Hi guys; Some sparky may be able to shred a bit of light on the subject.
What are the requirements for mounting batteries inside of your caravan. As far as i can find out, the batteries can be mounted in a non habital space, this i would read as under the bed or couch or cuboard or outside mounted to the chassie of the caravan and inclosed into a vented inclosure ?? My problem is that while i have 2 x 220 Ah AGM batteries under my bed, these i would think now haveing reach the end of life use and i have ordered one 300 Ah lifepo4 Lithium battery in the same spot as the old AGM batteries. But what about the " vented " inclosure, and if the same rules would apply to a caravan that is now over 12 years old. A 300 Ah lithium battery is a little on the large size and i'm unable to find a inclosure that would house the new battery.
msg said
04:51 PM Jun 10, 2024
I just watched a video on UTube about this. Bloke said he was a experienced qualified elecctrician (?You can't belive everything you hear and see though) But what he said made sense.
Make of it what you will. This is not a recommendation and I have no connection to the author.
Dick0 said
05:26 PM Jun 10, 2024
Hi Stephen, I am not a Sparky.
My three 135AH LiFePO4 batteries are situated in the bed cavity which is not vented. Been like that for four years. Not aware that Lithium batteries require venting, as wet cell batteries.
Interesting to see the more recent regulations in the YouTube video as posted by msg.
I have a skylight vent above the bed so any mishap may eject me through the ceiling.
The following requirements apply to all types of lead-acid batteries and apply in addition to the general requirements above.
The location of the battery must allow for easy access for maintenance or removal.
A spill tray must be installed under the battery(ies) that can hold a minimum 20% of the electrolyte held by the battery(ies)
1. External locations
External locations are defined as being open to the environment or outside the enclosed, habitable area of the recreational vehicle.
Batteries located externally must be either in a ventilated battery compartment or on a spill tray and open to the environment.
The location must provide sufficient mechanical/structural protection against damage from rocks and debris during recreational vehicle travel.
If located in a battery compartment, ventilation must be provided that prevents any vented gases entering the habitable area of the recreational vehicle.
2. Internal locations
A battery located internally in the recreational vehicle must be located in a battery compartment that is vented to the outside of the vehicle. Any opening into the interior (habitable area) must be provided with an air seal.
The battery compartment must be ventilated by one of the following methods:
Installing a battery that incorporates an external ventilation kit that opens to the exterior of the vehicle and ensuring that it is installed in line with the battery manufacturer's instructions.
Providing tube ventilation above the battery and a lower vent opening in the compartment
Providing upper and lower vent openings within 50mm of the top/bottom of the compartment, eg vents in the compartment door.
For full details refer clause 5.4.11.4 and Figures 5.3-5.5.
Battery ventilation openings have a minimum vent area requirement, which is calculated based on the ratings of the battery. The calculation formula and an example can be found in clause 5.4.11.5.
Are We Lost said
06:16 PM Jun 10, 2024
msg wrote:
I just watched a video on UTube about this. .......what he said made sense.
To save people from having to watch through 25 minutes of video, what is the opinion in regards to the OP's question?
The following requirements apply to all types of lead-acid batteries and apply in addition to the general requirements above.
The location of the battery must allow for easy access for maintenance or removal.
A spill tray must be installed under the battery(ies) that can hold a minimum 20% of the electrolyte held by the battery(ies)
1. External locations
External locations are defined as being open to the environment or outside the enclosed, habitable area of the recreational vehicle.
Batteries located externally must be either in a ventilated battery compartment or on a spill tray and open to the environment.
The location must provide sufficient mechanical/structural protection against damage from rocks and debris during recreational vehicle travel.
If located in a battery compartment, ventilation must be provided that prevents any vented gases entering the habitable area of the recreational vehicle.
2. Internal locations
A battery located internally in the recreational vehicle must be located in a battery compartment that is vented to the outside of the vehicle. Any opening into the interior (habitable area) must be provided with an air seal.
The battery compartment must be ventilated by one of the following methods:
Installing a battery that incorporates an external ventilation kit that opens to the exterior of the vehicle and ensuring that it is installed in line with the battery manufacturer's instructions.
Providing tube ventilation above the battery and a lower vent opening in the compartment
Providing upper and lower vent openings within 50mm of the top/bottom of the compartment, eg vents in the compartment door.
