This review delves into the REDODO 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery, examining its performance, features, and overall value. We unpack the battery's arrival, physical build, and compatibility, highlighting its standard Group 24 size. A key focus is the integrated Bluetooth connectivity and accompanying app, which allows for real-time monitoring of vital battery parameters such as state of charge, voltage, and temperature. The app's functionality and user-friendliness are thoroughly assessed.Beyond the smart features, a comprehensive capacity test is conducted, revealing the battery's actual performance against its advertised 100Ah capacity. We analyze the impact of the always-on Bluetooth feature on capacity and offer recommendations for optimal usage. Finally, we discuss the battery's suitability for various applications, particularly as a reliable backup power source for solar generators, while emphasizing the importance of a proper solar charge controller for safe and effective charging.
Pros And Cons
- Smart battery with Bluetooth connectivity
- Provides app-based monitoring of battery status, diagnostics, and health
- Allows for turning on/off certain battery features via the app
- Displays remaining charge time during charging and remaining capacity during discharging
- Shows temperature, cycle time, and cycle life information
- Requires app account creation
- Bluetooth feature has parasitic drain, leading to capacity loss if left on during storage
- Capacity test results showed less than the expected 100 amp-hours due to the parasitic drain from the Bluetooth feature
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Unboxing and First Impressions
The REDODO 100Ah LiFePO4 battery arrived well-packaged. The box included the battery itself, a quick start guide, and the product manual. Initial inspection revealed a sturdy build and a clean finish.
The battery is a group 24 size, meaning its dimensions conform to a standard specification. This makes it compatible with a range of applications, but always consult the user manual before installation.
Bluetooth Smart Features and App Integration
The most compelling feature of the REDODO battery is its Bluetooth connectivity. A dedicated app allows for real-time monitoring of various parameters, such as state of charge (SOC), voltage, temperature, and cycle count.
The app provides valuable diagnostic information and allows for remote control of certain features. While the requirement to create an account is a minor inconvenience, the detailed information it provides outweighs this aspect.
The app's user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it simple to track the battery's health and performance.
Capacity Test and Results
I performed a capacity test using a CBA 5 battery analyzer. The test revealed approximately 95 amp-hours of capacity, slightly less than the advertised 100 amp-hours.
This discrepancy was attributed to parasitic drain from the continuously enabled Bluetooth feature. The battery's Bluetooth connectivity consumes a small amount of power, even when idle. It's crucial to disable Bluetooth when not in use to maximize battery life and accuracy during testing.
The slight reduction in capacity is not significant and does not detract greatly from the overall performance of the battery.
Integration with Solar Generator
The REDODO 100Ah battery is ideal for use as a backup power source for solar generators. It can significantly extend the runtime of your system during power outages.
The battery's compatibility with solar generators provides added flexibility for off-grid applications and emergency preparedness. This expands your power options.
Remember that you will need a solar charge controller to correctly manage the charging process when using the battery with a solar panel.
Conclusion
The REDODO 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 battery offers excellent performance, with a capacity very close to its advertised rating when properly managed. The built-in Bluetooth connectivity and accompanying app are a game-changer, providing valuable monitoring and diagnostic capabilities.
The app, while requiring an account creation, offers a wealth of information and control over the battery's features. Remember that continuous use of the Bluetooth function will result in a small but noticeable parasitic drain, affecting overall runtime.
Overall, this is a robust, versatile battery perfect for various applications, particularly as a backup power source for solar generators. Just remember to turn off Bluetooth when not actively monitoring the battery.