Home > Support

SUPPORT

We are here to help you.

HELP CENTER

RESOURCES

CONTACT US

FAQ

SHIPPING & RETURNS

WARRANTY INFO

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Warranty

We're dedicated to making the most reliable batteries on the planet. But we understand that things happen, so if anything is wrong with your product, we'll work to make it right with our 1 year limited warranty.

Any product(s) damaged in shipping (when ordered from ExpertPower Direct) or defective product(s) must be returned directly to ExpertPower in the original box or adequate cardboard packaging, using our prepaid shipping label. The Return Authorization Number (RMA#) must be included with the product.

View Full Warranty Information HERE

Return Policy

We want to be sure you’re as happy with your batteries as we are. If you’re not 100% satisfied with your purchase, you can return it for a refund within 90 days. For products purchased directly from an authorized dealer, their return policy applies — please contact them directly for more information.

ExpertPower is able to accept returns on products that are within warranty and sold by ExpertPower Direct.

Return labels are provided for up to 90 days after initial delivery which fall under the manufacturer's warranty (i.e. defective/quality-related) or in the case in which a wrong product is sent out.
If within 90 days, and not a quality-related return, the customer will return the product at their own cost and be subject up to a 20% restocking fee.
All returns after the 90 day window must be returned by the customer. Packages in excess of $100 should have insurance coverage purchased for them to be prepared in case of a lost package. We are under no obligation to refund/replace without receiving the item that was sent out.

Restocking fees apply in the following scenarios:- Refund after items test non-defective
- Wrong item ordered
- No longer need the itemWe will not honor any returns in which the wrong product is sent to us.

View Full Return Policy HERE

Shipping / Order Tracking

We want to get you your batteries as quickly as possible, which is why we make every effort to process your order quickly so you can get your system or gear up and running right away.

ExpertPower offers free USPS Shipping on every order regardless of purchase price. Valid in the contiguous United States (excludes HI & AK)

View Full Shipping Information HERE

TECHNICAL - LIFEPO4 BATTERY

SLA vs LiFePO4

Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries operate at 13.8V or 2.3V per cell (6 cells) and have a lifespan of 300 to 500 charging cycles. They are generally more affordable upfront, with an average cost per cycle of $.92. SLA batteries can be charged with any standard SLA charger, making them user-friendly. They are also compatible with series/parallel setups and self-balance due to the nature of their chemical structure. SLA batteries are simple to use and can be easily dropped in without any extra precautions.

On the other hand, Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries operate at 14.6V or 3.65V per cell (4 cells) and have a lifespan of 2500 to 7000 charging cycles. They have a higher upfront cost, but a lower average cost per cycle of $.27. LiFePO4 batteries require a LiFePO4 charger (as opposed to a standard SLA charger) and a battery management system (BMS) to protect their delicate internal structure. They are also lightweight due to the materials used in their construction. However, their internal battery management system must be able to support series/parallel setups.

Learn more HERE!

Why can't I use my SLA charger?

The following is clarification on charging a sealed lead acid battery (SLA) vs the LiFePO4 battery, and why the BMS can't protect a LiFePO4 from SLA charging damage.

First, let's touch on the charging characteristics as both batteries have unique charging processes that take full advantage of their chemistries thus maximizing lifespan and performance!

- SLA: Typical lead acid batteries have a full charge voltage of 13.8 volts or 2.3V per cell (6 cells). SLA cells have the unique property of balancing themselves out. As such, lead acid chargers just need to provide a voltage higher than battery's voltage to bring the battery to its maximum state of charge (13.8V).

- SLA chargers: Most lead acid smart chargers provide 3 stages of charging: bulk, absorption, and float-- each with their own respective function. (Keep the float stage in mind, I’ll get back to this in a bit)

(Float charging keeps a lead acid battery at 100% state of charge as they have high self-discharge rates)

Voltages are unique to each type of battery as their chemistries have differing energy densities.

