Best RV Converter Replacements For Lithium RV Batteries

RV Converter Replacement for Lithium Batteries

More and more RVers are upgrading to lithium batteries, and it’s easy to understand why. They’re lightweight, reliable, safe, and durable.

The biggest hurdle for RVers is that lithium isn’t supported by converters found in most RVs out there.

The converter in your RV does two things, it charges the batteries and converts 120 volt power to 12 volt when you’re plugged into shore power. They keep the entire 12 volt system running and batteries charged.

While an old converter will do its best to charge a lithium battery, it’s recommended to upgrade to a new converter that supports lithium. That ensures the battery will be taken care of in the right way.

See Also: What Will Happen If I Charge a Lithium Battery with My RV?

Fortunately, companies and manufacturers are aware that customers are upgrading to lithium and have released products to support this.

In this article, I’ll go over the top choices among RVers. I’ll also explain what the amp rating means to help you decide on the size that’s right for you.

Hopefully this post will help make the switch from lead-acid to LiFePO4 RV batteries easy and safe.

Summary (Links to Amazon)

RV Converters

• Most Features – Powermax RV Converter PM4 55A
• Best Basic – Latch.it RV Power Converter
• Most Size Options – RecPro RV Smart Converter

Inverter Charger Combos

• Most Advanced (Bluetooth) – Victron Energy MultiPlus Inverter Charger
• Good RV Option – Go Power! Inverter Charger
• Most Compact – Expert Power Inverter Charger

Best Lithium Compatible RV Converters

Powermax RV Converter PM4 55A

Check Price at Amazon

Main Features

• Available in Multiple Capacities – Options for different amp outputs (35A, 45A, 55A, 60A, 75A, and 100A) for different power needs.
• 4-Stage Smart Charging – Includes Bulk, Absorption, Float, and Equalization stages for optimal battery charging.
• All Battery Compatible – Designed specifically for use with lead-acid and LiFePO4 batteries.
• Reverse Polarity Protection – Safeguards the converter and connected batteries from damage due to incorrect wiring.
• Overload & Thermal Protection – Protects battery and components from overcharging and charging in unsafe high temperatures.
• Automatic Voltage Regulation – Maintains consistent voltage output to protect batteries and connected devices.
• Built-in Cooling Fan – Ensures the converter remains cool and functions efficiently even during heavy use.
• Compact Design – Space-saving form for easy RV installations.
• LED Indicators – Provides visual status updates for charging stages.
• High Efficiency – Converts AC to DC with minimal energy loss, optimizing power use.
• Multiple Output Configurations – Capable of charging multiple battery banks or providing power to multiple RV circuits.

Buy This If You

• Use Lithium Batteries – Perfect for those who have transitioned to lithium (LiFePO4) batteries in their RV.
• Need a Reliable Charging System – Ideal if you need a dependable converter that can handle the demands of modern RV systems.
• Value Safety Features – If reverse polarity protection and automatic voltage regulation are important to you.
• Want to Maximize Battery Life – The 4-stage charging process is designed to extend battery life.
• Have Limited Installation Space – Compact design makes it suitable for RVs with tight spaces.

Don’t Buy This If You

• Use Only Lead-Acid Batteries – Not necessary if you exclusively use lead-acid batteries and don’t plan to switch to lithium.
• Have a Smaller RV Setup – This converter might be overkill if you don’t require such a high amp output.
• Prefer Fanless Units – The built-in cooling fan could be a downside if you want a completely silent converter, but most converters of this size must have fans to stay safe operating temperatures.
• Want Bluetooth features and a smartphone app for remote monitoring.

My Thoughts

Powermax lithium battery compatible RV converters are a great choice for any RVer.

They are compatible with every battery type, have the necessary safety features, offer multiple power sizes, and have a 2 year limited warranty.

The feature that sets the Powermax apart from other options is the ability to wire multiple converters together in parallel or series to boost the voltage or currant.

This is something that could be very useful for home use and large solar banks, but it will rarely be necessary for RV use.

It’s also the same size as most RV converters, which means you can easily put it in the place of the old one.