For full details refer clause 5.4.11.4 and Figures 5.3-5.5.
Battery ventilation openings have a minimum vent area requirement, which is calculated based on the ratings of the battery. The calculation formula and an example can be found in clause 5.4.11.5.
What about LiFePO4 batteries?
Peter_n_Margaret said
07:08 PM Jun 10, 2024
Dick0 wrote:
What about LiFePO4 batteries?
Same requirements.
Cheers,
Peter
Whenarewethere said
08:15 AM Jun 11, 2024
The above pdf link opens on my phone if I press & hold on it, then you have the full pdf. Even using Kiwi Browser (less ads).
Lithium-Ion Batteries
The following requirements apply to all types of lithium-ion batteries and apply in addition to the general requirements above.
Batteries must be located externally - ie behind a wall, compartment or barrier that prevents any vented gases entering the habitable area of the recreational vehicle.
The installer is required to consult with the battery manufacturer and supplier to confirm a compartment and venting design that is appropriate for the type of battery.
The location must be appropriate to ensure that the battery operates within the manufacturer's defined operating temperatures and IP rating.
If the battery manufacturer has not provided encapsulated cells, the battery must be installed in a suitable container.
Lithium-ion batteries must comply with AS IEC 62619.
Note: this standard is available through Caravan Industry Association of Australia and the i2i platform. See access details at the end of this bulletin.
Battery Management Safety System
Each lithium-ion battery must be provided with a battery management safety system, either integrated into the battery pack or as a separate component.
Located within or adjacent to the battery - no greater than 600mm from the battery Continuously monitor and protect against O Over and under voltage
Over and under temperature
Over current
Must be supplied by the same manufacturer as the battery cells or be in line with their recommendations.
Battery Monitoring Device
Each lithium-ion battery (or bank of batteries) must be monitored by a suitable battery monitor - designed for monitoring lithium ion batteries.
The monitor must display the state of charge and may display battery voltage.
Communications between the battery management safety system and the battery monitor/display may be either a wired or wireless connection.
Dick0 said
10:07 AM Jun 11, 2024
Whenarewethere wrote:
The above pdf link opens on my phone if I press & hold on it, then you have the full pdf. Even using Kiwi Browser (less ads).
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Does this also refer to LiFePO4 batteries or only Lithium-Ion?
Peter_n_Margaret said
10:46 AM Jun 11, 2024
LiFePO4 is one of the Lithium Ion chemistries.
Cheers,
Peter
Are We Lost said
12:18 PM Jun 11, 2024
Following Peter's comment I think the terminology could do with bit of clarification.
While technically correct that the term Lithium-ion covers LiFePO4, as battery technology evolves, Lithium-ion is becoming less commonly used for LiFePO4 batteries.
The LiFePO4 refers to the chemistry ..... Lithium, Iron and Phosphate. Whereas Lithium-ion now generally refers to the non phosphate chemistries. Lithium-ion is more energy dense than Lithium Phosphate, but does have a greater thermal runaway risk. There are many articles pointing to the distinction. Here are a couple:
-- Edited by Are We Lost on Tuesday 11th of June 2024 12:22:15 PM
msg said
01:08 PM Jun 11, 2024
I suggest you acquire the new regulations that the guy on UTube was discussing to verify what he is saying and his interpretation for those arguing technical points on names etc. Take time out, listen to him and you will have your answers. These are new revised regulations that apply to 12v systems FYI. Keeping it simple. LifeP04 are unlikely to explode in flames like the Lithium ion ones therefore are a lot safer in caravans. Unlikely being the operative word, no guarantees.
Whenarewethere, this guy is referring to AS3001.2.2022. That came into force 18/11/2023. If it makes any difference.
-- Edited by msg on Tuesday 11th of June 2024 01:21:16 PM
Corndoggy said
09:28 PM Jun 11, 2024
And I found it interesting that he states it is only relavent if your camper/caravan has a 15amp socket for the connection of 240vac.
msg said
11:19 PM Jun 11, 2024
I took that to mean that these regs apply to all electrical installations 12v & 240v. I don't know. I'm not an electrician.
Brenda and Alan said
10:08 AM Jun 12, 2024
The new regs are for NEW installations and are not retrospective.
Replacing a defunct battery would not be caught up in the new requirements.
