I recently switched from two lead-acid deep cycle 100Ah batteries to two 100Ah LiFePO4 batteries from Eco-Worthy, and I connected them to a Renogy Rover 40A MPPT solar charge controller. I made this change because my lead-acid batteries struggled to power my system through the night during the coldest winter months. So far, my new lithium batteries have been performing great, often showing over 99% charge, and I wonder if I might have only needed one lithium battery instead of two to match the performance of my previous lead-acid setup. Also, considering the temperature variations in winter, how much better does lithium perform in extreme conditions? I'm located in the greater Atlanta area, and any insight on this would be appreciated!
3 Answers
Lithium batteries are definitely a significant upgrade! You can discharge a LiFePO4 battery down to about 10-20%, while lead-acid batteries should not go below 50%. This means a single LiFePO4 battery can give you usable energy similar to two 90Ah lead-acid batteries. Just keep in mind that while lithium lasts longer and is more efficient, it can get tricky in freezing temperatures; they can’t be charged below freezing without risk of damage.
Totally! A main advantage of lithium over lead-acid is the discharge capacity and cycle longevity. Even if your lead-acid batteries were only two years old and you took care of them, they don't hold up well under heavy use like deeper discharges. Your lithiums are giving you a much better deal overall, just make sure they're kept above their charging threshold when it gets cold!
Right! Especially if your setup is in an uninsulated area. If the temp drops too low, you'll face charging issues. It seems like your new setup is much more reliable!
For sure, lithium batteries last so much longer! They can handle thousands of cycles down to zero without issue, unlike lead-acid which might give you only a few hundred if you push them too hard. Expect your LiFePO4 batteries to last 10-15 years, whereas lead-acid would need replacing several times.
And don’t forget about temperature sensitivity! Lithium batteries can’t charge below 0°C (-32°F), but they are good for discharging in colder temps, typically down to -20°C (-4°F). Just keep an eye on battery specs because performance can vary.
Exactly! Plus, lithium is lighter and more compact with built-in systems for maintenance, while lead-acid needs a lot more attention. I find lithium very appealing for long-term use without the hassles associated with lead-acid batteries.