- LiFePO4: LiFePO4's voltage sits at 14.6V or 3.65V per cell (4 cells). An SLA charger will read 13.8V from this battery when discharged and think it is fully charged when in it is not, leading to disappointing capacity. Some chargers may even bypass the bulk and absorption stages and keep the battery float charging which basically means it won’t even charge since the charger thinks the battery is 100%! Keep in mind, some SLA smart chargers perform equalization of the battery's cells which will damage the LiFePO4's cells as well!

- LiFePO4 chargers: Chargers for LiFePO4 perform 2 stages called "Constant Current/Constant Voltage" (CC/CV). A preset current charges the battery up to a preset voltage then the current lowers as soon as it hits that preset voltage up until it reaches a 100% state of charge (14.6V). The BMS can't protect a LiFePO4 battery from an SLA charger because keeping a LiFePO4 battery at 100% through float charging isn't necessarily harmful in the short-term, but in the long term it will speed up aging of the cells as their activity is constantly stimulated due to the extra power coming from the SLA charger. This extra stimulation leads to polarization (buildup of material where the electrodes make contact with the electrolyte) and electrolyte decay.

It's absolutely necessary to use the correct charging algorithm (CC/CV ; 14.4V) as SLA smart chargers WILL NEVER fully charge a LiFePO4 battery or charge it ADEQUATELY enough to provide maximum lifespan and efficiency. Too much charging voltage for too long and you risk breaking down LiFePO4's internal electrolyte, too much charging current for too long and you shorten the lifespan of the cells.

Can I replace the old SLA battery with a LiFePO4 battery in my gate opener/ UPS/ alarm system?

     It is generally not recommended to use Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries as drop-in replacements for Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries. While LiFePO4 batteries and SLA batteries both produce DC electricity and can be used in similar applications, they have different operating characteristics and require different charging profiles. So, it is generally not a good idea in appliances with built-in chargers as they will have different charging profiles.

     One of the main differences between LiFePO4 batteries and SLA batteries is the voltage at which they operate. LiFePO4 batteries typically operate at a higher voltage than SLA batteries, with a typical operating voltage 12.8V on LiFePO4 batteries compared to 12.0V on SLA batteries. Similarly during charge your LiFePO4 batteries require 14.4V during charge or 13.8V if they are SLA batteries, meaning if your appliance or device has a built-in SLA charger it will never fully charge your LiFePO4 battery and not get all the available capacity.

     Additionally, LiFePO4 batteries generally require a specialized charger that is designed to charge them at the proper voltage and rate. Using an SLA charger to charge LiFePO4 batteries can lead to overcharging and damage to the batteries. This is the common case on appliances with built-in charging systems like a gate-opener, UPS, or alarm system.

     It's generally a good idea to consult the manufacturer or a qualified technician before using LiFePO4 batteries as drop-in replacements for SLA batteries in order to ensure that the proper precautions are taken and that the charging and electronic systems are compatible with the higher operating voltage of the LiFePO4 batteries.

TECHNICAL - LEAD ACID BATTERY

Do I need to Charge the battery before using?

Most of our batteries come with no less than 75% of charge. We recommend to discharge the battery no less than 50%. This principle will give you a longer life span for the battery.

How do I recharge my battery?

If you know your battery's voltage, you can know what type of charger you will need. A 12v battery requires a 12v charger and a 6v battery requires a 6v charger.

The amperage of the charger should not exceed 20% of the battery’s amperage (e.g. 12v 20ah battery = 12v 4ah charger)

A helpful feature that most chargers have is the ability to automatically shut off once the battery is fully charged. Check the user manual for your charger to verify whether or not it has that capability. You will damage the battery by constantly charging it.

How long will my battery last?

Depending on how the battery is charged and discharged, lead acid batteries generally last 3-5 years.

What is the battery shelf life?

We recommend recharging every 3 months to preserve the lifespan of the batteries.

TECHNICAL - SOLAR PANEL KIT

Why do my batteries shut down when I turn on the inverter?

Inverters have powerful components inside of them called capacitors that store energy in the form of an electric field to be released in short but fast burst of energy. Just like the capacitors release energy quickly, they also charge rapidly, and the electric potential between the capacitor and the battery can sometimes create an arc of plasma which we experience as a spark or an lightning arc between the battery and the inverter.

