WFCO8955 with LFP and Solar

[0rion]

Hi, I remember reading a post where someone decided to not upgrade their stock WFCO converter when they switched to LiFePo4 batteries, but uses it along with their solar power.

The thinking is that when connected to shore power the WFCO will do what it can, even with it's 3-stage lead acid profile, to bring the LiFePo4's up to X%, and the solar charge controller will supplement the rest of the charge with it set up for lithium - and even without sun the battery is happy at the lower state of charge anyway.

Did I read that on this forum, and if so, how is it working? My LFP battery will be installed much closer to the 8955 converter with larger gauge wires, can I expect it to perhaps spend some time in Bulk mode? Also, is the SCC connected or separated from the WFCO charge circuit to the battery (would I need to manually switch from the converter to the solar)?

[TitanMike]

I ran my stock WFCO8955 converter for the first season with new Battleborn batteries.

Charged to just over 90% and my portable solar panels finished the task.

You do not nead to switch over, just leave solar as nd converter connected. When Converter maxes out on voltage the solar will keep going until batteries are full.

Changing converter is not required. Topping off LiFePo4 batteries to 100% is only required periodically to achieve cell balancing. That can be accomplished with Solar or even a $30-$40 battery maintainer with Lithium capability.

Yes, a lithium capability converter is nice but it is not REQUIRED.

Something overlooked. LiFePo4 batteries require cell balancing after a series of deep discharges. This is accomplished by the BMS once the voltage rises above 14v.

Once charging ceases (you disconnect from shore power or stop driving) the voltage will drop to around 13.2-13.4 volts.

Your WFCO Converter will float around 13.25v.

[0rion]

Thanks - how did the WFCO handle it...bulk mode? Was it able to pump high amps? Would the fan kick in more than with lead acid?

[0rion]

Originally Posted by TitanMike

Yes, a lithium capability converter is nice but it is not REQUIRED.

You just saved me $300. This option isn't talked about enough - in all my research I just see that you must get a lithium converter. Thanks Mike.

[johnnynlin]

Originally Posted by TitanMike

I ran my stock WFCO8955 converter for the first season with new Battleborn batteries.

Charged to just over 90% and my portable solar panels finished the task.

You do not nead to switch over, just leave solar as nd converter connected. When Converter maxes out on voltage the solar will keep going until batteries are full.

Changing converter is not required. Topping off LiFePo4 batteries to 100% is only required periodically to achieve cell balancing. That can be accomplished with Solar or even a $30-$40 battery maintainer with Lithium capability.

Yes, a lithium capability converter is nice but it is not REQUIRED.

Something overlooked. LiFePo4 batteries require cell balancing after a series of deep discharges. This is accomplished by the BMS once the voltage rises above 14v.

Once charging ceases (you disconnect from shore power or stop driving) the voltage will drop to around 13.2-13.4 volts.

Your WFCO Converter will float around 13.25v.

What battery maintainer do you recommend?

[TitanMike]

Originally Posted by johnnynlin

What battery maintainer do you recommend?

There are several I'd recommend. NOCO, C-Tek, Battery Minder are names that come to mind first.

I use a NOCO Genius to maintain the battery on my TV but since I'm either plugged in at home, charging from my Tow Vehicle while driving, or using solar (weather permitting) I don't use it on my TT.

It automatically switches to Lithium mode when connected and I wouldn't hesitate to use it if my converter failed.


Check out Amazon as you can look at almost all the offerings and compare.