Redarc Bare Minimum Components (For Dummies)

[MarkusAurelius]

What bare minimum Redarc brand components do I need to get off the ground that will make the most sense for a scalable system?

Looking for help determining exactly what components I need to start a base/"bare minimum" system (that can be built upon) that will allow me to power my Dometic cfx3 75. I would like the system to power via my alternator and 1 redarc solar panel on my roof. Im looking for something quick and easy for now for my trip in October.

I am aware there are cheaper routes other than redarc. I don't want to have to buy twice. The end goal is to build a scalable system that will inevitably provide 3 days off grid of power for fridge, starlink, miscellaneous small electronic charges, small kitchen appliances, electic chainsaw charge (not all at the same time) while mixing in driving and solar during the day. 1 battery will most likely suffice. I dont draw alot of power but as of now my anker 1229wh/1800w power station will only give my around 24 hours for the fridge which isnt enough.

-Battery does not need to be used as a dual battery setup or a setup where it can be used to start the vehicle. I have other contingencies for vehicle startup.

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[teamblkdog]

This diagram is overkill for you but gives you a way forward. I've been running this setup for 3 years. Only difference now is I have a single 200W Renogy flat/flexible panel installed so that I can clear the garage, and I added a 1000W Redarc inverter that I never use. I have an ARB fridge that I keep plugged in 24/7. Most of my loads are LED lights or USB outlets.

Going with an all Redarc system will be $$$ pricey, but definitely get their DC to DC charger (BCDC1220 is fine). If you want to accurately monitor your system, get a shunt, Redarc or Victron. Solar panels are cheap these days, 200W works for me. 100Ah lithium is perfect, I have a Battleborn.

Don't forget appropriate fuses and fuse blocks, wires/connectors/heat shrink/zip ties, etc.

Note: Lithium doesn't charge in temps below 30F, so I remove my battery for the winter, as I'm not a winter camper.

 

[MarkusAurelius]

Outstanding thanks for the layout. Will a lithium charge in winter if it’s a battery integrated with heating like the redarc?

 

[PuddleJumper]

Outstanding thanks for the layout. Will a lithium charge in winter if it’s a battery integrated with heating like the redarc?

yes, many lithium batteries include a self heater. if temps drop below a certain point they will automatically use their own power to run a internal heating element.

 

[MarkusAurelius]

I need like an "Aux Batteries For Dummies" feed. Electrical is such a deep rabbit hole.

 

[teamblkdog]

Outstanding thanks for the layout. Will a lithium charge in winter if it’s a battery integrated with heating like the redarc?

I installed Battleborn's optional heating "blanket" but found it to be ineffective and honestly a big waste of money. I just remove the battery during winter and keep it charged. There are heated batteries available now, but I don't have experience with them.

 

[Steven_B]

Outstanding thanks for the layout. Will a lithium charge in winter if it’s a battery integrated with heating like the redarc?

The REDARC BCDC chargers also have a built-in sensor to prevent charging the lithium battery if it's too cold. There are ways of tricking the system in an emergency though.

Here's a REDARC Fridge Power kit, as simple as it gets with room to expand to solar in the future (like I did) - https://trailrecon.com/products/redarc-fridge-power-kit

 

[fourfa]

yes, many lithium batteries include a self heater. if temps drop below a certain point they will automatically use their own power to run a internal heating element.

Check carefully. Most that I’ve looked at will only activate the internal heater when being charged externally. I.E., they won’t use their own power. Would love to see one that does, and check its manual carefully for how it makes it work

 

[813 Fabrication & Design]

Redarc has a new "Off-grid Power Kit" that is what I would suggest. I have the full Redvision Manager 30 setup in my last camper. It was a bit of an overkill for my needs. I never plugged in to shore power, so I am installing this new, smaller kit. It is difficult to find on the website. Dealers (I am a dealer) don't even see it on their lists. Redarc just assembled a good kit of parts and made it a package. It is not a cheap package, but it is a good setup. You could get away with making your own wiring kit and save a little possibly.

https://www.redarcelectronics.com/us/off-grid-power-kit

 

[Blade1668]

I need like an "Aux Batteries For Dummies" feed. Electrical is such a deep rabbit hole.

Yes it can be a deep rabbit hole. I've got a similar setup to teamblkdog setup in my JT running about the same. Now doing the same in my Scamp T.T. but unmounted solar panels. Longer term plan is "home" solar system too. That one is to be my scalable system, as my use / needs are less than 400 kw a month most months 240 or less.
Now back on track, with 100amp LiPo battery 200w solar panels, I can run the fridge freezer, LED lights and few other things for typically 5 days without a problem in overcast rainy weather.
It's tied to the starter battery though the aux always hot wire too. But I've got a 85w system directly tied to it too. There are a few here that are SME with solar systems, I'm not but I think I have a fair grasp on it, running it since 2020. The cold weather is no joke on Lithium batteries shut down. I had that to happen for over a week, my battery is in the cab where the r.rear seat was.

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