This electric arc can damage the terminals or delicate circuitry inside of the battery or inverter. In order to prevent this, it is recommended to install a pre-charge circuit to avoid excessive inrush current, which can damage the battery or inverter. In the case of a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery with a battery management system (BMS) connected to an inverter, a pre-charge circuit can help to protect the BMS from an excessive inrush of current when the inverter is turned on.

To use a small resistor to pre-charge the capacitors in an inverter, you will need to connect the resistor in series with the inverter by placing it between the cable and the inverter/battery’s negative terminal for at least 10-15 seconds before quickly finishing the circuit and tightening the bolt, the resistor is placed in the path of the current that flows from the inverter to the capacitor. The resistor will limit the flow of current into the capacitor, allowing it to charge up gradually and avoid an excessive inrush of current. Keep in mind that this is just a temporary solution, and it is recommended to install a more comprehensive pre-charge circuit for long-term use. A pre-charge circuit will provide more control over the charging process and can help to protect the inverter and the battery from damage.

Why do my batteries drain overnight?

Sometimes, especially during winter or during cloudy days, you may wake up to an empty battery or at really low charge. But, how can this happen if you had few or no appliances running overnight? If you are having trouble with keeping your batteries charged overnight, you may want to check if it is your inverter consuming all that power overnight.

Your inverter is an essential component of your solar system that converts the direct current (DC) electricity stored by your batteries into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is what is used to power your devices and appliances. While inverters are designed to operate continuously, there are certain situations in which it may be beneficial to turn them off, such as at night or when the system is not in use. Just like you would not leave a generator running over night, turning off at night or while not in use might be a good idea.

Low-frequency inverters are generally able to support higher and longer surge power consumption than high-frequency inverters because they use a transformer to step up or step down the voltage of the AC output. The transformer in a low-frequency inverter is able to store a significant amount of energy in its magnetic field, which can then be released to support a surge in power consumption. But this transformer requires a constant supply of power in order to maintain the magnetic field that is necessary for its operation.

In contrast, high-frequency inverters do not typically use a transformer and instead rely on smaller, numerous solid-state semiconductors that do not require a constant power supply. As a result, high-frequency inverters generally consume less power while idle than low-frequency inverters. These components are generally not able to store as much energy as a transformer and are therefore less able to support a surge in power consumption, more power stressed parts normally mean reduced reliability as well.

One reason to turn off your low-frequency inverter at night is to conserve energy. When the sun is not shining and the panels are not producing electricity, if there are no appliances that require constant AC power, turning off the inverter can also help to reduce energy consumption. By turning off the inverter at night, you can save energy on your battery and potentially extend the life of the inverter.

Additionally, leaving the inverter on can drain the batteries quickly, leading to increased wear and tear on the device and potentially shorter lifespan. By adding energy conservation and protection, turning off the inverter at night or when not in use can also improve the overall efficiency of your solar energy system, which saves you money over time. When the inverter is not operating, it is not consuming any energy, which means that more of the electricity produced by the panels is available for use.

While turning off the inverter at night or when not in use can offer a number of benefits, it is important to carefully consider your specific needs and the design of your solar energy system before making any changes. Consult with a professional solar panel installer or electrician to determine the best course of action for your situation. In conclusion, turning off the inverter at night or when not in use can help to conserve energy, protect the inverter from damage, and improve the efficiency of your solar energy system. While it is not always necessary or appropriate to turn off your inverter at night, it is worth considering in certain situations and consulting with a professional for guidance.

Why are my solar panels operating below their rated performance?

