Venus OS v3.73: Victron boosts Multi RS self-consumption and adds new Bluetooth sensors
On 19 May 2026, Victron Energy released Venus OS v3.73, the software update for its GX devices that control solar installations in homes, camper vans, boats and off-grid cabins. This version brings an important fix for anyone running a Multi RS connected to the grid, plus support for new accessories that will make life easier in a motorhome or sailboat.
What is Venus OS and why should you care?
Venus OS is the operating system that runs the "brain" of any modern Victron installation: the GX devices. If you have a Cerbo GX, MultiPlus-II GX or Color Control GX at home, in your van or on your boat, that small unit is what coordinates every component of the system (panels, batteries, inverter, charger, grid) and shows you in real time how much energy you are producing, storing and consuming.
When Victron releases a new Venus OS version, they are upgrading that brain: fixing bugs, adding support for new hardware and, sometimes, improving how solar energy is harvested. That is why keeping it up to date is well worth the few minutes it takes.
The biggest change: your Multi RS recovers solar output
If your installation combines self-consumption with the public grid using a Multi RS inverter and the DESS (Distributed ESS) feature, until now you may have been losing solar production without realising it. v3.73 fixes that.
Until this release, in certain situations the system would reduce solar power output when the household was also drawing electricity from the grid. The result: more grid consumption than necessary, because the panels were not delivering their full potential. With v3.73, your panels can run at full output again, which means more self-consumption and a lower electricity bill.
Clear recommendation: if your setup uses Multi RS with DESS enabled, update Venus OS as soon as you can. You will see the difference in your next bill.
New compatible accessories
Venus OS v3.73 expands the list of devices your system recognises automatically. That means you can add these accessories without complicated wiring jobs: the GX detects them and integrates them into your dashboard.
Energy meters
For measuring household consumption or specific circuits:
- VM-3P5A — Victron's own three-phase meter, ideal for homes with three-phase supply.
- Carlo Gavazzi EM530-RG and EM530-MV — professional alternatives with different variants depending on how currents are measured.
Bluetooth tank sensors
This is the news that vanlifers, motorhome owners and sailors will love most. Three new Bluetooth sensors that talk to the GX without running any cables:
- Mopeka Pro-200B — one of the favourites for gas and fuel tanks.
- Garnet SeeLeveL SOUL and Garnet SeeLeveL 709-BTP7 — designed for fresh water and grey water tanks.
Yes, you can now check from the GX screen (or from your phone) how much water you have left, how much gas, or how much room is left in the waste tank. No drilling, no extra wiring.
Off-grid homes, motorhomes, camper vans, boats, mountain cabins and any installation where you need to monitor tank levels without installing new wiring every time you add a tank.
How to update your GX to Venus OS v3.73
Steps for the online update (recommended)
- Make sure your GX is connected to the internet (Wi-Fi or ethernet cable).
- Go to the device menu: Settings → Firmware → Online updates.
- Tap "Check for new firmware" and, if v3.73 is available, tap "Update".
- Wait a few minutes. The GX will reboot automatically when it is done.
- Check the new version under Settings → Firmware → Firmware version.
If your installation is in an area without internet (remote cabin, boat at sea, off-grid property), you can also update manually by downloading the firmware to an SD card or USB stick. The detailed steps are in the device manual, section 9.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to update the firmware?
Yes. Venus OS updates are official Victron releases and are tested before publication. The only recommendation is not to power off the device during the process, just as you would not switch off your phone mid-update.
Will I lose my settings when I update?
No. Your configuration (charge profiles, DESS settings, alarms, etc.) is preserved intact after the update.
Is my GX compatible with Venus OS v3.73?
Yes, every modern GX device is: Cerbo GX, Cerbo-S GX, Color Control GX, Venus GX, MultiPlus-II GX, EasySolar-II GX and GX Tank 140.
I do not have a Multi RS — should I update anyway?
Yes. While the most important fix affects Multi RS, this release also includes general improvements and support for new sensors you may want to add later.
How do I know if my installation is running in DESS mode?
DESS mode is enabled specifically in grid-tied self-consumption installations that use a Multi RS inverter. If your system was designed to export surplus power or manage dynamic self-consumption, it is very likely using DESS. Your installer can confirm it for you.
Need help with your Victron installation?
If you have questions about the update, want to expand your system with the new Bluetooth sensors or need advice on a new project, our team is happy to help with no commitment.
Request a QuoteMore information in the official Victron Energy release notes and in the range of GX devices available at Shop4Sun.