This has been a problem for so long, I’m interested in golf carts and other related batteries, so I searched for you.
Yes, you can use your 12V 16Ah lithium battery to run a small DC 12V mini fridge in your van, but there are a few important considerations:
Power Consumption:
- Check the wattage or current draw of the mini fridge.
- If it consumes 50W, for example, the current draw would be 50W ÷ 12V = 4.16A.
- Your 16Ah battery would last about 16Ah ÷ 4.16A ≈ 3.8 hours (without accounting for efficiency losses).
Battery Protection:
Ensure the battery’s BMS (Battery Management System) can handle the fridge’s startup surge, as some fridges draw more current when starting.
Avoid discharging the battery too deeply to prolong its lifespan.
Charging via Cargo Voltage Sensitive Relay (VSR):
This is a good method to charge the battery from your van’s alternator.
Use inline fuses on both the input (from van battery) and output (to lithium battery) to prevent overcurrent damage.
Ensure the VSR is compatible with lithium batteries, as some are designed for lead-acid and may not charge lithium efficiently.
Alternative Charging Options:
If possible, consider a DC-DC charger designed for lithium batteries instead of a standard VSR, as it ensures proper charging voltages.
A solar panel can be added for additional charging, especially if parked for long periods.
