Litime 36V 45Ah LiFePO4 Battery review

?Are we looking for a high-cycle, high-performance drop-in replacement battery for our golf cart, marine craft, or home-energy setup that also comes with a smart charger and app monitoring?

Quick Verdict

We think the LiTime 36V 45Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery with 43.8V 18A Charger, Group GC2,Built-in 90A BMS, Bluetooth 5.0,4000 Cycles, Max 3.456kW Continuous Power Output, Perfect for Golf Carts, Marine, Home Energy is a compelling upgrade from traditional lead-acid and AGM packs. It pairs EV-grade cells and a generous cycle life with modern features such as Bluetooth monitoring, built-in BMS protections, and a high-current charger. For users who want longer life, less maintenance, and faster charging for golf carts or energy storage, this kit addresses most of the common pain points.

What’s in the Box

We like clear, practical packaging and this product typically includes the battery pack and the 43.8V 18A smart LiFePO4 charger as a matched set. The charger has an independent AC cable and a handle for portability, plus a 50A Anderson connector and an improved on/off switch for convenience. Shipping may come in multiple packages due to size, so we advise checking all boxes when the order arrives.

Key Specifications

We find it useful to put technical specs in a single table so that we can compare numbers quickly. Below is a breakdown of the headline specs supplied by the manufacturer and some conservative interpretations.

Design and Build Quality

We appreciate that LiTime uses EV-grade cells and a robust housing for the pack. The pack is designed to replace common Group GC2 and G2 AGM batteries like T-105/T-125, and the high-density design (reported as 48.07 Wh/lb) makes it far lighter than old lead-acid replacements. The integrated BMS, Anderson connector, and Bluetooth antenna seem well thought out for both durability and user convenience.

Performance in Real-World Use

We’ve tested and analyzed many lithium packs and here’s how we’d expect this one to behave in day-to-day scenarios. It should deliver immediate torque improvements in electric vehicles due to lower internal resistance, and for energy storage, it offers nearly continuous high power output relative to its size.

Power Output and Discharge Behavior

We note that the spec sheet lists a 2C discharge (90A continuous) with a 225A surge rating. That gives a theoretical continuous power near 3.24 kW (36V × 90A). The product title also cites Max 3.456 kW continuous; to remain conservative we recommend planning for at least 3.2 kW continuous from a single pack, with brief surges up to the listed 225A. This level of output handles most golf carts and many small marine or inverter loads without trouble.

Charging Speed and Efficiency

The included 43.8V 18A charger provides approximately 788W of charging power (43.8V × 18A ≈ 788 W). For a 1,620 Wh pack, ideal theoretical charge time from empty to full is roughly 2.0 hours (1,620 Wh / 788 W ≈ 2.05 h). Allowing for conversion losses and tapering current at the end of charge, 2.5 to 3 hours is a reasonable real-world estimate for a full recharge. That rapid charging is a major advantage over lead-acid batteries which often require 6–8 hours or longer.

Cycle Life and Longevity

Manufacturers claim 4000+ cycles at 100% depth-of-discharge (DOD). If that holds true in our hands, this battery could last many years even under heavy daily use. For example, 4,000 cycles at one cycle per day equals over 10 years of service — which matches the stated 10-year lifespan. Even with partial cycles, calendar life and practical longevity should be excellent compared to AGM batteries.

Charging Options and Flexibility

We value flexible charging methods and this setup supports standard AC charging, solar, and generator inputs. The charger accepts 100–240VAC input and the pack supports 1C maximum input, so charging from solar panels with a proper MPPT controller or from a generator is straightforward.

Using the Included Charger

The 43.8V 18A smart charger is compact and user-friendly. The 0V recovery function is particularly helpful for reconditioning packs that have fallen to very low states. We also like the improved on/off switch and independent AC lead, which make connection in tight spaces easier.

Charging from Solar or DC Sources

Because the pack accepts up to 1C input, and because the built-in BMS handles necessary protections, we can integrate this battery into small off-grid or backup systems. We recommend using an MPPT charge controller sized to deliver appropriate voltage/current for LiFePO4 chemistry and to prevent overcharging.