Latch.it RV Power Converter

Check Price at Amazon

Main Features

• 55A & 100A Output Options – Offers 55A option that’s the standard power output ideal for most RV setups. 100A option for high power needs, large battery banks and fast charging lithium batteries.
• All Battery Compatible – Designed specifically for use with lead-acid and LiFePO4 batteries.
• 3-Stage Charging Process: Includes Bulk, Absorption, and Float stages to maximize battery performance.
• Reverse Polarity Protection – Protects the system from damage if wires are connected incorrectly.
• Overload & Thermal Protection – Protects battery and components from overcharging and charging in unsafe high temperatures.
• Automatic Voltage Regulation – Maintains consistent voltage output to protect batteries and connected devices.
• Built-in Cooling Fan – Keeps the converter cool during heavy use, ensuring longevity.
• LED Display Panel – Gives real-time information on charging status and power output.
• Short Circuit Protection: Ensures safety by preventing damage from electrical shorts.
• Thermally Controlled Fan: The fan operates only when necessary, reducing noise and conserving energy.

Buy This If You

• Want Good Amp Output: Ideal size for most RV 12 volt requirements and fast battery charging.
• Use Lithium Batteries: Perfect for RVers who have switched to lithium battery technology.
• Like Enhanced Safety Features – Overload and short circuit protection are crucial for you.
• Need Reliable Power Source – If consistent, dependable power is a top priority for your RV lifestyle.

Don’t Buy This If You

• Have a Smaller RV Setup – This converter might be overkill if you don’t require such a high amp output.
• Use Only Lead-Acid Batteries – Not necessary if you exclusively use lead-acid batteries and don’t plan to switch to lithium.
• Are Looking for a Quiet Converter: Despite the thermally controlled fan, it still make some noise that could be bothersome.
• Want Bluetooth features and a smartphone app for remote monitoring.

My Thoughts

When looking at RV converters that are lithium battery compatible, you’ll find that many features are the same.

Things like built in battery and electrical system protection and the ability to charge either lithium or lead acid batteries are the sign of a quality RV converter.

Latch.it has done a good job with its lithium battery compatible RV converter. It’s easy to install, has a durable housing, and a limited 2 year warranty.

The only thing I could say that sets this apart from the other RV converters in this review is the fan is pretty noisy and they only have two size options (55 & 100 amps).

RecPro RV Smart Converter

Check Price at Amazon

Main Features

• Available in Multiple Capacities – Options for different amp outputs (35A, 45A, 55A, 60A, 75A, 85A, 100A and 125A) for low to very high power output needs.
• Lithium Battery Compatibility – Designed to work efficiently with LiFePO4 batteries.
• 4-Stage Charging Process: Includes Bulk, Absorption, Float, and Equalization stages for comprehensive battery management.
• Built-in Cooling System – Keeps the converter cool during operation, extending its lifespan.
• Automatic Overload Protection – Shuts down the system in case of overload to prevent damage.
• Short Circuit Protection – Ensures safe operation by preventing damage in the event of a short circuit.
• Reverse Polarity Protection – Protects both the converter and batteries from incorrect wiring.
• LED Status Indicators – Provides clear visual feedback on the converter’s operating status.
• Compact and Lightweight Design – Easy to install in various RV setups without taking up much space.

Buy This If You

• Need Flexible Capacity Options – Ideal if you want to choose the appropriate amp output based on your specific RV and other power needs.
• Use Lithium Batteries – Perfect for RV owners who have upgraded to lithium-ion batteries.
• Like Advanced Charging – The 4-stage charging process is essential for maximizing battery life and performance.
• Require Safety Features – Overload, short circuit, and reverse polarity protection are key considerations for you.
• Need A 125A Converter – RecPro is one of the few companies that offers a 125A 12V lithium compatible converter.

Don’t Buy This If You

• Only Use Lead-Acid Batteries – This converter might be unnecessary if you’re sticking with traditional lead-acid batteries.
• Don’t Need Advanced Features – If you’re looking for a basic converter without extra features, this model may be more than you need.
• Want Bluetooth features and a smartphone app for remote monitoring.

My Thoughts

RecPro RV converters are another great choice if you’re looking for a way to charge lithium or lead acid batteries in your camper.

There are lots of size options available and it should fit in place of most standard RV converters.

See Also: 5 Best 12 Volt Lithium RV Batteries Reviewed + How To Charge

Victron Energy Multiplus Inverter Charger

Check Price at Amazon

Main Features

• 3000 Watt Pure Sine Wave Inverter – Provides high-quality AC power suitable for sensitive electronics and appliances.
• 120 Amp Charger – Includes a powerful built-in battery charger compatible with multiple battery types, including lithium.
• Adaptive Charging Technology – Adjusts the charging process based on the battery’s needs to ensure optimal charging and longevity.
• PowerAssist Technology – Prevents overload of a limited AC source by adding extra power from the batteries when needed.
• Parallel Operation Capable – Can be set up in parallel to increase the overall power output.
• Remote Monitoring and Control – Supports Victron’s remote management systems, allowing monitoring and control over the internet.
• Automatic Transfer Switch – Seamlessly switches between shore power, generator, and battery inverter power as needed.
• Programmable Relay – Provides a relay that can be programmed for different functions, such as an alarm or control function.
• Bluetooth – Allows easy setup, monitoring, and configuration via a smartphone or tablet.

