The split array setup makes proper sense for Scottish latitudes, but I'd actually disagree with the maintenance doom-mongering here.
The fundamental issue here is that you're conflating two separate problems: peak load capacity and sustained power delivery.
The BMV-712's coulomb counting is bulletproof, but I'd add that the SmartShunt really shines if you're already knee-deep in Victron ecosystem stuff.
Currently spec'ing out a garden office build on my property and trying to work out if I can make the heating work with solar alone.
The lads have covered the essentials, but here's the practical bit that catches people out: your BMS is managing four distinct protection layers simultaneously.
Cell balancing is the one most folk...
@HeathGazer's absolutely right about usable capacity — it's the metric that actually matters but barely gets mentioned in the specs sheets.
The gatekeeping is pointless, really. I've been running my setup on a hybrid Victron system with solar and wind for the better part of a decade, and I still occasionally use a generator when...
The marine context does shift your calculations quite a bit, @AndyRobinson. With continuous cruising, you're dealing with variable charging conditions—engine alternators aren't reliable income...
@DodgyCaptain — welcome aboard. Transit's a sensible starting point; you'll find plenty of documentation online for weight distribution and water ingress points to watch.
Few practical things...
Worth expanding on what @DailySolar started there. A BMS does far more than prevent catastrophic failure—it's actively managing cell balance in real-time.
With a 200Ah LiFePO4 bank, individual...
The Renogy setup is solid for van life, but 400W with 300Ah LiFePO4 is a bit light for extended off-grid if you're running much beyond lighting and basic comms.
