Shore power battery charger choice?

[RobOfYork]

If you are using LiFePo4 12 volt batteries in your build. What battery charger do you use when plugged in to shore power?

I'm considering this one. I was told that it would be a better choice than the same brands lithium version of the charger. Any opinions on this?

Amazon.com: Progressive Dynamics PD9260CV Inteli-Power 9200 Series Converter/Charger with Charge Wizard - 60 Amp: Automotive

 

[tradesman]

That one is a good and USA made. Here's one I use with my lithium: Victron Energy Blue Smart IP67 12/24-Volt 5-25 amp Battery Charger (Bluetooth) Its available with 5 to 25Ah charging rates. The bluetooth feature is nice to monitor and adjust settings. Cost $102-$173 depending on amperage and voltage.

 

[B and C]

That converter is for lead acid type batteries and has 4 charge stages one of which has an equalizer stage at over 16 volts.

https://www.amazon.com/Progressive-Dynamics-PD9160ALV-Lithium-Center/dp/B07DP3X16F will give you the two stages lithium requires.

I just bought two battleborn batteries and am replacing my converter with this one: https://battlebornbatteries.com/pro...co-rv-power-centers-45-amp-lithium-converter/ as my rv came with a power center.

Best to buy one made for lithium or better yet, contact the manufacturer and get their recommendation.

 

[MotorVation]

I deleted my post. Foot in mouth. I was talking about the lithium version

 

[RobOfYork]

That converter is for lead acid type batteries and has 4 charge stages one of which has an equalizer stage at over 16 volts.

https://www.amazon.com/Progressive-Dynamics-PD9160ALV-Lithium-Center/dp/B07DP3X16F will give you the two stages lithium requires.

I just bought two battleborn batteries and am replacing my converter with this one: https://battlebornbatteries.com/pro...co-rv-power-centers-45-amp-lithium-converter/ as my rv came with a power center.

Best to buy one made for lithium or better yet, contact the manufacturer and get their recommendation.

That's the PD one I was originally looking at and was told not to use it and to use the one I posted in the first post. I'm leaning towards the ALV version for lithium. But totally confused on this since I'm getting mixed messages.

Thanks for posting.

 

[RobOfYork]

Here is why I was told not to use the lithium version. It would float the battery at 14.6v which will void the warranty of a LiFePo4 battery since that voltage is to high. It needs to float at a lower voltage.

Now it's getting really confusing.

 

[RobOfYork]

The plot thickens. Went over to the PD website and did some digging. If the PD9160ALV was manufactured in "2021" it drops down to 13.6 volts after the battery is fully charged.

That sounds like it would be fine for LiFePo4 batteries.

 

[B and C]

Getting information from the manufacturers is usually the best course.

Opinions you get from others (including me) is worth what you paid for it.

Good luck with your lithium's! I know I am anxiously waiting to get mine installed.

 

[Camper]

I have a PD9245CV charger that works well, but it is not for lithium batteries.

Their lithium charger is a 9100L series.

 

[RobOfYork]

I'm looking at the PD9160AL version as the front runner so far.

 

[wayne49]

@RobofYork

Are you going to use shore power or a fuel generator?

If the latter, make sure your generator can handle the load of a 60 amp charger.

I have no lithium experience, but I have a PD 45 amp charger that has worked well for over five years.

 

[RobOfYork]

Both shore power and generator. I have a 3500 watt continues generator. That should handle a 60 amp charger fine. A 60 amp charger only pulls about 1225 watts on the AC side. So that's about 11 amps.

 

[Matlock]

I think your on the right track now. For me it was a simple matter of emailing Progressive D and asking them the questions. They respond quickly.
If a reputable company markets a product that is built and sold specifically for one use then your halfway there.

PD9160ALV 12V .... Lithium Ion .....Battery Converter/Charger - 60 Amp