Alan
Whenarewethere said
01:30 PM Jun 12, 2024
Nevertheless, also good if feasible to incorporate what you can of the latest regulations.
Dick0 said
08:32 PM Jun 12, 2024
Brenda and Alan wrote:
The new regs are for NEW installations and are not retrospective.
Replacing a defunct battery would not be caught up in the new requirements.
Alan
Yes, I thought this to be the case.
msg said
09:28 PM Jun 12, 2024
msg wrote:
Whenarewethere, this guy is referring to AS3001.2.2022. That came into force 18/11/2023. If it makes any difference.
-- Edited by msg on Tuesday 11th of June 2024 01:21:16 PM
You lot will argue over nothing.
If you were to watch the clip, he said that it was effective for new builds from 18/11/22. given twelve months to rectify and came into force 18/11/23. So refers to builds after 18/11/22. By now there could be quite a few. Anyway, for me it doesn't hurt to comply with the latest standards just for our own safety. Particularly, when the subject could be volatile and dangerous.
TimTim said
09:37 PM Jun 14, 2024
valiant81 wrote:
Hi guys; Some sparky may be able to shred a bit of light on the subject.
What are the requirements for mounting batteries inside of your caravan. As far as i can find out, the batteries can be mounted in a non habital space, this i would read as under the bed or couch or cuboard or outside mounted to the chassie of the caravan and inclosed into a vented inclosure ?? My problem is that while i have 2 x 220 Ah AGM batteries under my bed, these i would think now haveing reach the end of life use and i have ordered one 300 Ah lifepo4 Lithium battery in the same spot as the old AGM batteries. But what about the " vented " inclosure, and if the same rules would apply to a caravan that is now over 12 years old. A 300 Ah lithium battery is a little on the large size and i'm unable to find a inclosure that would house the new battery.
Hi Valiant81,
I will put my head on the chopping block once again.
Firstly, there is no legislation preventing you from undertaking your own battery change over.
There is no Federal or State legislation in the respective legislative databases that requires you to comply with AS/NZ 3001.2:2002 In undertaking the battery change over.
There is no Federal or State Authority to administer the non existent legislation and,
there are no penalties that can be imposed on you under the non existent legislation for not installing your batteries to AS/NZ 3001.2:2002.
In other words it is entirely your choice whether you install your new battery to the latest standard or not.
You may wish to take a read of your insurance PDS just to be sure that there is nothing written in that but it would surprise me if there was. Our golf club has been told that under the next policy golf carts with LiFePO4 batteries will not be able to be parked under the building.
As for safety, LiFePO4 are considered safer than AGM.
By the way, under the bed is considered a habitable space, that is where the monsters live.
BaldEd said
08:44 AM Jun 15, 2024
TimTim wrote:By the way, under the bed is considered a habitable space, that is where the monsters live.
Stevejaz said
03:25 PM Dec 13, 2025
Old topic I know but I have not travelled for a couple of years. Upgrading to Lithium and I think I understand the requirements and appropriate wire sizes but can I custom build a sealed vented to exterior battery box out of wood? Ply? and is it worth lining it with anything?
I would consider using foam blocks as spacers. Some sort of Bunnings type PVC pipe fittings for ventilation.
Battery location is under seating. I want to build box for batteries only with all other components pretty much as they are already. Fusing, bus bars, solar regulator, Mains charger etc etc.
PeterInSa said
07:51 PM Dec 20, 2025
Steve if the lithium battery is to be located under bed, I suggest a cutout on the side wall of the caravan and using a tin box mounted on its side with the lid acting as the door, similar to below. An air vent in the lid/door and lockable, The box below can take a 200 amp 12v Lithium from my search.
To me. the tin box rather than Wood, Fibreglass and AL will minimise the risk/impact of a fire. But do your own research.
Of course you could make the box and buy a door which are readily available for Gas Boxes.
The new regs are for NEW installations and are not retrospective.
Replacing a defunct battery would not be caught up in the new requirements.
Alan
But changing battery types would, or any other "modification".
Cheers,
Peter
Corndoggy said
10:51 AM Dec 21, 2025
Brenda and Alan wrote:
The new regs are for NEW installations and are not retrospective.
Replacing a defunct battery would not be caught up in the new requirements.
Alan
So how does this go?
I replace my old batteries with new ones. Does it matter I go from AGM to Lithium iron phosphate?