Buy This If You

• Need Both an Inverter and Charger – Ideal if you want a single, integrated device to handle both tasks efficiently.
• Have High Power Requirements – Suitable for RVs or setups that require a robust 3000VA inverter and a powerful charger.
• Use Lithium Batteries – Perfect for lithium battery users due to its adaptive charging and high charging current.
• Want Remote Control and Monitoring – A good choice if you value being able to monitor and control your power system remotely.
• Want a Serious Upgrade – Many RVers will replace the RV converter with one that’s lithium compatible, but with a inverter charger, you can replace the converter and add an inverter at the same time.

Don’t Buy This If You

• Don’t Require Inverter Capabilities – Unnecessary if you only need a converter or basic battery charger.
• Are on a Tight Budget – This is a premium product, not ideal if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
• Have Minimal Power Needs – Overkill for smaller RV setups or if you do not require such high power output.
• Prefer a Basic Setup – Not the best choice if you don’t need advanced features like remote monitoring or programmable settings.
• Never Boondock – If you mostly camp in RV parks and campgrounds with electrical hookups, an inverter is unnecessary.
• Want Easy Installation – Unlike a standard RV converter installation, inverter chargers require more space and more wiring.

My Thoughts

If you’re not afraid of running wires, installing a inverter charger combo is a fantastic upgrade for any RV.

You’re replacing the RV converter completely, adding a lithium compatible charger, 12V converter, and inverter all combined into one unit.

The main downside to replacing an RV converter with the Victron Multiplus is with wiring and finding somewhere to mount the unit.

Many RVers will mount the Victron inside an outer storage compartment to keep it hidden and protected, but this means they also need to add longer wires to reach the batteries and fuse panel.

It’s more of a hassle than swapping out RV converters, but if you camp without power hookups, it will make getting 120 volt power super easy.

See Also: How To Wire Multiple 12V Or 6V Batteries To An RV

Go Power! Inverter Charger

Check Price at Amazon

Main Features

• 2000-Watt Pure Sine Wave Inverter – Provides clean, reliable AC power suitable for all types of appliances, including sensitive electronics.
• 100 Amp Battery Charger – Built-in charger supports multiple battery types, including lithium-ion, and provides efficient charging.
• Dual Functionality – Combines both an inverter and a charger in one unit, reducing the need for separate devices.
• Power Sharing Feature – Automatically reduces the charging rate when the load is high to prevent tripping breakers.
• Automatic Transfer Switch – Seamlessly switches between shore power, generator, and inverter power.
• Battery Temperature Sensor – Ensures safe charging by adjusting the charging process based on the battery’s temperature.
• Control Panel Included – Comes with a remote control for convenient monitoring and adjustments from inside the RV.
• LED Status Indicators – Displays important information about power status, battery levels, and fault conditions.
• Parallel Operation Capability – Can be configured in parallel with other units for increased power output.
• Durable Construction – Designed to withstand harsh environments and the vibrations of RV travel.

Buy This If You

• Need Both an Inverter and Charger – Ideal for users who want a single, integrated unit for both inverting and charging.
• Use Lithium or Multiple Battery Types – Suitable for those with various battery types, including LiFePO4, due to its flexible charging options.
• Require a Reliable Power Source – Perfect if you need consistent power management and robust performance.
• Value Power Management Features – A great choice if you want features like power sharing and an automatic transfer switch.
• Like Control Panels  – Ideal for those who want the convenience of a control panel for easy access and monitoring.

Don’t Buy This If You

• Have Minimal Power Needs – This product might be overkill if your RV setup doesn’t require 2000 watts of inverter power or a 100 amp charger.
• Are Looking for a Basic Converter – Not necessary if you only need a basic converter or battery charger without inverter functionality.
• Prefer a Budget-Friendly Option – It’s a premium unit that might not fit well if you’re on a tight budget.
• Never Boondock – If you mostly camp in RV parks and campgrounds with electrical hookups, an inverter is unnecessary.
• Want Easy Installation – Unlike a standard RV converter installation, inverter chargers require more space and more wiring.
• Want Bluetooth features and a smartphone app for remote monitoring.

My Thoughts

The Go Power! inverter charger is another great option if you’re looking to upgrade your RV converter to a lithium compatible one and add an inverter at the same time.