Monitoring and Connectivity

Bluetooth 5.0 and the LiTime app bring real-time monitoring to the battery. We find app-based monitoring convenient for checking state-of-charge, voltage, current, temperature, and historical data without disassembling anything. The Bluetooth link allows us to observe charge cycles and health metrics, which is useful for preventive maintenance and system planning.

Temperature and Safety Protections

We appreciate that the battery includes low-temperature protections: a discharge cutoff at -4°F and a charge cutoff at 32°F. That prevents charging at temperatures where LiFePO4 chemistry could be damaged and blocks discharge at dangerously low temperatures. The internal 90A BMS adds tiers of protection such as cell balancing, over/under voltage cutoffs, and short-circuit detection.

Physical Size, Weight, and Replacement Fit

The manufacturer markets this as a Group GC2 form factor drop-in replacement for common G2 AGM cells like T-105/T-125. The reported energy density of 48.07 Wh/lb gives us an estimated pack weight around 34 lbs (1,620 Wh / 48.07 ≈ 33.7 lbs). That’s substantially lighter than traditional lead-acid GC2 batteries which often weigh 60–80+ lbs per battery.

Why Weight and Size Matter

We find that lighter batteries reduce strain on vehicle components and make installation/removal easier for maintenance. For golf carts and portable marine applications, the weight savings alone can improve range and handling.

Compatibility and Installation

We recommend confirming terminal types and spacing against the cart or system before purchasing. The pack is explicitly compatible with Club Car, E-Z-Go, and Yamaha models and should be straightforward for most installations that used GC2 lead-acid batteries. The included 50A Anderson connector on the charger simplifies charging hookups.

Multi-Pack and Expansion Options

We can scale the system by paralleling packs. The manufacturer references expanding up to “10,368 Wh (6P)” to achieve higher range or capacity. Using our base pack energy (1,620 Wh), six in parallel gives 9,720 Wh, so there is a small discrepancy between pure math and the marketing number; however, the practical takeaway is that we can parallel multiple units to meet higher capacity goals and range requirements. Always ensure that packs are at similar states-of-charge and age when paralleling.

Use Case: Golf Carts (Primary Use Case)

This battery is clearly aimed at golf-cart upgrades, and for good reason. Faster charging, higher usable energy, and lighter weight directly translate to more range, fewer mid-round worries, and better overall performance.

Range Estimates for Golf Carts

Range depends on cart power draw, terrain, passenger load, and speed. As an example:

• If a cart draws 300–500 W average while cruising, a 1,620 Wh pack can provide roughly 3.2–5.4 hours of continuous operation (1,620 Wh / 500 W = 3.24 h; /300 W = 5.4 h).
• In real terms, that might equate to 20–30 miles per charge for efficient carts under light loads, though heavy loads and hilly courses will reduce that figure.

If we parallel multiple packs, range scales accordingly — adding two or three packs is common to match or exceed the range of typical lead-acid bank configurations.

Use Case: Marine Applications

We like this battery for small marine craft that need reliable start/house power and don’t want the maintenance of wet cells. Low internal resistance and surge capability make it suitable for electric trolling motors and house loads like navigation and bilge pumps. The BMS protections and temperature cutoffs add confidence in saltwater or damp environments, but we recommend installing the battery in a dry, ventilated enclosure.

Use Case: Home Energy Backup and Solar Integration

For a compact home backup or off-grid system, the fast charge capability and long cycle life are attractive. The pack works well with small inverter systems for powering essential loads. The ability to fast-charge from a generator or high-current AC source is useful for rapid recovery after outages.

Practical Example: Emergency Backup

If we pair an inverter that draws 1,000 W for critical loads (lights, router, phone chargers), a single battery gives over an hour and a half of run-time under ideal conditions. Adding more packs in parallel extends run-time linearly.

Use Case: Street-Legal Low-Speed Vehicles

For street-legal low-speed vehicles (≤35 km/h), the pack’s performance and surge capability can handle motor controllers commonly used in those vehicles. We recommend verifying compatibility with the controller’s voltage limits and ensuring the BMS current rating meets peak demand.

Installation Tips and Best Practices

We recommend these practical steps for smooth installation:

• Verify terminal polarity and spacing before connecting.
• Use appropriate gauge cabling and quality connectors to handle continuous and surge currents.
• Keep battery and charger in a dry, ventilated area and protect the battery from direct exposure to water and extreme heat.
• When paralleling packs, match state-of-charge and age; use a balancing/charging strategy recommended by the manufacturer to prevent imbalances.

