The EcoFlow dual-fuel Smart Generator next to Fabian\u2019s three LFP batteries in their temporary position. The batteries will likely be hidden in the final design. <\/em><\/figcaption><\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n
In fact, Fabian says his 15kWh configuration is overkill for a typical van and is better suited for tiny off-grid homes fitted with heavy-duty appliances. \u201cI think if you are living and working off-grid, three batteries is definitely a bonus. But for a general system installed in a van, I think you should be okay with one 5kWh battery.\u201d Nevertheless, Fabian plans to tap into all of that capacity to build a propane-free showcase van loaded with power-hungry kitchen, environmental, and entertainment tech.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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Installation is also constrained by EcoFlow\u2019s relatively large ventilation requirements that whittle away at precious space. The Power Hub requires at least 10cm (about four inches) on three sides (5cm \/ 2in on the left side) to ensure proper ventilation. \u201cThe Power Hub is a nice compact unit. On the other hand, it does need a lot of room for ventilation according to the manual,\u201d says Fabian. \u201cThe Victron elements are smaller and separate, so you can find better ways to use available space.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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The Power Hub\u2019s high-speed fans can get really loud as well. They spin up quickly after plugging the Power Hub into shore power for charging. EcoFlow has a reputation for its loud fans, but that\u2019s unavoidable with the current state of fast-charging tech. Fortunately, you can reduce the charging amperage in the app to lower the fan speeds, which could be a lifesaver if you need to charge overnight at an RV park while trying to sleep.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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\nFabian working from his van with the EcoFlow console showing charge status behind him.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/p>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n
There\u2019s also the issue of bugs. After installation, Fabian discovered that the batteries were draining despite all of his AC and DC devices being shut off, with two of his batteries discharging faster than the third. These issues were resolved through a series of firmware updates over a period of about four weeks. EcoFlow has a reputation for being quick to squash bugs. That\u2019s good, but you have to wonder how such obvious issues allowed the product to ship in the first place and what new problems will be discovered over long-term testing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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Fabian\u2019s final issue is a minor one. Unlike the LFP battery cables, most of the cables that ship with the kit are simply too long. Fabian specializes in building lightweight adventure vans in order to avoid European restrictions that kick in above 3.5 metric tons \u2014 so every gram counts. As such, he eventually plans to shorten the cables that run from the Power Hub to the starter battery and Smart Distribution Panel. That\u2019s no problem, though, as the connectors are designed to be opened in order to cut and reconnect the internal wires. And that work pales in comparison to all of the cables Fabian had to create from scratch for the Victron systems he\u2019s been using.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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With regard to EcoFlow\u2019s claim that the Power Kit can be installed \u201cfive times faster\u201d than competing systems, that\u2019s true, according to Fabian. His installation took less than five hours and included a deep dive into the manuals. Fabian notes, however, that the speed claim is only true for fully specced systems like the one he installed. If your needs are simple and therefore don\u2019t require a lot of cabling and configuration, then the Power Kit won\u2019t save a ton of time, he says.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n