Dawnice Battery

Dawnice LiFePO4 Deep-Cycle Batteries

Dawnice batteries use lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry and an integrated battery management system (BMS) to deliver consistent voltage, deep-cycle durability, and strong protections against over/under-voltage and temperature extremes. They are a reliable foundation for RVs, boats, tiny homes, and backup power.

When to Choose (and When to Reconsider)

• Choose Dawnice if: you need quiet, maintenance-light power; want fast recharging from solar or alternator; run sensitive electronics/inverters; or plan to expand capacity later with parallel modules.
• Reconsider/avoid if: you need an engine-start battery; you must charge regularly below 32°F (0°C) and your model lacks low-temp charging protection/heating; or your alternator output cannot be limited and you will not use a DC-DC charger.

Right-Size Your Battery Bank

Estimate daily energy use, then size your bank so it covers 1.2–1.5× that amount for weather, shade, and efficiency losses.

1. List devices, record watts (W), multiply by hours used per day to get watt-hours (Wh).
2. Add them up. Multiply total by 1.2–1.5 for a safety margin.
3. Convert to amp-hours (Ah): Ah ≈ Wh ÷ (system volts). For LiFePO4 at 12V, use 12.8V nominal for a closer estimate.

Charging and System Integration

• Solar (MPPT): Set a LiFePO4 profile. Typical 12V pack settings: bulk/absorb 14.2–14.6V; float 13.4–13.6V (or disable float). For 24V systems, double these values. Verify your specific model’s guidance.
• Alternator: Use a DC-DC charger to limit current and protect both alternator and battery. As a rule of thumb, charge current of 0.2C is gentle (e.g., 20A for a 100Ah battery); up to 0.5C may be acceptable if the model allows it.
• Inverter/charger: Select the LiFePO4 profile and set absorption time short (10–30 min after reaching absorb voltage) to avoid overcharging. Many systems prefer minimal or no float.
• Temperature: Do not charge below the specified low-temperature limit (commonly around 32°F/0°C) unless the battery has low-temp charging protection/self-heating. Discharging at low temps is generally allowed with reduced performance.

Installation Best Practices

• Mount securely with ventilation room around terminals; protect from spray and vibration.
• Use appropriately sized, tinned copper cable; keep voltage drop under ~3% on long runs.
• Install a main fuse within 7 inches (18 cm) of the positive terminal; fuse each charge source branch.
• Parallel batteries on busbars (not battery studs) with equal-length leads for current sharing.
• Torque lugs to spec, use heat-shrink, and check connections periodically.
• Do not mix old and new batteries or different capacities in the same series/parallel string.

Runtime Scenarios

• Weekend van (light loads): 0.8–1.5 kWh/day → 12V 100–200Ah.
• Full-time van/RV (fridge, work gear, occasional cooking): 2–4 kWh/day → 12V 300–400Ah or 24V 150–200Ah (if your model supports series).
• Small cabin (lighting, internet, fridge, well pump): 4–8 kWh/day → 24V system with 200–400Ah total (via series-wired compatible units and parallel as needed).

Compatibility Notes

• Series/parallel: Many models allow parallel expansion; some support series for higher voltage. Follow the model’s limits on max series/parallel count.
• Monitors: A shunt-based battery monitor gives accurate state of charge (SOC). Voltage-only readings are unreliable due to LiFePO4’s flat voltage curve.
• Inverter sizing: Choose continuous and surge ratings that cover your largest loads (e.g., induction cooktop or power tools). Size cables and fuses to the inverter’s DC current draw.

Care and Longevity

• Keep batteries within recommended temperature range; avoid chronic high temperatures.
• Occasionally charge to full to allow BMS cell balancing if recommended by your model.
• For storage over a month, leave at ~40–60% SOC and disconnect loads; store cool and dry.

FAQ

• Can I connect Dawnice batteries in series or parallel? Yes, if your specific model supports it. Use identical batteries, follow max string limits, and wire via busbars with equal-length leads.
• What charger settings should I use? Use a LiFePO4 profile. Typical 12V targets: 14.2–14.6V absorb, 13.4–13.6V float (or no float), short absorb time. Double voltages for 24V. Always confirm with your model’s manual.
• Is alternator charging safe? Yes—with a DC-DC charger sized to your bank (e.g., 20–60A common). Direct alternator connection can overheat the alternator or battery and is not recommended.
• How do I estimate runtime? Wh available ≈ Ah × 12.8V (for 12V packs). Example: 200Ah × 12.8V ≈ 2,560Wh usable. A 60W fridge averaging 50% duty uses ~720Wh/day, leaving ~1,840Wh for other loads.
• How long will they last? LiFePO4 batteries commonly deliver thousands of cycles when operated within spec. Avoid sustained high heat and below-freezing charging to maximize lifespan.

Bottom Line

Dawnice LiFePO4 batteries offer dependable, expandable storage for mobile and off-grid power. Size the bank to your daily Wh, charge with a LiFePO4 profile, and follow basic wiring and fusing practices for a safe, quiet system that protects your electronics and your time off-grid.