You may have noticed on your solar charge controller's display or companion Solar App that your solar panels may be producing less power than what they were rated at. Solar panels do not always operate at their rated performance due to a variety of factors that can affect their efficiency. Some of the most common reasons include:

     1. Temperature: The temperature of the solar panel can affect its efficiency. As the temperature of the panel increases, its efficiency tends to decrease. This is because the heat can cause the materials in the panel to expand, which can reduce the ability of the panel to absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity.
     2. Shading: If a solar panel is shaded by trees, buildings, or other objects, it will not be able to absorb as much sunlight and will therefore produce less electricity.
     3. Angle of incidence: The angle at which the sunlight hits the solar panel can also affect its performance. Solar panels are generally most efficient when they are perpendicular to the sun's rays. If the panel is tilted at an angle, it may not be able to absorb as much sunlight and will therefore be less efficient.
     4. Dust and dirt: If the surface of the solar panel is covered in dust or dirt, it can block some of the sunlight from reaching the solar cells and reduce the panel's efficiency.
     5. Charge controller type: The type of charge controller used in a solar panel system, such as a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) or pulse width modulation (PWM) controller, can also affect the performance of the system. MPPT controllers are generally more efficient at extracting power from the panels, with some estimates suggesting that they can be up to 30% more efficient than PWM controllers. MPPT controllers are able to track the maximum power point of a panel and adjust the voltage and current accordingly, while PWM controllers simply pulse the voltage on and off at a fixed frequency. However, MPPT controllers are also typically more expensive than PWM controllers.

6. Age: As solar panels age, their efficiency tends to decrease. This is due to factors such as degradation of the materials in the panel and damage from weathering and wear and tear.

By understanding and addressing these factors, it is possible to optimize the performance of a solar panel system and maximize its efficiency. It is possible that solar panels may not perform at their rated levels even when accounting for various factors that can affect their efficiency. This is because solar panel ratings are typically determined under highly controlled conditions known as Standard Test Conditions (STC), which may not always be representative of real-world conditions. In contrast, real-world conditions may vary significantly and can include factors such as temperature, shading, angle of incidence, and dust and dirt, all of which can impact the performance of a solar panel. As a result, it is common for solar panels to perform at levels lower than their STC ratings in real-world conditions.

What are Standard Testing Conditions (STC)?

Standard Testing Conditions (STC) are the conditions under which solar panels are rated and compared. These conditions are established in a laboratory setting in order to provide a consistent basis for comparison. The STC for solar panels are defined as:

• A solar irradiance of 1000 watts/square meter

• A panel temperature of 25°C (77°F)

• An atmospheric pressure of 1 atmosphere (1013.25 hPa)

These conditions are intended to simulate intense sunlight, with the sun directly overhead at an optimal angle of interaction. It's important to note that real-world conditions may differ from STC, which can affect the performance of a solar panel. For example, the efficiency of a panel may be reduced in hot weather due to the increase in temperature. Similarly, the efficiency of a panel may be reduced in the winter due to the sun being lower on the horizon, resulting in increased atmospheric absorption of sunlight. Additionally, most panels do not point directly at the sun for the majority of the day, which can also reduce efficiency. These factors, combined with voltage drop and other factors such as dirt and shadows, can significantly reduce the performance of a solar panel compared to its STC rating. As a result, it is common to see solar panels perform at between 67% and 75% of their rated wattage in real-world conditions. For example, a 100-watt panel may produce 67-80 watts under optimal conditions.

For this reason, some solar panels will have two different ratings corresponding to different testing conditions: Standard Test Conditions (STC) and Nominal Operating Cell Temperature (NOCT) are two different sets of conditions under which solar panel performance is measured. STC involve a solar irradiance of 1000 watts per square meter, a cell temperature of 25°C, and an atmospheric pressure of 1 atmosphere, while NOCT involves an irradiance of 800 watts per square meter, a panel surface temperature of 45°C (+/- 3°C), a wind speed of 1 meter per second, and an air temperature of 20°C.

Max Power at STC refers to the maximum power output of a solar panel when tested under STC conditions, while Max Power at NOCT refers to the maximum power output of a panel under NOCT conditions. Max Power at STC is often used as a standard measure of the size of a solar panel, while Max Power at NOCT is a more realistic measure of a panel's performance under typical real-world conditions. By choosing a panel with a high Max Power at NOCT, it is possible to select a panel that will perform better under the specific conditions of a particular location. For most brands, Max Power at NOCT is around 72-74% that of Max Power at STC.

How can I increase my solar power production?

