My current AGM batteries (domestic bank)are close to end of life and I am looking to replace them with Lithium.
My boat has twin engines with dedicated AGM starter batteries (which I want to retain) and a single domestic bank comprising 4 parallel connected batteries.
My question is what is the simplest solution using Victron products?
My current thinking is to use 2 x Orion XS to charge the single domestic bank comprising of 4 x Victron lithium 100 from the 2 AGM starter batteries but i’m not sure what Victron BMS is best suited? I already have 4 x Victron 75/15 smart mppt’s connected to the existing AGM domestic bank so ideally I want to protect these if the BMS shuts the batteries down for any reason like “Over Temperature” as an example.
I would check out Epoch batteries. They have communication with the Cerbo to manage charging. The Victron BMS can only send a signal to devices to disable charging. The Lynx smart BMS has a contactor that can open in an emergency, like a high-temperature cell under voltage.
Have a look at getting just a single Epoch battery. Look at the pros and cons of both and see what will work best.
Thanks, I’ll take a look at the batteries you’ve mentioned and the lynx BMS.
I’m only on a small boat so the simpler the better as far as I’m concerned as long as everything is completely safe. I can’t afford to be offshore and systems shutting down on me.
I’ve never had a problem with my AGM installation so introducing Lithium with a BMS system that can shut it down is slightly disconcerting.
A good battery with a good BMS does not shut down unless there is an emergency. They disable charge and discharge MOSFETs. The Epoch battery is a marine battery with good protection and communication. The Victron battery is good, but you will need the Lynx BMS, which requires a lot more wiring.
On the face of it, going with an alternative reputable Lithium battery manufacturer with built in BMS is going to keep the wiring simple which is what I’m after. I’m noticing a few manufacturers with built in Bluetooth for monitoring that sounds appealing.
Yes, there are plenty of options available, but none that are both marine-rated and have Victron communication capabilities. This one hits the sweet spot perfectly. If you need help deciding what components to install after your purchase, feel free to post another message either I’ll respond or someone else in the community will be happy to help if I miss it.
In the meantime time I need to build some sort of battery box with ventilation to accommodate the Lithium batteries because like on many older boats the current batteries are mounted in the engine bay on a shelf and regularly reach 40+°