I just installed a 100Ah LiFePO4 battery in my truck camper, very minimal draw. No solar, will just shore charge when in town. A web-site advised the Blue Smart IP22 was the best charger to mount permanently in the camper for this application. However, a lot of comments bring up concern of heat and need to have air flow. Makes sense on a conceptual level, but what does this mean? Even a vented RV compartment may not have good “air flow” during an outing. I prefer to not open the compartment to the interior of the camper. Does one need to open an external door (larger opening) when using this product? Heat in an enclosed compartment spells trouble. Any insights?
@Drew
They have a built in fan (correction not all models). So really you just need a few holes for venting the hot air and to draw in cooler air.
How big is the compartment? Heat really means derating, so if you can live with that then its fine.
The 12/15 and 24/8 are passive cooling with no fan. Also try mounting upright to aid cooling with natural airflow.
Thanks for the correction. I forgot that those two models don’t have a fan.
Tech specs
Hi @Drew
Some advice from Craig Murray, the Australian sales manager who sells as many of these units as anyone in the world.
The Blue Smart IP22 model is designed for Caravan/RV market.
It has an internal fan and is ideal for compartment use and has night mode [reduced current so that the fan does not run] for the very reason it will usually be installed in the caravan under a bunk or seat or cabinet with other basic electrics etc.
Minimum 100mm around the charger & not on flammable floors or walls. General air vents are normally installed in under bed and seat locations to reduce mould etc in Vans/RV’s.
A good tip is to install onto a sheet of checker plate if it is then screwed to internal ply/ timber surface. The Checker plate draws heat way from the charger.
Whilst the charger can be mounted flat – more air space will help. Mounted upright the natural airflow will be better.
Thank you everyone for your replies. Great advice.