It is important to understand the relationship between Standard Testing Conditions and real-world performance of solar panels. This can help you accurately evaluate the performance of a solar panel and make informed decisions about its use. It's also important to consider the specific conditions under which a solar panel will be used, as these can affect its performance. Factors such as temperature, atmospheric conditions, and the angle of the sun can all play a role in the efficiency of a solar panel. By understanding these factors, you can better predict the performance of a solar panel and ensure that it is used to its full potential.

One of the solutions to poor performance from your solar panels due to weather, shade or geographical location can be oversizing your solar panel array. Oversizing a solar panel array refers to installing a larger capacity of solar panels than is needed to meet the electricity needs of a particular site or application. This can be done for a variety of reasons, such as to ensure that the solar panel system can generate enough electricity to meet the demand at times when the sun is not shining at its maximum intensity, or to provide a buffer against future increases in electricity demand.

There are potential benefits to oversizing a solar panel array, such as increased energy production and the ability to sell excess electricity back to the grid. However, there are also potential drawbacks, such as increased upfront costs and the need for larger battery systems to store excess energy. It's important to carefully consider the specific needs and circumstances of a site before deciding whether or not to oversize a solar panel array.

Should I oversize my solar panel array?

There are several reasons why it may be beneficial to oversize a solar panel array:

1. The maximum power output of a solar panel is measured under Standard Test Conditions (STC), which involve 1000 watts per square meter of light at a cell temperature of 25°C. These conditions are rarely, if ever, met in real-world conditions, particularly in California. Factors such as the pitch and orientation of the roof, the direction the panels are facing, and the temperature can all affect the performance of a solar panel.

2. Even if the maximum DC output of the solar panels exceeds the maximum output of the inverter, a good quality solar charge controller will "clip" the output to match its maximum AC capacity. This can result in a "flat top" effect on the inverter's production curve. However, this also means that the system will produce more electricity at other times of the day when the inverter's maximum capacity is not being used.

3. In some cases, oversizing the array can help to maximize the benefits of a solar system while still being eligible for feed-in tariffs, which are often capped at a certain capacity.
4. It may be more cost-effective to downsize the inverter slightly and purchase additional panels to increase the overall capacity of the system. For example, a 3-kW system might be better served with a 2.5 kW inverter and a couple of extra panels to bring the total capacity to 3.5 kW, particularly if the panels are split across two roof directions.

Different organizations recommend that you oversize a solar array by up to 33% (DC to AC capacity). In some cases, it may be possible to exceed this amount as long as it falls within the technical specifications of your solar charge controller.

What are the different ways of connecting solar panels?

     You may have noticed your solar kit included adapters to connect your solar panels together and you may be wondering why they do not seem to have slots to fit all of the solar panels; this may be because your solar system was curated to best charge your batteries. Solar panels are often connected in one of three ways: series, parallel, or a combination of both, called a series-parallel connection. Each type of connection has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on the specific application and the requirements of the solar panel system.

     In a series connection, the positive terminal of one solar panel is connected to the negative terminal of the next panel, and so on. This increases the voltage of the system, but keeps the current the same. For example, if you have four 12-volt solar panels connected in series, the total voltage of the system would be 48 volts.

     In a parallel connection, the positive terminals of all the panels are connected together, and the negative terminals are connected together. This increases the current of the system, but keeps the voltage the same. For example, if you have four 12-volt solar panels connected in parallel, the total current of the system would be four times that of a single panel, and the voltage would remain at 12 volts.

     When connecting solar panels in series or parallel, it's important to use panels with the same voltage and current ratings to ensure optimal power production. If you mix solar panels with different voltage or current ratings, it can lead to a phenomenon known as "mismatch loss," which can significantly lower the power production of the entire solar panel array.

     Mismatch loss occurs when the solar panels in a series or parallel connection are not producing power at the same level. The panel with the lowest power output limits the power production of the entire array. This means that even if the other panels in the array are producing power at their maximum capacity, the overall output of the array will be limited by the performance of the weakest panel. This can result in a significant loss of power, and can reduce the overall efficiency of the solar panel system.

