMS). This keeps the battery from operating outside of its safety margins and helps to optimize charging from solar controllers and onboard converter chargers. A battery bank with a full 250 usable AH is a good size for a Class C. And this provides it in one battery instead of having to wire multiples together to reach a good size bank for boondocking.

expert reply by: Michael R

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PD4060K
(click to enlarge)

Joe H.

10/13/2021

Thanks for the info. I have a progressive dynamics pd4060k.

Reply

Michael R.

10/13/2021

Glad to read that you have the Progressive Dynamics Mighty Mini, # PD4060K. Not only do we carry that model, but it is probably the one I recommend the most when someone is looking to upgrade/replace. If you step into a lithium battery bank, and recommend you do, you will need to set the converter/charger to the correct position. Please note the attached image. Simply switch between from lead acid to lithium batteries the small switch on the board which has printed LI for lithium and LA for lead acid. This integrated converter charger changes that 30-amp AC input from shore power that we previously discussed into DC power for charging the batter bank. And when you make repositioning of the switch to lithium mode, the unit uses a higher output voltage, up to 60 amps, to provide a complete charge. This will help extend the life of your battery because by selecting the appropriate charging profile, this unit you already have, is compatible with Go Power Lithium RV Battery, # 34282740 internal Battery Management System (BMS). This helps manage the charge cycle by monitoring the battery state and balancing cell voltage. You can follow the link for the # PD4060K to get a listing of the full specs. So, to reinforce the answer to your original question, yes, the Go Power Lithium RV Battery, # 34282740 is a great choice for your rig. The only other thing I can think of to suggest for your charge system on your battery bank, the possibility of installing a Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Battery Charger, # 331-BCDC1225D. This is a fantastic product that I am regularly getting positive feedback on. Although, you may not need it or receive the full value of it depending on your type of camping. If your solar panels are receiving a decent amount of sunlight while in storage, you are probably able to keep your battery bank at full charge without issue. If your style of camping is predominately done attached to full hook ups, then this will still be a great addition to your system but possibly not worth the investment. However, if you like to do a lot of touring type trips, boondocking and staying in basic campsites while on your trips or parking lots in route from point A to B, then can be of great value to you. What this does is uses your vehicle's electrical system to charge not only your start/crank battery but your RV's battery bank too while driving. Boondocking for the night can use a lot off battery power, and when heading to a new location in the morning, the solar panels will provide a charge if the weather is good but so too will the vehicle's electrical system when powered from the running engine. Checkout the linked product review videos to see if this is of value to you. I highly recommend this to anyone doing van-build, persons with a slide in truck camper and Class C Rv'ers that do a touring style camping or boondocking. Happy Camping! Let us know how we can further assist you with any information.

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Recommended Battery For Current Inverter & Solar Panel Setup

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