Frequently Asked Questions

  • Chemistry

    Lithium-Ion (Li-ion, often LiCoO₂ or NMC/NCA variants)

    Uses lithium cobalt oxide, nickel manganese cobalt, or other metal oxides as the cathode.

    They are energy-dense but far more volatile and prone to the bad press regarding fires.

    Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄, or LFP)

    Uses lithium iron phosphate as the cathode.

    These are lower energy density but much more stable chemically.

    We install LiFePO₄ batteries with industry accepted Battery Management Systems.

  • No! This is a trap a lot of people fall into because “an amp is an amp, right?” Not quite. The amp rating stays the same as current, but the power changes because the voltage is different.

    Formula:

    Watts (W) = Volts (V) × Amps (A)

    12V System:

    12V × 5A = 60W

    240V System:

    240V × 5A = 1200W

    So 5A at 12V is only 60W, a small load. 5A at 240V is 20× more powerful, enough to run a small hair dryer.

  • Yes, tilting solar panels does make a difference, but exactly how much depends on your latitude, season, and goals.

    The Physics

    Solar panels work best when sunlight hits them perpendicularly (at a 90° angle).

    Flat panels get sunlight all day but less directly, especially in winter.

    Tilted panels can capture more energy during lower sun angles.

    Seasonal Effects

    In summer the sun is high in the sky → flat panels work almost as well.

    In winter the sun is low → tilting panels toward the sun dramatically improves output.

    That is why our “Auxillary Solar Input Connections” are so popular on motorhomes and camper vans.

  • An Auxiliary Solar Input Connection (sometimes called “Aux Solar” or “additional solar input”) is essentially a second solar input on a solar charge controller that allows you to connect portable solar panels, the kind sold with portable power banks such as EcoFlow, Jackery and Bluetti.

    These solar panels are portable and so are easily tilted to the sun for greater input into the main leisure system during the winter months when the flat fixed panels on the roof become a lot less efficient.

    We fit these to existing systems without breaking the bank. Generally the only thing that is needed is an additional MPPT (Solar Controller) that can handle the power from your portable solar panel. If you want this installed, get in contact, letting us know the size of your portable panel and we can quote you.

  • Ah, now we’re entering the “watts vs the mysterious KVA” zone. This trips up a lot of people when comparing inverters, especially between Victron and other brands.

    Watts vs KVA

    Watts (W) = real power, the actual energy the device can deliver to run appliances.

    KVA (kilovolt-amperes) = apparent power, a combination of real power and the power lost due to phase difference between voltage and current. This is called the power factor.

    In simple terms: Watts = KVA × Power Factor (PF)

    Power Factor

    Most household devices are not purely resistive; motors, fridges, pumps, and inverters draw a slightly out-of-sync current.

    Victron rates in KVA because the inverter can deliver that amount of apparent power regardless of the load’s power factor.

    Typical PF for AC loads: ~0.8

    Example: Victron 3 kVA inverter → real power:

    3 kVA × 0.8 = 2.4 kW (2400 Watts)

    Other manufacturers may just quote the real power in watts directly.

    Why Victron uses KVA

    KVA gives a more honest rating for devices with inductive loads like pumps, microwaves, or fridges.

    It avoids overloading the inverter when devices have a low power factor.

    Inside info: Rumour is Victron will soon be adopting the Watts method for ease of use.