A few months later I change my DC-DC charger as it doesn't charge my batteries well.
A few months later I change the battery monitor shunt as the old one is not compatible with the recently replaced batteries.
I have not done a new installation, I have just changed existing parts the don't work properly.
And if it has to comply what about if I have to change a fuse, that is just changing something that doesn't work. Where do you draw the line?
Peter_n_Margaret said
01:39 PM Dec 21, 2025
Pretty obvious to most people.
Changing a fuse or one DC-DC to another DC-DC is not a "modification".
Changing battery chemistry is a "modification".
Moving the batteries would be a "modification".
In my view.
Cheers,
Peter
Ineedabiggerboat said
01:43 PM Dec 21, 2025
I think Battery World change batteries.
Try them.
Corndoggy said
03:08 PM Dec 21, 2025
Yet they have classed ALL batteries the same under these regulations for new installs. Therefore replacement batteries should be just a replacement irrespective of chemistries. Under these regulations a battery is a battery treated all the same. So according to that is it something that has changed or replaced? Say I changed my dc-dc charger from a Projecta to Victron, both dc-dc charger, both do the same thing, just one might do things better, is that a change or replacement?
-- Edited by Corndoggy on Sunday 21st of December 2025 03:19:35 PM
-- Edited by Corndoggy on Sunday 21st of December 2025 03:26:57 PM
Peter_n_Margaret said
04:58 PM Dec 21, 2025
Corndoggy wrote:
Yet they have classed ALL batteries the same under these regulations for new installs. Therefore replacement batteries should be just a replacement irrespective of chemistries. Under these regulations a battery is a battery treated all the same.
Not so.
The mounting is the same, but Lithium batteries require a battery management system not required by LA batteries.
The BMS is required to perform very specific functions.
I am not sure if a spill tray is required for lithium batteries. They are required for LA.
Venting for Li batteries is specified quite differently from the venting for LA batteries.
You need to read the standard.
Cheers,
Peter
-- Edited by Peter_n_Margaret on Sunday 21st of December 2025 05:12:18 PM
Stevejaz said
08:18 PM Dec 21, 2025
I think the most relevant issue here is insurance cover.
I don't think much is going to contain a lithium fire should one start.
I have heard Carbon Monoxide is the risky gas from Lithium and only under certain failure conditions. This also explains the requirement for top vent as CO is lighter than O2 and will rise, making a bottom vent only pretty useless.
With LiFeO4 batteries the main cause of fire is faulty wiring. That seems to me to be Number ONE consideration.
If I'm burnt to death in a motorhome fire, the insurance payout is going to be the least of my concerns.
Yes switching from SLA to Lithium batteries Does require current New regulations. I have absolutely no problem meeting or exceeding them. They are after all minimum standards.
I have since found that requirements for external ventilation are totally about gas and nothing to do with fire. Not even as a result of gas.
I have decided to double the size of the batteries in the A Van and charge Motorhome SLA batteries from inverter in A Van.(30 amp Victron mains chargers in both, used with generator)
This is mainly because it is much easier to meet ventilation requirements in A Van. Motorhome battery compartment adjoins Gas bottle locker so I would choose an alternative path for exterior ventilation for top vent. Bottom con go through floor.
I will probably use wood and build straight off floor though I could use angle iron frame (mig welded) and Sikaflex to attach thin Gal sheeting. Standard PVC plumbing fittings to vent. Probably less than 10% the cost of some pre-made box. Also designed to suit location.
Biggest issue would be finding right place to go through Motorhome wall should I instal in Motorhome, which I may do down the track.
PeterInSa said
04:37 PM Dec 22, 2025
Re (I think the most relevant issue here is insurance cover.)
See below for the wording of a popular Insurance Company PDS, to me meaning is along the lines of: if the 12v electrical system is not as per the original caravan Spec, any changes need to be signed off by a Licensed Tech. ( A friend had a dealer install a solar system in his motorhome prior to pickup/handover, 11 months later the solar panel flew off on his way home from a trip, he did not claim on his insurance, the dealer just replaced it, but I wonder if the dealer had a licenced tech sign off, to me probably not... Insurance Company comment maybe along the lines of...Structural mounting Failure?)
