A case study of upgrading a boat battery system

DRAFT

#Renogy is not the best but OK they are a #dotcons so have lots of coupons and discounts https://renogycanada.refr.cc/default/u/hamish think this is 10% off, there should be more, it’s a one shop.

Could try a more “native” path of https://www.bimblesolar.com/ but not as simple, though good if doing the solar panels as well.

The batteries are simple: https://uk.renogy.com/core-12v-24v-48v-200ah-deep-cycle-lithium-iron-phosphate-battery This could be done in a quick simple solar only way, maybe using the current #MPPT charge controller if it can be set for #LiFePO4 or if the charge controller needs replacing we could try for a much more complex dual engine and solar path: https://uk.renogy.com/dcc50s-12v-50a-dc-dc-on-board-battery-charger-with-mppt-new-version I did try and implement this more complex path 2 years ago, and it did not work, but with 2 years of upgrades it likely works OK now.

Then is a simply wiring and testing process, a bit of time, am happy to assist for mate’s rates as it’s a good thing to document for #DIY offgrid culture.

UPDATE:

#Bimble has come out with much cheaper batteries https://www.bimblesolar.com/batteries/12vbatts/Epever-12Vlifepo4-200Ah but no alternator engine charging path, so only the simple solar only path.

UPDATE:

The price of LiFePO4 has dropped so much that now it makes no sense to go for older technology need a new battery for my tender electric outboard, might try one of these https://aolithium.com/?ref=lifeboat anyone any experiences with the brand?

Boatingeurope LiFeP04 battery upgrade for liveaboard lifeboat

Looking at upgrading my boat liveing battery setup. Am following this guide to dip my toe in, currently my main 500amp leadacide battery bank has failed after 4 years use due to a fault on my #MPPT solar controller with the boat left on hard standing in romania over winter. Being under voltage for a few months killed them.

Last year in the spring while on the danube delta I did a quick fix by rewiring to an old 110amp good quality starter battery I had as the boat liveing bank. This has lasted us through this year on low power usage overnight.

It’s time to get a better setup.

On order: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/4000306076197.html and https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32921460278.html