     For example, if you connect a solar panel with a maximum power output of 200 watts to another solar panel with a maximum power output of 250 watts, the overall power production of the array will be limited to 200 watts because the weaker panel (200W) will be the limiting factor. In this case, you would have lost 50 watts of potential power production. This is due to panel with the lower power output limiting the maximum current production in the case of series connection or limiting the maximum voltage in parallel connections.

     Therefore, it's generally recommended to use solar panels with the same specifications and ratings, particularly with respect to their maximum power output, to minimize mismatch loss and maximize power production.
A series-parallel connection is a combination of both a series and a parallel connection. It combines the advantages of both, allowing for both a higher voltage and a higher current. This connection is typically used in larger solar panel systems that require both high voltage and high current to power a specific load or set of loads.

     Each type of connection have its own benefits and drawbacks, for example, if you have a high voltage requirement then series connection is useful for it, or if you have high current requirement then parallel is useful for it.

     In summary, the choice of solar panel connection depends on the specific requirements of the solar panel system and the loads that it needs to power. It's important to consider factors such as voltage and current when designing a solar panel system, and to choose the appropriate type of connection to best meet those requirements. Consult with expert and professional before proceeding to install.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of wiring solar panels in series or parallel?

Wiring solar panels in series or in parallel are two common ways to connect multiple panels together to form a larger solar array. Both have their advantages and disadvantages and the best choice depends on the specific requirements of the solar panel system.

Wiring solar panels in series has the advantage of increasing the voltage of the system, while keeping the current the same. This is useful for systems that require a higher voltage to power a specific load or set of loads. For example, a system that requires a higher voltage to charge a battery bank or power a grid-tie inverter. One of the main benefits of series connection is that it allows for a longer distance between the panels and the inverter or charge controller. This is because the voltage adds up, and the current stays the same; higher voltage means that the cables can be thinner, reducing the cost of the installation.

High voltage panel arrays are also more efficient in low light conditions meaning your energy production can start earlier in the day and continue later at night. This is because batteries need a higher than nominal voltage to start charging, if your solar panel array is connected in series the higher starting voltage allows for your batteries to start charging with less sunlight as the voltage will always remain significantly higher than that of your batteries.

However, wiring solar panels in series also has some drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is that if one panel in the series becomes damaged or fails, the entire string will not work. This can reduce the overall reliability of the system and make it more difficult to troubleshoot and repair. Having one or several panels under shade can also bring down the power production of the entire array. Additionally, mismatch loss may occur when connecting solar panels with different voltage or current ratings, which can significantly lower the power production of the entire solar panel array.

Wiring solar panels in parallel has the advantage of increasing the current of the system, while keeping the voltage the same. This is useful for systems that require a higher current to power a specific load or set of loads. For example, a system that requires a higher current to charge a large battery bank or power a high-wattage load. The main benefit of parallel connection is that it allows for more flexibility in terms of the type and number of solar panels that can be used. If one panel in the parallel connection fails or becomes damaged, the rest of the panels will continue to produce power, reducing the impact of panel failure on the overall system.

However, wiring solar panels in parallel also has some drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is that the distance between the panels and the inverter or charge controller must be kept short and with thicker wires, which can increase the cost of the installation. Additionally, if the current rating of the panels is not equal, then the one with the lower rating will be the limiting factor and will lower the overall output of the system.

In summary, wiring solar panels in series or in parallel both have their advantages and disadvantages. The choice of connection depends on the specific requirements of the solar panel system and the loads that it needs to power. It's important to consider factors such as voltage, current, and the distance between the panels and the inverter or charge controller when designing a solar panel system, and to choose the appropriate type of connection to best meet those requirements. It's always good to take professional help and consult with experts in the field before proceeding with the installation.

Can I replace the SLA batteries in my RV/Camper with LiFePO4 batteries?

     Yes, you can definitely upgrade your RV, Camper, or Van conversion from SLA batteries to LiFePO4 batteries; but there are some considerations you should keep in mind. Recreational vehicles are often equipped with lead-acid batteries, also known as sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries, to provide power for various appliances and systems when not connected to external power sources. However, many RV and camper owners are now considering replacing their SLA batteries with lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries for various reasons.