From sections of the PDS
You are not covered under any section of this policy for damage, loss, cost or legal liability that is caused by or arises from or involves:
Condition of motorhome, annexe or contents any mould, mildew, rot, wear and tear, gradual deterioration, corrosion, rusting, depreciation, lack of maintenance.. mechanical, structural, gas, electrical or electronic breakdown, failure or breakage;
Electrical fault or gas leak An electrical fault in the wiring or gas leak in your motorhome, where the electrical wiring or gas fittings were installed or previously repaired by an unlicensed or unqualified person.
You are not covered under any section of this policy for damage, loss, cost or legal liability that is caused by or arises from or involves: Lighting or heating elements, fuses or protective devices lighting or heating elements, fuses or protective devices.
-- Edited by PeterInSa on Monday 22nd of December 2025 04:38:02 PM
Hi guys; Some sparky may be able to shred a bit of light on the subject.
What are the requirements for mounting batteries inside of your caravan. As far as i can find out, the batteries can be mounted in a non habital space, this i would read as under the bed or couch or cuboard or outside mounted to the chassie of the caravan and inclosed into a vented inclosure ?? My problem is that while i have 2 x 220 Ah AGM batteries under my bed, these i would think now haveing reach the end of life use and i have ordered one 300 Ah lifepo4 Lithium battery in the same spot as the old AGM batteries. But what about the " vented " inclosure, and if the same rules would apply to a caravan that is now over 12 years old. A 300 Ah lithium battery is a little on the large size and i'm unable to find a inclosure that would house the new battery.
www.youtube.com/watch
Make of it what you will. This is not a recommendation and I have no connection to the author.
Hi Stephen, I am not a Sparky.
My three 135AH LiFePO4 batteries are situated in the bed cavity which is not vented. Been like that for four years. Not aware that Lithium batteries require venting, as wet cell batteries.
Interesting to see the more recent regulations in the YouTube video as posted by msg.
I have a skylight vent above the bed so any mishap may eject me through the ceiling.
AS_NZS_3001.2
250kb pdf:
https://www.diycaravans.com.au/wp-content/uploads/AS_NZS_3001.2_Technical_Bulletin_Batteries.pdf
Lead-Acid Batteries
The following requirements apply to all types of lead-acid batteries and apply in addition to the general requirements above.
The location of the battery must allow for easy access for maintenance or removal.
A spill tray must be installed under the battery(ies) that can hold a minimum 20% of the electrolyte held by the battery(ies)
1. External locations
External locations are defined as being open to the environment or outside the enclosed, habitable area of the recreational vehicle.
Batteries located externally must be either in a ventilated battery compartment or on a spill tray and open to the environment.
The location must provide sufficient mechanical/structural protection against damage from rocks and debris during recreational vehicle travel.
If located in a battery compartment, ventilation must be provided that prevents any vented gases entering the habitable area of the recreational vehicle.
2. Internal locations
A battery located internally in the recreational vehicle must be located in a battery compartment that is vented to the outside of the vehicle. Any opening into the interior (habitable area) must be provided with an air seal.
The battery compartment must be ventilated by one of the following methods:
Installing a battery that incorporates an external ventilation kit that opens to the exterior of the vehicle and ensuring that it is installed in line with the battery manufacturer's instructions.
Providing tube ventilation above the battery and a lower vent opening in the compartment
Providing upper and lower vent openings within 50mm of the top/bottom of the compartment, eg vents in the compartment door.
For full details refer clause 5.4.11.4 and Figures 5.3-5.5.
Battery ventilation openings have a minimum vent area requirement, which is calculated based on the ratings of the battery. The calculation formula and an example can be found in clause 5.4.11.5.
To save people from having to watch through 25 minutes of video, what is the opinion in regards to the OP's question?
What about LiFePO4 batteries?
Same requirements.
Cheers,
Peter
The above pdf link opens on my phone if I press & hold on it, then you have the full pdf. Even using Kiwi Browser (less ads).
Lithium-Ion Batteries
The following requirements apply to all types of lithium-ion batteries and apply in addition to the general requirements above.
Batteries must be located externally - ie behind a wall, compartment or barrier that prevents any vented gases entering the habitable area of the recreational vehicle.
The installer is required to consult with the battery manufacturer and supplier to confirm a compartment and venting design that is appropriate for the type of battery.
The location must be appropriate to ensure that the battery operates within the manufacturer's defined operating temperatures and IP rating.
If the battery manufacturer has not provided encapsulated cells, the battery must be installed in a suitable container.