The GP-IC2000-12-PKG model is small compared to other inverter charger options, which means it’s a little easier to find a spot for.

It will still require more complex wiring than a direct RV converter replacement, but you’ll be able to get 120 volt power when boondocking.

See Also: What Kind of Solar Panel Should I Buy?

ExpertPower Inverter Charger

Check Price at Amazon

Main Features

• 2000-Watt Pure Sine Wave Inverter – Provides clean and stable AC power suitable for all types of appliances and sensitive electronics.
• 6000-Watt Surge Capacity – Offers a high surge capacity to handle startup currents of heavy-duty appliances.
• 40 Amp Battery Charger – Built-in multi-stage charger designed to work with various battery types, including lithium-ion.
• Automatic Transfer Switch – Automatically switches between shore power, generator power, and inverter power for seamless operation.
• LCD Display Panel – Provides real-time data on battery voltage, output power, and system status.
• Power Saving Mode – Reduces energy consumption by shutting down when no load is detected, extending battery life.
• Display Screen Control – Allows for remote monitoring and operation, offering flexibility in managing the power system.
• Thermal Protection – Protects the unit from overheating, ensuring safety and durability.
• Overload and Short Circuit Protection – Built-in safety features prevent damage from electrical faults.

Buy This If You

• Need a High Surge Capacity – Ideal for those who need a power solution that can handle the startup surges of larger appliances.
• Require a Combined Inverter and Charger – Perfect for RVers looking for a single device that can both invert power and charge batteries.
• Use Lithium or Multiple Battery Types – Great for users with LiFePO4 batteries or who need flexibility with different battery chemistries.
• External Display Monitoring – Excellent choice if you prefer having the ability to monitor and control your power system via an interior mounted display.
• Need Energy Efficiency – The power-saving mode makes it a good choice if you’re focused on conserving battery power.
• Are On a Budget – Inverter chargers aren’t as budget friendly as lithium compatible RV converters, but when compared to other options, the Expert Power Inverter Charger is a budget-friendly option.

Don’t Buy This If You

• Have Minimal Power Needs – Overkill for smaller setups or if you don’t require the 2000W continuous and 6000W surge capacity.
• Are Looking for a Basic Converter – Not suitable if you only need a basic converter without inverter capabilities.
• Prefer a Silent Operation – The fan noise from thermal protection could be a downside if you are sensitive to noise.
• Want Bluetooth features and a smartphone app for remote monitoring.

My Thoughts

We’ve seen the big names in the world of RV inverter chargers, now lets look at some of the more mid range options like this inverter charger by Expert Power.

You still get everything you’ll need for a solid set up. For instance you still get a pure sine wave inverter, remote monitoring system, and a 40 amp charger.

There have been reports of loud fan noises and there’s not as many safety features as some of the premium options. But for a standard RV setup, the ExperPower is a great option.

See Also: Best Portable Power Station/Solar Generator For Camping

What RV Converter Amperage Do I Need?

Choosing the correct amperage for a new RV converter will ensure efficient battery charging and reliable power supply to your RV’s electrical systems.

The right amperage will depend on several factors related to your RV’s power needs, battery type, and usage.

The simplest way to choose is to get the same amperage as the original RV converter, but if you’ve upgraded to lithium batteries, getting something more powerful for fast charging might be better.

Here are a few ways you can calculate the necessary amperage for a new RV converter.

Calculate RV Power Needs

Make a list of all the 12 volt electrical appliances and devices in your RV. Calculate their combined wattage and determine how much power they require.

This includes lights, ceiling fans, furnace fan, propane detector, water pump, and the entertainment system if it’s 12 volt.

You could also include the slide out and electric jacks in this, but odds are you won’t have anything else on in the RV when you’re using them, so it’s not as necessary to add them to the basic amp usage list.

See Also: What Will The RV Battery Run?

To determine the total amp draw, divide the total wattage of the devices by the voltage (12V). That number should be the total amp draw in your RV when everything’s turned on.

Of course, not everything will always be turned on at the same time, but it’s good to make sure you’re getting a large enough RV converter to cover everything.

I made a quick calculation of the power draw the 12 volt appliances could be pulling at a time. It came out to be around 310 watts. Divide that by 12 and you get almost 26 amps.

That means even the smaller RV converters available have more than enough power for my travel trailer.

Consider Your Battery Bank Size

If you have a large battery bank (multiple batteries connected in parallel), you will need a converter with a higher amperage to charge them efficiently.

The larger the capacity of your battery bank, the higher the amperage required to charge them in a reasonable amount of time.

