Can I Put a Lithium Battery in my Motorhome?
With over 50 years of trading experience in the battery industry, BBL Batteries has a thorough understanding of which battery is best for you . As a Caravan or Motorhome owner, you might be considering upgrading to a Lithium battery so this blog answers any questions or queries you have.
- Can I replace a lead acid leisure battery with lithium?
In all modern motorhomes, a Lithium battery can be a straight drop-in replacement for a Lead Acid battery. This is achieved by their design which has a closely aligned terminal voltage that allows the swift and straightforward interchange from Lead Acid to Lithium, so no structural alterations are needed for your caravan or motorhome. If you use solar to power your adventures it is likely that your solar panel has a specific setting to adjust to battery variants. In which case, a Lithium battery will also receive charge and no adjustments are needed.
⚠️ Warning: Older setups will likely need electrics updating so it is important to consult a professional when making the switch from Lead Acid to Lithium. We are always happy to help with this upgrade – contact your local branch today to start the process.
2. Do lithium batteries need a special charger?
It is important to ensure that your Lithium battery is charged with an appropriate charger so that it is kept in its best possible health. There are three methods at your disposal when considering your Lithium battery charger:
- Using a power outlet and a compatible AC to DC battery charger.
- Using solar panels and a compatible MPPT charge controller.
- Using a car or motorhome’s alternator and a compatible DC to DC onboard battery charger.
📌 Whilst Lithium batteries are easily interchangeable with Lead Acid batteries, their chargers are not interchangeable. This is due to Lead Acid chargers using varying voltages, whereas Lithium batteries require a constant voltage and current.
3. What are the advantages of lithium batteries?
Lithium batteries pose many advantages to the user – their longevity and usability makes them the advantageous choice for caravan and motorhome owners. They offer a longer lifespan due to the ability to withstand numerous charge and discharge cycles positioning them as the financially superior option. Their lightweight design makes them ideal for easy transportation and handling.
Lithium batteries require considerably lower maintenance than Lead Acid batteries enabling the motorhome user to travel without stress. Our Avon range of Lithium batteries have a bluetooth function that connects to the Avon LFP app on your phone so that you can monitor the performance and health of your battery without having to manually extract the battery from your vehicle.
4. What are the negatives of lithium batteries?
Lithium batteries pose two disadvantages – the first being a higher upfront cost. We would conclude that it is worth it in the long run to pay this cost as Lithium batteries will be more cost-effective and more user-friendly. However, the second disadvantage is their incompatibility with older electrics.
📌 We recommend getting in contact to discuss how we can assist you in making your vehicle compatible with Lithium technology.
5. How long will a lithium battery last and what can it power?
Lithium batteries can last up to 5000 cycles, whereas a Lead Acid battery will typically manage 200 but this can vary depending on depth of discharge and maintenance.
Lithium batteries can power a multitude of devices from a fridge to lights to a microwave. There are very few limitations that a Lithium battery has. Lithium batteries are well suited to solar panels giving you more freedom and providing further off-grid power.
As an NCC Member and trusted by thousands of customers across the UK, we can confidently suggest a range of Lithium batteries that will provide your caravan or motorhome with the power that it needs.
Designed for motorhome enthusiasts who plug in on their travels and do not need power for multiple appliances. Suitable for those who require lightweight batteries
AC1210B AVON BATTERY CHARGER 12V 10A 5 STAGE INTEL
Ensure you don’t receive any unexpected surprises with a flat battery on your travels. Our portable battery charger means that you can experience no stress.
Avon ALFP12100BT – 12.8V 100Ah
This Avon Battery provides a middle ground for those who plug in at campsites and also require off-grid power. Also suitable for motorhomes which do not need a heavier battery.
Avon ALFP12150BT – 12.8V 150Ah
The Avon ALFP12150BT can keep all your appliances powered during your off-grid adventures. This battery ensures you do not have to sacrifice any appliances or navigation when travelling.
BBL Batteries are experts in lithium upgrades for leisure, marine, solar and off-grid setups. If you are looking to upgrade your Lead Acid battery to a Lithium battery, we are your trusted partners in supplying the correct battery for your vehicle and ensuring that your vehicle electronics are compatible.
