Hi All,
I have been running a 125 aH AGM in my camping rig (for coach battery) for five years and it finally gave up the ghost. This setup was only good for about 36 hours…so I ordered a matching pair of the same battery for a total of 250 aH.
Since I need to build storage for the additional battery, it’s time to upgrade my charging system. I’ve been doing a ton of research on Victron products and think I’m getting close.
Needs:
- Two VMAX SLR125 125 aH AGM batteries in parallel for a 12v system (both new)
- Usually use less then 4 amps when boondocking (for a bedroom fan at night and fridge at all times)
- Will be adding some LED lights for night use
- Jeep has 160 amp alternator
- Previously used a National Luna battery box and NOCO Gen2 (10 amp per bank) for shore power and charged straight off the alternator
Battery Specs:
- Specifications:
Nominal Voltage 12V
20Hr Capacity 125Ah
RC (min) 260
Energy (kWH) 1.7
Terminal Posts 8mm
Dimensions 12.9"w x 6.8"d x 8.5"h/8.7th**
Weight 75lb
Charging Current* 8A-35A
Charging Voltage 14.4V-14.9V
Float Voltage 13.5V-13.8V
Plan to order:
- Victron Blue Smart IP22 12/30 for shore power
- Orion Tr Smart DC-DC 12/12-30 for charging on alternator
- Victron shunt (TBD)
- BMV-712 monitor (TBD)
- Probably a Victron near-battery temp & voltage sensor (temp drops below freezing here in winter)
As you can see, this is a simple system and I’m only trying to add power for additional camp days. Solar charing is off the menu until I purchase a new roof top tent that will accommodate solar panels. For now, alternator and shore power will be the only charging methods.
I’m hoping that knowledgable people here can check my work and suggest any changes if I’m on the wrong track. There are no Victron dealers or installers in my area, and I worked in the car stereo field when young. I can handle the wiring, but it’s bee a while since I’ve tackled something so intricate.
Also, I’d like to make sure that all Victron components will handle a 200 aH LifePo4 bank in the future when these AGMs die again.
Am I correct in choosing a 30a charger for home and a 30a DC-DC for alternator charging?
Many thanks for any help!