Season wrap up… and finding clarity.
The season is a wrap, the Minnie is now hibernating, and I finally have the whole picture on winterizing the FLX system… I think.
First things first, are we happy we went with the FLX package? Actually, with all the issues and bad press the RV industry justly deserves for putting out subpar units and having no clue about how it (FLX) would perform… yes. While we’ve had some major annoyances related to the FLX settings and complete lack of information from Winnebago, our unit has actually been pretty solid. The FLX package has proven to actually do a solid job boon docking, unless you’re running AC that is. If you need AC the system ain’t gonna cut it beyond a brief stint, period!
So as far as the FLX package goes we do recommend it but I will point out, the 5 day claim off grid is compete marketing BS if you even think of running the AC… or doing much as far as running the microwave (limited use is ideal) or other high wattage appliances (see Keurig). If you can live without the AC and minimize other big hitter usage, it most certainly can go for several days. We actually have made the switch to a coffee percolator when off grid to avoid the hit caused by the Keurig as an FYI.
Another thing to realize is what is actually required for winterization. Because winterizing the FLX is a bit more complicated as Winnebago seems to have left out one important fact. The storage requirements for the 68lb battery that is buried in the storage bay. The general winterization is super simple as it really is just removing some panels and running RV antifreeze through the system. The battery on the other hand is not so simple. In essence, depending on time and expected temperatures, the battery may or may not have to be removed for the winter. The following will take you to Lithionics support page. Scroll to storage procedure to download the pdf. Lithioncs support
In short, there are 2 important facts about the battery. First, it needs to be discharged and then recharged every 6 months in order to maintain optimum battery capacity and life. Secondly, if it’s going to be stored for longer than 3 months and below freezing for more than a month… that big ass sucker needs to be pulled out and stored inside. Oh, did Winnebago not pass that along to you either? Funny how Winnebago on their promo for the battery mentions storage conditions above freezing yet completely neglects to address below freezing requirements. The thing that really irks me is they mention ABOVE FREEZING. So it isn’t like they were not aware of the requirements or privy to the readily available information from Lithionics. They completely leave that point out and then not only make the battery a pain to remove but don’t even let the dealerships or owners know. Insert expletive towards Winnebago here… or how about Winnebago just put an insert in the owners package. Printing the pdf from Lithionics site must be too much to handle at HQ.
Still, we are happy with our FLX even though it has been a royal pain in the ass to chase down, dig up, and pester the hell out of everyone associated with the package to fully grasp the quirks of this vs a traditional rig. Winnebago did virtually nothing to fully understand the needs of the system much less pass along the info to their dealers and the FLX owners. Hence, batteries shutting down in the southwest because they are overheating and northern units needing to have their batteries pulled in the cold. Both situations are big deals. Especially given the batteries are approximately $4500 a pop.
So, if you are considering the FLX vs a traditional setup, it really comes down to your individual needs and realistic expectations out of either setup. To put the premium price tag on the FLX into perspective, the inverter runs about $1500 plus $4500 for the battery. So just those 2 things add 6k to the price without adding the Truma appliances and bigger solar. I will point out that the Truma AC does work off of 110 without tripping the breaker as well. Pretty efficient stuff folks.
As this year has come to a close, I hope my tenacious desire to understand this system has helped you in your decision. Typically, I’m not the early adopter type of person but the FLX package really does kick ass, once everything is set correctly and you fully know what you’re getting.
Safe travels,
SB