Up until recently, we never would’ve considered a Plug & Play electrical system (Jackery, Bluetti, etc.) for our van because of all the compromises. But the Ecoflow Power Kits are different: not designed to be portable, they’re full-power, no-compromises, all-in-one solutions for campervans and RVs. While building a DIY system usually takes days, you can get an EcoFlow Power Kit up and running in just a few hours! It’s time to decide on our next power system, and we want to know what the catch is… let’s find out!
In a nutshell
EcoFlow Power Kit
Plug & Play
- Cost: $6,550
- 5kW Independence Kit
(CamperVan-HQ with 10% discount code “FAROUTRIDE10” -Nov 2024-).
- 5kW Independence Kit
- Time: a few hours.
- Just a bit more time than watching DIY tutorial videos…
- Process:
- Install major components (Battery, Hub, AC/DC distribution, console) using provided templates, hardware, and mounts.
- Plug cables.
- Power up and go through initial setup.
- Risk or error: low.
- Integrated system eliminates design and build mistakes.
- Warranty: 5 years.
Victron
DIY
- Cost: $8,015
- 400Ah BattleBorn & Victron components
(Explorist Kit -Nov 2024-).
- 400Ah BattleBorn & Victron components
- Time: a few days.
- An experienced installer will take about 2-3 days to design, install, and commission a modest Victron system.
- Process:
- Design.
- Install major components (Batteries, inverter/charger, solar charger, alternator charger, bus bars, breakers, DC fuse block, AC breaker panel, shunt, monitor, etc.).
- Install connectors (cut, crimp, heat shrink, repeat).
- Route cables and connect (torque to specs).
- Program components (Multiplus, DC-DC, MPPT, etc.).
- Risk of error: higher.
- Electrical fires are most often triggered at connection level (wrong cables/components sizing, defective crimp, loose connection, etc.). Using high-quality components is not an insurance against that.
- Warranty (Victron): 5 years.
We will definitely document the installation, setup, and everything if we go that route! But for now, this unbiased video does a really good job of reviewing the whole system and highlighting the features, installation, and setup:
Where to buy
We found Campervan-HQ to have the best deals on the EcoFlow, and we’d rather buy from an established dealer with warranty parts available (they’re based in Portland, Oregon). If going with a GEN 1 Power Kit, we recommend getting the Independence Kit:
- Get Set Kit: Power Hub, Battery, Cable Pack.
- Prepared Kit: Get Set Kit + AC/DC Distribution Panel + Battery Strap.
- Independence Kit: Prepared Kit + Power Kit Console (7″ LCD Touchscreen Monitor).
Use the links below and the code FAROUTRIDE10 at checkout to save 10% on your Power Kit. You won’t find a better deal anywhere else (if so, please contact us).
Specifications/Limitations
There’s virtually no limit on what DIY system you can build. But let’s compare a 400Ah DIY system to a 5kWh EcoFlow Power Kit, which is pretty standard for campervans nowadays.
| COMPARISON | VICTRON DIY (5kWh) | ECOFLOW POWER KIT (5kWh) | NOTE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 5120Wh | 400Ah | 5120Wh | 400Ah | Equivalent to 4 x 100Ah Lithium batteries (DIY). |
| Solar charge | 2560W | optimal for lifespan 5120W | fast charge | 4600W | With no alternator 3200W | With 768W alternator 1600W | With 1152W alternator | The EcoFlow has 3 inputs total for solar AND alternator COMBINED. |
| Alternator charge | 2560W | optimal for lifespan 5120W | fast charge | 1600W | With no solar 1152W | With 1600W solar | In theory the EcoFlow could charge up to 4600W on 48V alternator, but most alternators are 12.8V so that’s the real limitation here. |
| Shore input | 1536W | 3000W | With a Victron Multiplus 3000VA |
| DC output | 4800W | 1000W @12V 1600W @24V | This limitation on the EcoFlow prevents from running 12V/24V DC A/C, but a workaround is to use a 48V A/C plugged into the battery port on the Power Hub. |
| DC loads voltage | 12, 24, or 48V | 12, or 24V | You can set the EcoFlow DC output to 12V OR 24V (not both). |
| AC output (continuous) | 2400W | 3600W | The Multiplus branding is confusing… it’s 3000VA (not Watts); it is rated for 2400W continuous. |
| Heated battery | Yes (optional) | Yes | |
| Pricing | $8,000-$9,500 | $6,550 | (CamperVan-HQ with 10% discount code “FAROUTRIDE10” -Nov 2024-) |
| Expand battery capacity | Cheap, flexible | from $1,749 (+2kWh)* | Even if the EcoFlow has fewer parts to handle, the result occupies a little more space. |
| Size | Potentially smaller footprint, but often results in scattered components. | Needs a bit more room, but all components integrated (clean). | Even if the EcoFlow has less parts to handle, the result occupies a little more space. |
Clarifications: DC Input (Charge sources)
The EcoFlow Power Kits have 3 inputs (1, 2, and 3). Each input can be used either for solar OR alternator charging:
Input 1
13-60V
MAX 60A
MAX 1600W
Typically used for alternator charging. Can be throttled down to reduce wear and tear on alternator. Typically alternators in North-America charge at ~13.5V, so we’ve got approximately 13.5V x 60A = 800W of charge (not 1600W!)
