Victron LG Chem RESU Compatibility Guide

Key Takeaways

• The MultiPlus 48/3000/35 is the only Victron inverter/charger approved for use with LG Chem RESU batteries.
• A Victron GX device (Color Control GX or VENUS GX) is mandatory for CAN-bus communication and system operation.
• LG Chem RESU batteries are only supported in on-grid, self-consumption systems using Victron ESS.
• LG no longer supports the Resu models that were previously compatible, meaning information may be for archive purposes only.

Is your LG Chem RESU battery compatible with Victron Energy systems?

Compatibility between LG Chem RESU batteries and Victron Energy systems is highly specific and limited to certain Victron components and system configurations. The primary requirement is the use of a MultiPlus 48/3000/35 inverter/charger alongside a Victron GX device for essential communication. Without these specific components and correct setup, the system will not function as intended, or the battery may shut down.

Compatibility Checks for LG Chem RESU and Victron Systems

Before attempting to integrate an LG Chem RESU battery with a Victron Energy system, perform the following checks to ensure compatibility.

1. Verify Victron Inverter/Charger Model: Confirm that your Victron inverter/charger is specifically the MultiPlus 48/3000/35. This is the only Victron inverter/charger approved by LG for use with the Resu battery.
2. Confirm GX Device Presence: Ensure a Victron GX device, such as a Color Control GX (CCGX) or VENUS GX, is installed in your system. A GX device is required.
3. Check CAN-bus Connection: Verify that the GX device is connected via CAN-bus to the LG Chem RESU battery. It is essential to use the CAN-bus connection of the GX device with the LG batteries for the keep-alive signal, communication of charge and discharge limits, error codes and state of charge.
4. Review System Type: Confirm that your system is configured for on-grid self-consumption. LG Chem RESU batteries can only be used in On-grid systems, for self-consumption. They are not for off-grid systems.
5. Inspect MPPT Solar Chargers: If your system includes MPPT Solar Chargers, ensure they are models with a VE.Direct port. MPPT Solar Chargers with the VE.Can port are not supported.
6. Check Firmware Versions: It is highly recommended to use the latest firmware version on all connected devices, including CCGX/VENUS GX, Inverter/Charger and MPPTs. The minimum required firmware version for the Color Control GX is v2.15.

LG Chem RESU and Victron System Compatibility Requirements

The table below outlines the specific requirements for integrating LG Chem RESU batteries with Victron Energy systems. Adhering to these specifications is critical for proper operation and to avoid system faults.

Detailed Compatibility and Configuration Guidelines

Successful integration of an LG Chem RESU battery with a Victron Energy system depends on precise adherence to specific hardware and software configurations.

Approved Victron Inverter/Charger Model

The only Victron inverter/charger approved by LG for use with the Resu battery is the MultiPlus 48/3000/35. Attempting to use other Victron inverter/charger models with an LG Chem RESU battery is not supported and may lead to system instability or damage.

The Role of the GX Device

A Victron GX device, specifically the Color Control GX (CCGX) or the VENUS GX, is a mandatory component for this integration. It is essential to use the CAN-bus connection of the GX device with the LG batteries for the keep-alive signal, communication of charge and discharge limits, error codes and state of charge. Without the necessary CAN-bus keep-alive message from the GX device, the LG Resu will open its internal circuit breaker after 10 minutes.

System Type and Configuration

LG Chem RESU batteries are designed for specific system types when paired with Victron equipment. They can only be used in On-grid systems, for self-consumption. These batteries are not suitable for off-grid systems. Furthermore, you are not able to use these in parallel or three-phase configurations. The LG Battery can only be used in a Victron ESS installation that uses the ESS Assistant.

MPPT Solar Charger Integration

If your system includes MPPT Solar Chargers, ensure they are compatible. LG batteries Resu batteries may only be used with MPPT Solar Chargers with the VE.Direct port. The VE.Can MPPTs are not supported for use with LG Chem RESU batteries.

Firmware Best Practices

Maintaining up-to-date firmware across all components is crucial for optimal performance and compatibility. It is highly recommended to use the latest firmware version on all connected devices, including CCGX/VENUS GX, Inverter/Charger and MPPTs. The minimum required firmware version for the Color Control GX is v2.15. Note that you should not attempt firmware updates using the LG Chem battery f (the full statement regarding LG Chem battery firmware updates is truncated in the source material).

Battery Charge Behavior

It is normal for the LG Chem RESU battery not to charge to 100%. LG battery policy is to only charge the battery to 97% or 98%. This is expected behavior and not an indication of a fault.

Safety Considerations and End-of-Life Status

When working with any high-voltage battery system, always prioritize safety. Ensure all power sources are isolated before making or breaking connections. Use insulated tools to prevent accidental short circuits. A spanner across a battery bank can short hundreds of amps, causing severe burns or equipment damage.

It is important to note that LG no longer supports the Resu models that were previously compatible with Victron systems. The information provided here may be for archive purposes only. This means that official support, firmware updates, or warranty claims for these specific LG Chem RESU models may no longer be available. Proceed with caution and understand the implications of using unsupported equipment.

When to Seek Professional Assistance

You should contact a qualified solar technician if:

• Your LG Chem RESU battery consistently opens its internal circuit breaker after 10 minutes, even after verifying the GX device and CAN-bus connection.
• You are unable to achieve the required communication between the LG Chem RESU and Victron components despite following all compatibility guidelines.
• You encounter persistent error codes or unexpected system behavior that cannot be resolved through basic troubleshooting.
• You are unsure about any step in the installation or configuration process, especially given the end-of-life status of these LG Chem RESU models.

Given that LG no longer supports these RESU models, finding a technician familiar with this specific, older integration may be challenging.