Power Queen 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Battery Review Deep Cycle Performance Tested

Description

Ice Production Speed

Testing the Power Queen 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Battery Group 31 Lithium Deep Cycles Battery, built-in 100A BMS, has been an interesting experience, especially since it’s designed more as an energy storage solution rather than a quick starter. The 5-hour fast charging time impressed me right away; it’s about half the time compared to traditional lead-acid batteries. That means less downtime waiting for the battery to charge, which really suits my off-grid cabin lifestyle. I did try charging it at different amperages, and the 14.6V 20A charger seemed optimal for reaching full charge efficiently without overheating.

Ease of Use

The lightweight design of this lithium deep cycle battery is a game changer. Weighing only 24.25 pounds, it’s about half the weight of equivalent lead-acid batteries, making installation less of a wrestling match. I managed to set it up alone, which is a relief compared to the heavy lifting I’m used to with older batteries. The included terminal bolts and insulating caps were a nice touch, making the wiring straightforward and secure. The instruction manual was clear, but I did notice I needed to add gaskets when attaching certain terminals, as the manual warned to avoid loosening or overheating issues.

Features

Built-in 100A Battery Management System (BMS) is a standout feature for me. It safeguards against overcharge, over-discharge, over-current, and short circuits, which gives peace of mind especially when using the battery in remote solar setups. The ability to connect up to four batteries in series or parallel for increased voltage and capacity broadens the use cases, from marine to RV and off-grid power systems. The 15000+ deep cycles promise a long lifespan, making it an eco-friendly choice that’s also cost-effective over time.

Merits

• Half the weight of traditional lead-acid batteries while delivering twice the usable capacity
• Fast charging capability reduces wait time significantly
• Built-in 100A BMS enhances safety and battery longevity
• Supports expansion by connecting multiple batteries in series or parallel

Ice Quality & Type

The battery itself isn’t about making ice, but it powers systems that do, including my camper’s mini-fridge and ice maker. The consistent voltage output means those appliances run smoothly without hiccups, even during peak usage. My kids have noticed the fridge keeps things colder for longer on camping trips, which adds to the convenience. The stable power supply translates into better ice quality indirectly, as the appliances operate at optimal efficiency.

Noise Levels

This lithium deep cycle battery runs silently, which is a refreshing change from the buzzing and humming I associate with old lead-acid battery chargers and inverters. I placed it inside my RV battery compartment, and it was practically inaudible, which made night-time use peaceful. The lack of noise contributes to a more comfortable environment during extended off-grid stays, especially when compared to noisy generators.

Durability

Using the Power Queen 12V 100Ah Basic battery daily, I’ve found it to hold up well physically and electrically. The casing feels solid, and the terminals show no signs of corrosion or wear after months of use. The lithium-ion chemistry and Grade A cells combined with the BMS mean I’m confident the battery won’t degrade quickly. However, it’s important to note that this model is not recommended for starting engines or golf carts, as it’s designed for energy storage. I’ve stuck to that advice, and the battery remains in great shape.

Areas for Improvement

• The battery size matches BCI Group 31, which fits most battery boxes, but it’s a bit bulky for tight spaces
• Lack of Bluetooth connectivity in the “Basic” model means no real-time monitoring via smartphone, which some users might miss
• Charging instructions require some prior knowledge to avoid terminal overheating due to thickness issues
• Not suitable for engine start-up or golf carts, limiting versatility

Warranty

The product comes with a warranty that covers manufacturing defects, which is reassuring considering the investment. I haven’t had to deal with customer service myself, but reviews suggest the brand is responsive if issues arise. The warranty length wasn’t explicitly stated on the packaging I received, so I recommend checking before purchase. Given the expected 15000+ cycle lifespan, this warranty coverage feels like a solid backup.

Product Competitors

Comparing this battery with other popular lithium deep cycle batteries, such as the Battle Born LiFePO4 and Renogy 12V 100Ah models, offers some perspective. The Power Queen battery excels in fast charging and light weight, making it ideal for RV and marine use. Battle Born often gets praise for its Bluetooth monitoring and slightly longer warranty, which the Power Queen Basic lacks. Renogy’s battery tends to be more affordable but sometimes heavier and slower to charge. The built-in 100A BMS on the Power Queen also provides a strong safety advantage over some competitors which use external BMS systems.

Price Performance

For those seeking a balance between cost and features, this lithium deep cycle battery represents good value. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but its longevity and fast charging capability justify the investment for serious off-grid users. Compared to lead-acid batteries, it saves money in the long run due to higher efficiency and deeper usable capacity. If you prioritize lightweight design and safety features, this battery’s price-to-quality ratio is quite favorable. Budget-conscious buyers might find better deals on lower-capacity batteries, but those usually fall short on cycle life and charge speed.

Testing the Power Queen 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 Battery Group 31 Lithium Deep Cycles Battery, built-in 100A BMS, has given me a solid understanding of its capabilities and limitations. Its lightweight, fast charging, and safety features make it a valuable asset for off-grid solar setups, marine applications, and RVs. While it isn’t suitable for starting engines or golf carts and lacks Bluetooth monitoring in this basic model, the overall performance and durability have met my expectations and those of my family during our outdoor adventures.

Additional information