Input 2
13-60V
MAX 30A
MAX 1600W
If you need more than 60A alternator charging, this input can be used as well as alternator input (for 30A more alternator charging).
Input 3
13-60V
MAX 30A
MAX 1600W
Typically used for solar.
OR, can be used for an additional 30A alternator charging (120A total) if you want NO SOLAR at all.
Gen 1 vs Gen 2 EcoFlow Power Kits
EcoFlow Gen 2 Power Kits are currently on pre-order (use code FAROUTRIDE10 at checkout to save 10%) and are expected to ship by the end of 2024.
New!
Power Link
Allows to display sensors (water level, temperature, etc.):
Power Dock
Allows to add up to 9 batteries per Power Hub:
Both products above can be used with GEN 1 Power Kits!
Updated
- Power Hub.
- Distribution Panel.
- 10-in Touch-Screen (“PowerInsight”).
Here is what we know so far (only the changes are noted below):
EcoFlow Power Kit Changes
GEN 1 vs GEN 2
| GEN 1 | GEN 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| POWER HUB | ||
| Dimensions | 18.9″ x 5.5″ x 11.8″ | Same dimensions |
| Weight | 31 lb | 34 lb |
| AC Out | 3600W | 5kVA |
| AC Voltage | 120V | 120V or 240V |
| Battery Ports | 3 Battery Ports (including 48V Output) | 3 Battery Ports + 48V Output |
| DC Out (max) | 70A | 100A |
| Solar Input | 15-150V 30A|30A|30A | 13-60V 60A|30A|30A |
| Alternator Input | 60A (PV Input 1) | 100A (PV Input 1) |
| Noise | ? | Reduced from (?) to 48 dB |
| DISTRIBUTION PANEL | ||
| Dimensions | 8.3″H x 13.9″W x 3.9″D | 15.3″ x 5.3″ x 10.6″ |
| Weight | 5.7 lb | 8.8 lb |
| DC Out | 12 DC Out (1-12: 20A) | 16 DC Out (1-13: 30A 14-16: 50A) |
| Controllable Circuits | 6 (1-6) | All 16 |
| AC Out | 6 AC Out (20A each) | 12 AC Out (30A each) |
| AC In | 30A AC Breakers (proprietary) | 30/50A AC Breakers (standard) |
| TOUCH-SCREEN | 7-in “Console” | 10-in “Power Insight” * Read note below table. |
| Power Link NEW! | Compatible with GEN 1 | |
| Voltage Sensors | 4 | |
| Resistance Sensors | 4 | |
| Digital Inputs | 1 | |
| Relays | 2 | |
| Power Dock NEW! | Compatible with GEN 1 | Adds 3 battery ports to any battery port on the Power Hub. So a total of 9 batteries can be connected to a Power Hub. |
| BATTERIES | No changes from GEN 1 to GEN 2. |
* We have reports from beta testers that the 10-in Power Insight draws a lot of power for itself, and as such, the 7-in Console may be a better choice for mobile systems (vans, RVs, etc.) to prevent phantom battery loss. Campervan-HQ now offers the 7-in Console as an option with the GEN2 Power Kits.