Different types of batteries (lead-acid, AGM, lithium) have different charging requirements. Lithium batteries, for instance, can handle faster charging and higher amperage, while lead-acid batteries require slower charging to avoid damage.

Match the Converter Amperage to Your Battery Bank

A common guideline for selecting the right amperage for a converter is to choose one that provides about 20-25% of your battery bank’s total capacity.

For example, if you have a 200Ah battery bank, a converter with an output of 40-50 amps would be appropriate.

Choosing a converter with too high an amperage for your battery bank can lead to overheating and reduce the lifespan of the batteries.

An under powered converter will take much longer to charge the batteries fully.

The RV converters and chargers in this review have safety features that should stop any overcharging, but undercharging is still a risk if you go too small.

Factor in Future Expansion

If you plan to upgrade your RV’s electrical system, add more batteries, or install more power-hungry appliances in the future, consider a converter with a slightly higher amperage.

This future-proofs your setup and ensures you won’t need to replace the converter later on.

See Also: Goldenmate 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery Test & Review

Differences Between an RV Converter and an RV Inverter Chargers

When considering upgrading an RV converter for lithium batteries, you have two choices: RV Converters or RV Inverter Charger Combos.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between them.

RV Converter vs Inverter Charger

• RV Converter – Converts 120V AC (Alternating Current) power from shore power or a generator into 12V DC (Direct Current) power to charge the RV’s battery bank and power 12V DC appliances and systems.
  • Includes multi-stage charging (to prevent overcharging batteries), short circuit protection, overload protection, and sometimes, reverse polarity protection.
• RV Inverter Charger – Combines the functions of an inverter and a converter/charger into a single unit. Converts 12V DC power from the batteries to 120V AC power to run standard household appliances and also converts 120V AC power from shore power or a generator to 12V DC to charge the batteries.
  • Ideal for RVers who spend significant time off-grid (boondocking) and need to run AC appliances like microwaves, TVs, and air conditioners without a generator. It provides flexibility to use both AC and DC power efficiently.
  • Includes an automatic transfer switch (to switch between shore power and battery power), smart multi-stage charging, pure sine wave or modified sine wave output (for sensitive electronics), and protection features like overload, overheat, and short circuit protection.

Installation

• RV Converter – Simpler installation that’s more straightforward to install as it only involves connecting to the 120V AC power input and the 12V DC output to the batteries and DC appliances. You can usually just remove the old RV converter and install the new one in its place.
• RV Inverter Charger – Installation is more complicated. It involves connecting both AC and DC circuits, installing an automatic transfer switch, and sometimes rewiring parts of the RV’s electrical system.
  • They’re larger than standard RV converters, which means you’ll need to find a different place to mount it, then run wires from the RV power center and batteries to the inverter charger.

Power Source Flexibility

• RV Converter – Must have an external AC power source (shore power or generator) to function and charge batteries. Cannot provide AC power for household appliances from the battery.
• RV Inverter Charger – Can draw from either AC (shore power/generator) or DC (battery bank) sources. Allows the use of standard 120V appliances and devices when not connected to shore power or a generator, running off the battery bank.

Choosing between an RV Converter and an RV Inverter Charger Combo depends on your RVing style and power needs:

RV converters are best suited for RVers who stay mostly at campgrounds with shore power or rely on generators. It’s a simpler and cost-effective solution for maintaining batteries and powering 12V systems.

RV inverter chargers are ideal for those who spend a lot of time off-grid and need to run both DC and AC appliances. It offers greater flexibility, convenience, and the ability to go longer without relying on external power sources. Especially if you’re using solar panels to charge the batteries.

To Wrap it Up

Choosing the right power management system for your RV is essential for a smooth and comfortable camping experience.

Whether you opt for a dedicated RV Converter or an RV Inverter Charger depends largely on your camping style, power needs, and budget.

RV converters are ideal for RVers who primarily use shore power or generators and want a reliable, straightforward solution for charging batteries and running 12V appliances.

On the other hand, inverter charger combos offer enhanced flexibility by allowing you to use both AC and DC power, making them perfect for off-grid enthusiasts who want to power household appliances without relying on shore power or generators.

See Also: How To Install Solar Panel On RV Roof & Connect To Battery

Understanding your RV’s electrical demands, battery type, and future plans for upgrades will help you make an informed decision.

Make sure to consider all factors, from amperage requirements to the type of batteries you use to installation.

RV converters are fairly easy to install when compared to RV inverter chargers, which require a lot more experience with wiring.

No matter what you choose, it’s a good idea to get a lithium compatible RV charger when switching to LiFePO4 RV batteries.

Have questions? Leave a comment below.