This review dives deep into the Ecoworthy 100Ah 48V rack battery, a budget-friendly lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) solution for solar energy storage. We explore its performance, features, and build quality to determine if it delivers on its promise of affordable, reliable energy storage. The battery boasts a claimed 5.1 kWh capacity and a high 100A charge/discharge rate, backed by comprehensive safety features including over/under voltage and temperature protection. We'll examine the battery's internal components, communication protocols, and ease of integration with various solar inverters.A key aspect of this review focuses on the battery's compatibility with different monitoring apps, including the manufacturer's app and the popular Overkill Solar app. We'll assess the user experience and functionality offered by each, evaluating their effectiveness in managing battery parameters and providing valuable insights into its performance. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a balanced perspective on the Ecoworthy 100Ah 48V rack battery, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses to help consumers make an informed decision about whether it’s the right solar storage solution for their needs.
Pros And Cons
- Lithium iron phosphate chemistry
- 48v battery (approximately 5.1 kWh storage)
- 100 amp charge and discharge capability
- Basic safety parameters (over/under voltage and temperature protection)
- Includes breaker
- Dry contacts
- RS485, CAN, and RS232 communication protocols
- Includes two 2-gauge cables and covers for terminals
- Sturdy handles
- Good packaging
- Six temperature sensors
- Relatively low price ($880 at time of review)
- 10-year warranty
- Terminals not as clean as some competitors
- Covers for terminals are 3D printed and not aesthetically matching
- Internal cabling (5-gauge positive) is smaller than the external cables (2-gauge)
- BMS requires both power switch and breaker to be on
- May have a balance issue (cell 1 dipped first during testing)
- Capacity test results were initially below advertised capacity but improved after cycling
- No pre-charge resistor (although it may be integrated into the BMS)
- No rapid shutdown capability
- No fire arresters
- May not be compatible with all inverters (e.g., EG4)
- Tech support primarily via email
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Battery Specifications and Safety Features
The Ecoworthy 100Ah 48V rack battery boasts a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry, offering approximately 5.1 kWh of energy storage.
It supports a 100A charge and discharge rate, ensuring efficient energy transfer.
Crucially, it incorporates essential safety features including over-voltage, under-voltage, over-temperature, and under-temperature protection.
BMS and App Compatibility
The battery utilizes a JBD BMS, evidenced by its Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility with the JBD-specific app.
While the manufacturer's app is available, the reviewer recommends using the Overkill Solar app for its ease of use and comprehensive parameter adjustment without additional payment.
The Overkill Solar app provides a simpler interface for monitoring and controlling battery parameters.
External Features and Build Quality
The battery features an integrated circuit breaker, a notable addition often missing in budget-friendly rack batteries.
It includes BMS power on/off switches and dry contacts, enhancing control and flexibility.
The terminals, while not aesthetically as polished as some competitors, are robust and accommodate larger gauge cables if needed, offering adaptability for various system configurations.
Internal Components and Cell Manufacturer
The internal design reveals a compact BMS mounted on its own plate, leaving ample space within the battery case.
The cells are securely compressed between two metal plates and bolted down, ensuring stability.
The reviewer identifies the cell manufacturer as 'RI', a less familiar name in the industry.
Communication and Performance Testing
The battery utilizes RS485, CAN, and RS232 communication protocols, facilitating integration with various systems.
It communicated seamlessly with a 12000XP inverter without any protocol adjustments.
Capacity tests yielded results slightly below the advertised 100Ah, potentially due to cell imbalance, but improved with further charging and discharging cycles.
Conclusion and Overall Assessment
The Ecoworthy 100Ah 48V battery offers impressive value for its price point, featuring a solid build quality, comprehensive safety features, and versatile communication capabilities.
While the capacity test results were initially slightly lower than advertised, this appears to be a minor cell imbalance issue that may resolve itself with further use.
This battery is a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers looking for a reliable and functional solar storage solution, but more expensive brands offer additional features like rapid shutdown.