Lithium-ion batteries must comply with AS IEC 62619.
Note: this standard is available through Caravan Industry Association of Australia and the i2i platform. See access details at the end of this bulletin.
Battery Management Safety System
Each lithium-ion battery must be provided with a battery management safety system, either integrated into the battery pack or as a separate component.
Located within or adjacent to the battery - no greater than 600mm from the battery Continuously monitor and protect against O Over and under voltage
Over and under temperature
Over current
Must be supplied by the same manufacturer as the battery cells or be in line with their recommendations.
Battery Monitoring Device
Each lithium-ion battery (or bank of batteries) must be monitored by a suitable battery monitor - designed for monitoring lithium ion batteries.
The monitor must display the state of charge and may display battery voltage.
Communications between the battery management safety system and the battery monitor/display may be either a wired or wireless connection.
Does this also refer to LiFePO4 batteries or only Lithium-Ion?
Cheers,
Peter
Following Peter's comment I think the terminology could do with bit of clarification.
While technically correct that the term Lithium-ion covers LiFePO4, as battery technology evolves, Lithium-ion is becoming less commonly used for LiFePO4 batteries.
The LiFePO4 refers to the chemistry ..... Lithium, Iron and Phosphate. Whereas Lithium-ion now generally refers to the non phosphate chemistries. Lithium-ion is more energy dense than Lithium Phosphate, but does have a greater thermal runaway risk. There are many articles pointing to the distinction. Here are a couple:
Evergen-Energy
LithiumBatteryTech
-- Edited by Are We Lost on Tuesday 11th of June 2024 12:22:15 PM
I suggest you acquire the new regulations that the guy on UTube was discussing to verify what he is saying and his interpretation for those arguing technical points on names etc.
Take time out, listen to him and you will have your answers.
These are new revised regulations that apply to 12v systems
FYI. Keeping it simple. LifeP04 are unlikely to explode in flames like the Lithium ion ones therefore are a lot safer in caravans. Unlikely being the operative word, no guarantees.
Whenarewethere, this guy is referring to AS3001.2.2022. That came into force 18/11/2023. If it makes any difference.
-- Edited by msg on Tuesday 11th of June 2024 01:21:16 PM
The new regs are for NEW installations and are not retrospective.
Replacing a defunct battery would not be caught up in the new requirements.
Alan
Nevertheless, also good if feasible to incorporate what you can of the latest regulations.
Yes, I thought this to be the case.
You lot will argue over nothing.
If you were to watch the clip, he said that it was effective for new builds from 18/11/22. given twelve months to rectify and came into force 18/11/23. So refers to builds after 18/11/22. By now there could be quite a few. Anyway, for me it doesn't hurt to comply with the latest standards just for our own safety. Particularly, when the subject could be volatile and dangerous.
Hi Valiant81,
I will put my head on the chopping block once again.
Firstly, there is no legislation preventing you from undertaking your own battery change over.
There is no Federal or State legislation in the respective legislative databases that requires you to comply with AS/NZ 3001.2:2002 In undertaking the battery change over.
There is no Federal or State Authority to administer the non existent legislation and,
there are no penalties that can be imposed on you under the non existent legislation for not installing your batteries to AS/NZ 3001.2:2002.
In other words it is entirely your choice whether you install your new battery to the latest standard or not.
You may wish to take a read of your insurance PDS just to be sure that there is nothing written in that but it would surprise me if there was. Our golf club has been told that under the next policy golf carts with LiFePO4 batteries will not be able to be parked under the building.
As for safety, LiFePO4 are considered safer than AGM.
By the way, under the bed is considered a habitable space, that is where the monsters live.
I would consider using foam blocks as spacers. Some sort of Bunnings type PVC pipe fittings for ventilation.
Battery location is under seating. I want to build box for batteries only with all other components pretty much as they are already. Fusing, bus bars, solar regulator, Mains charger etc etc.
To me. the tin box rather than Wood, Fibreglass and AL will minimise the risk/impact of a fire. But do your own research.
Of course you could make the box and buy a door which are readily available for Gas Boxes.
.www.ebay.com.au/itm/265624898136
But changing battery types would, or any other "modification".
Cheers,
Peter
So how does this go?
I replace my old batteries with new ones. Does it matter I go from AGM to Lithium iron phosphate?