Cost vs Time
The Power kit installation process is far more straightforward and quicker to complete. Unlike a Victron system, which can require an experienced installer several days to set up and configure properly, an EcoFlow system can be operational in just a fraction of the time (about 1/3 of the time). The installation kit is thoughtfully put together, offering comprehensive templates, user-friendly instructions, and most of the necessary hardware.
All-In-One Convenience
The EcoFlow is an integrated system: the solar, alternator, and shore charger are built into the Power Hub along with the inverter. Everything is neatly packaged together, preventing scattered components, which is often the case with DIY electrical systems.
Simplicity
Victron’s systems are known for their extensive features and customization options. However, this flexibility can sometimes create challenges, as both end-users and pro installers might struggle with the vast array of settings and the various ways that components can interact—either boosting or limiting each other depending on configuration.
EcoFlow, on the other hand, sidesteps this complexity with an extremely straightforward setup. Its systems are generally plug-and-play, with most components being EcoFlow-specific, reducing potential conflicts. The wiring is also straightforward, as most of it uses their proprietary connectors.
For those seeking ease of use, EcoFlow shines; but for those wanting more control and features, Victron is still a solid choice.
Target Audience
Ecoflow Power Kit
Begginers-Experts
While beginners may choose a Power Kit for its simplicity and low risk, experts may be drawn to it for the all-in-one convenience and short installation time.
Victron
Intermediates-Experts
Intermediates who have the time and are open to learning (Electrical Guide) or experts who want to take advantage of the configurability.
Our Decision
Up until recently, designing and building an electrical system was a rite of passage for DIY & professional van conversions. But let’s pause a minute and think about what a van really means for us: get out and ride!
If we can get up and running in less time, for about the same price, without compromising on quality, then we can’t think of a reason not to go for it! While we have the knowledge and skills to make our own DIY electrical system, we’d rather finish the van, get out, and ride.
We’re still a few months away from building our electrical system, so we’re not committing just yet… But we’re definitely thinking about it…
Update November 2024: We pre-ordered a Gen 2 Power Kit!
We wanted to wait a few weeks to ensure impulsion was out of the equation… We did wait, and all the reasoning above is still valid, so it’s fair to say going with a Power Kit is a rational decision! We ordered from Campervan-HQ and the kit is supposed to ship in late December 2024. Very excited to have power in the van soon!
I like the looks of this. I tried using the discount code but it didn’t work. I haven’t purchased yet… hoping to get that discount code to work 🙂
You’re correct, the code seems inactive. I just reached out and I’ll report back as soon as I hear from them.
But just to let you know, the 10% code won’t work on Black Friday sale Items (GEN1 Power Kit).
Cheers,
Antoine
So turns out the discount code are disabled during Black Friday (because it’s already on sale). Back on Tuesday December 3rd.
Interesting product. I noticed that you only get 12 fused DC connection points which could be a limiting factor. Before I built my electrical panel I looked at products from RedArc and almost bought it but the limitation was that you could not have solar panels in series (max voltage). Devil ist often in the details.
i would strongly consider an epoch 460Ah battery in place of the (IMO) overpriced battleborn equivalent. it has an internal t-class fuse, high and low temp cut off, it’s heated, and has domestic support. that’s why i went with it at least – all the teardown videos have been great. depending on the config you could easily save $1k over battleborn for possible a better product. not sure if this is important to you but it was for me
Long overdue, but I just published this: https://faroutride.com/battleborn-alternatives/
Thank you for the motivation 😉
Salut ABG, comment allez-vous tous les deux ?
J’ai été intrigué par ton EcoFlow concept. J’aimerais adapter ma vieille Gran Caravan avec un peu de commodité et j’ai tombé sur des recommandations de Ecoflow, ca semble beaucoup plus simple at facile à utiliser. Je vais approfondir mes recherches.
P.S.: Je roule toujours le Kona !
Au Plaisir
André! Content d’avoir de tes nouvelles!! Je t’ai répondu par email…
Antoine