     LiFePO4 batteries are a type of lithium-ion battery that have several advantages over traditional SLA batteries. For example, they have a longer lifespan, typically lasting 3-5 times longer than SLA batteries, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run. They also have a higher energy density, which means they can store more energy in a smaller and lighter package. This is particularly useful for RVs, campers, and van conversions where space is often at a premium. LiFePO4 batteries also have a wider operating temperature range and are less affected by deep discharge cycles, making them more reliable and durable.

     Another advantage of LiFePO4 batteries over SLA batteries is that they have a built-in battery management system (BMS) that monitor and protect the battery from overcharging, over-discharging, and over-currents, which is not present in SLA batteries.

     However, there are also some downsides to consider when replacing SLA batteries with LiFePO4 batteries in an RV. For example, LiFePO4 batteries are more expensive than SLA batteries, and the initial cost can be a significant factor for some RV owners. It is also important to note that LiFePO4 batteries require a different charging system than SLA batteries, so the RV's existing charging system may need to be replaced or modified, which can also add to the cost. When upgrading an RV from SLA batteries to LiFePO4 batteries, it's important to note that different charging and electrical components may need to be changed as well.

     The charging system of an RV is typically designed to work with SLA batteries and may not be compatible with LiFePO4 batteries. For example, SLA batteries require a different charging profile and a lower charging voltage than LiFePO4 batteries, so the RV's existing charging system may need to be replaced or modified to work with the new batteries. For example, the existing charge controller is not capable of properly charging LiFePO4 batteries, a new charge controller that is specifically designed for LiFePO4 batteries should be used. Similarly, inverters and converters may need to be swapped for LiFePO4 compatible ones, and if your vehicle has an isolator to charge your batteries from the alternator, you will need to upgrade it to a compatible DC-DC converter.

     Additionally, the electrical components such as wiring, fuses and breakers that are used in the RV may not be rated for the same voltage and current levels of your new LiFePO4 batteries. It is important to ensure that the wiring and other electrical components can safely handle the increased voltage and current of the LiFePO4 batteries to avoid hazards such as fires or electrical shocks.

     It is important to consult with an electrician or professional in the field to determine the specific changes that need to be made to the charging system and electrical components when upgrading an RV from SLA batteries to LiFePO4 batteries. They can help in identifying the correct components and make sure everything is properly installed and wired.
In summary, replacing SLA batteries with LiFePO4 batteries in an RV can offer several advantages, such as longer lifespan, higher energy density, and better performance in extreme temperatures. However, it's important to consider the additional cost, and the compatibility of the charging system with the new batteries before making a decision. It's recommended to consult with a professional or an expert in the field before proceeding with replacement.

TECHNICAL - POWER STATIONS

Can the power station battery be replaced?

At this time, the battery is not user replaceable. This is something we are currently looking into and hope to integrate into future versions of our Alpha generators.

All repair and replacement service must be completed by a certified ExpertPower technician.

What is the battery shelf life?

We recommend recharging the Alpha generators every 3 months to preserve the lifespan of the batteries.

Do the power stations have a built in charge controller?

Yes, every Alpha model has a built-in solar charge controller to regulate the input voltage and current of your panel. (panel not included)

THE EXPERTS VOICE PROGRAM

What is the Expert's Voice Program?

The Expert’s Voice program was created to encourage feedback as well as utilize our users’ perspective by providing our products at a discounted price. It is our goal to provide reliable and quality to products to all of our consumers. The feedback we receive from our users is vital information for our improvement as a company.

What are the benefits of this program?

Promotional discount codes will be provided to those who are willing to test our products and provide feedback on their experience.

How do I get started?

If you are interested in letting your voice be heard about our products you can contact us directly. If you could please provide us with a viewing of your online presence and influence whether through: social media, blogs, tech websites, etc.

Where should I leave my review?

In order to be fully compliant with Amazon’s regulations and we do not require you to leave a review on Amazon for any product received for free or at a discount.

For the sample you will receive, please post your product experience on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc.), YouTube, blogs, deal websites or other websites you would like to share your experience. It is our goal that your feedback and experience will enhance our products as well as expose our company to others.