Maintenance and Care

We prefer LiFePO4 for low maintenance. Still, these simple practices extend life:

• Avoid long-term storage at full charge or very low SOC; store around 40–60% charge for long-term storage if possible.
• Keep firmware and app updated if the manufacturer provides updates.
• Monitor battery health via the Bluetooth app and note any trend toward cell imbalance or unusual temperature behavior.

Safety Considerations

Safety is paramount for lithium batteries. We value the built-in 90A BMS for protecting against over-current, over/under-voltage, and extreme temperature conditions. Proper fusing on the DC side, and adherence to wiring best practices, is essential. Also ensure the charger is used as intended and the battery is not charged below the specified temperature cutoff.

Warranty and Support

We appreciate the 5-year battery warranty and 2-year charger warranty included with the product. The manufacturer also touts 24/7 technical assistance with fast response times (within 24 hours). That level of support reduces our risk and adds confidence in purchasing.

Pros and Cons

We like to weigh strengths and weaknesses explicitly so we can make a balanced decision.

Pros:

• Very long cycle life (4000+ cycles at 100% DOD claimed).
• High discharge capability and surge support for motor starts.
• Fast charging with included 43.8V 18A charger.
• Bluetooth 5.0 monitoring with LiTime app — convenient diagnostics.
• Low-temperature cutoffs and built-in BMS provide safety features.
• Lighter and higher energy density compared to lead-acid GC2 batteries.
• Robust warranty and support.

Cons:

• Some spec inconsistencies in marketing copy (e.g., continuous power numbers vs. BMS current rating) mean we recommend conservative planning.
• Parallel expansion requires care to match packs and manage balancing.
• Charger and battery warranty durations differ; chargers may be more prone to wear and may need replacement after the charger’s 2-year warranty window in heavy usage scenarios.

Comparison to Typical GC2 AGM Batteries (Quick Overview)

A short comparison helps when deciding to upgrade.

Real-World Example Calculations

We’ve run basic calculations to help set expectations for common scenarios.

Charging time:

• Battery: 1,620 Wh
• Charger power: 43.8V × 18A = ≈788 W
• Theoretical time: 1,620 Wh / 788 W ≈ 2.05 hours
• Practical time (accounting for inefficiency): 2.5–3 hours

Continuous power (conservative):

• BMS continuous: 90A × 36V ≈ 3,240 W
• Manufacturer’s “Max 3.456 kW” may reflect a slightly higher nominal voltage or conservative marketing rounding; we plan for 3.2 kW continuous per pack.

Parallel expansion:

• 2 packs = 3,240 Wh
• 3 packs = 4,860 Wh
• 6 packs = 9,720 Wh (manufacturer states 10,368 Wh for 6P — either uses different nominal pack voltage or rounding)

Troubleshooting and Common Questions

We often get questions about app pairing, charger behavior, or whether these can replace existing G2 batteries directly. Our answers:

• App pairing: Use Bluetooth 5.0 via the LiTime app; follow on-screen pairing steps and keep firmware up to date.
• Charger “0V recovery”: If a deeply drained pack is detected, the charger can attempt to revive it. We recommend professional assistance if a pack has been at 0V for extended periods.
• Direct replacement: Confirm terminal spacing and vehicle wiring. In many golf carts and small EVs, this is a direct drop-in, but check mounting and fusing.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

We recommend the LiTime 36V 45Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Battery with 43.8V 18A Charger, Group GC2,Built-in 90A BMS, Bluetooth 5.0,4000 Cycles, Max 3.456kW Continuous Power Output, Perfect for Golf Carts, Marine, Home Energy for users who want a modern, high-cycle, low-maintenance battery upgrade. The fast charging, Bluetooth monitoring, robust BMS, and strong warranty make it a sensible choice for golf-cart owners, small marine craft, and compact home energy systems.

We advise being conservative when planning system current draw and when paralleling multiple units. Always follow installation best practices and respect temperature cutoffs for charging. With proper installation and care, this pack should repay its higher upfront cost through years of reliable service, faster charge times, and dramatically reduced maintenance compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.

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