A few months later I change my DC-DC charger as it doesn't charge my batteries well.
A few months later I change the battery monitor shunt as the old one is not compatible with the recently replaced batteries.
I have not done a new installation, I have just changed existing parts the don't work properly.
And if it has to comply what about if I have to change a fuse, that is just changing something that doesn't work. Where do you draw the line?
Pretty obvious to most people.
Changing a fuse or one DC-DC to another DC-DC is not a "modification".
Changing battery chemistry is a "modification".
Moving the batteries would be a "modification".
In my view.
Cheers,
Peter
Yet they have classed ALL batteries the same under these regulations for new installs. Therefore replacement batteries should be just a replacement irrespective of chemistries. Under these regulations a battery is a battery treated all the same. So according to that is it something that has changed or replaced? Say I changed my dc-dc charger from a Projecta to Victron, both dc-dc charger, both do the same thing, just one might do things better, is that a change or replacement?
-- Edited by Corndoggy on Sunday 21st of December 2025 03:19:35 PM
-- Edited by Corndoggy on Sunday 21st of December 2025 03:26:57 PM
Not so.
The mounting is the same, but Lithium batteries require a battery management system not required by LA batteries.
The BMS is required to perform very specific functions.
I am not sure if a spill tray is required for lithium batteries. They are required for LA.
Venting for Li batteries is specified quite differently from the venting for LA batteries.
You need to read the standard.
Cheers,
Peter
-- Edited by Peter_n_Margaret on Sunday 21st of December 2025 05:12:18 PM
I don't think much is going to contain a lithium fire should one start.
I have heard Carbon Monoxide is the risky gas from Lithium and only under certain failure conditions. This also explains the requirement for top vent as CO is lighter than O2 and will rise, making a bottom vent only pretty useless.
With LiFeO4 batteries the main cause of fire is faulty wiring. That seems to me to be Number ONE consideration.
If I'm burnt to death in a motorhome fire, the insurance payout is going to be the least of my concerns.
Yes switching from SLA to Lithium batteries Does require current New regulations. I have absolutely no problem meeting or exceeding them. They are after all minimum standards.
I have since found that requirements for external ventilation are totally about gas and nothing to do with fire. Not even as a result of gas.
I have decided to double the size of the batteries in the A Van and charge Motorhome SLA batteries from inverter in A Van.(30 amp Victron mains chargers in both, used with generator)
This is mainly because it is much easier to meet ventilation requirements in A Van. Motorhome battery compartment adjoins Gas bottle locker so I would choose an alternative path for exterior ventilation for top vent. Bottom con go through floor.
I will probably use wood and build straight off floor though I could use angle iron frame (mig welded) and Sikaflex to attach thin Gal sheeting. Standard PVC plumbing fittings to vent. Probably less than 10% the cost of some pre-made box. Also designed to suit location.
Biggest issue would be finding right place to go through Motorhome wall should I instal in Motorhome, which I may do down the track.
Re (I think the most relevant issue here is insurance cover.)
See below for the wording of a popular Insurance Company PDS, to me meaning is along the lines of: if the 12v electrical system is not as per the original caravan Spec, any changes need to be signed off by a Licensed Tech. ( A friend had a dealer install a solar system in his motorhome prior to pickup/handover, 11 months later the solar panel flew off on his way home from a trip, he did not claim on his insurance, the dealer just replaced it, but I wonder if the dealer had a licenced tech sign off, to me probably not... Insurance Company comment maybe along the lines of...Structural mounting Failure?)
From sections of the PDS
You are not covered under any section of this policy for damage, loss, cost or legal liability that is caused by or arises from or involves:
Condition of motorhome, annexe or contents
any mould, mildew, rot, wear and tear, gradual deterioration, corrosion, rusting, depreciation, lack of maintenance..
mechanical, structural, gas, electrical or electronic breakdown, failure or breakage;
Electrical fault or gas leak
An electrical fault in the wiring or gas leak in your motorhome, where the electrical wiring or gas fittings were installed or previously repaired by an unlicensed or unqualified person.
You are not covered under any section of this policy for damage, loss, cost or legal liability that is caused by or arises from or involves:
Lighting or heating elements, fuses or protective devices lighting or heating elements, fuses or protective devices.
-- Edited by PeterInSa on Monday 22nd of December 2025 04:38:02 PM