Statpower TrueCharge 40 Manual
Statpower TrueCharge 40 Manual
TC40+
Owner’s Guide
Xantrex
Truecharge 20+/40+ Amp
Multistage Battery Charger
Truecharge 20+/40+ Amp
Owner’s Guide
About Xantrex
Xantrex Technology Inc. is a world-leading supplier of advanced power electronics and controls with
products from 50 watt mobile units to 1 MW utility-scale systems for wind, solar, batteries, fuel cells,
microturbines, and backup power applications in both grid-connected and standalone systems. Xantrex
products include inverters, battery chargers, programmable power supplies, and variable speed drives that
convert, supply, control, clean, and distribute electrical power.
Trademarks
Truecharge is a trademark of Xantrex International. Xantrex is a registered trademark of Xantrex
International.
Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and product names are the property of their respective owners and
are used herein for identification purposes only.
Notice of Copyright
Truecharge 20+/40+ Owner’s Guide © June 2005 Xantrex International.
Disclaimer
UNLESS SPECIFICALLY AGREED TO IN WRITING, XANTREX TECHNOLOGY INC.
(“XANTREX”)
(a) MAKES NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY OR SUITABILITY OF ANY
TECHNICAL OR OTHER INFORMATION PROVIDED IN ITS MANUALS OR OTHER DOCUMENTATION.
(b) ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER DIRECT,
INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL, WHICH MIGHT ARISE OUT OF THE USE OF SUCH
INFORMATION. THE USE OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION WILL BE ENTIRELY AT THE USER’S RISK.
Date and Revision
June 2005, Revision A
Part number
445-0050-01-01
Contact information
Phone: 1-800-670-0707 (toll free in North America)
Phone: 1-360-925-5097 (outside of North America)
Fax: 1-360-925-5143
Email: CustomerService@xantrex.com
Web: www.xantrex.com
About This Guide
This guide provides information for two products, Truecharge 20+ and
Truecharge 40+. Where information is specific to one product, that product is
referred to by name. Where information applies to both products, they are referred
to collectively as Truecharge+.
Audience
The guide is written for anyone intending to install and operate a Truecharge+
battery charger. Xantrex recommends, however, that the product be installed
by a certified technician or electrician.
Organization
This guide contains four chapters and four appendixes.
Chapter 1, “Introduction” introduces and describes features of the Truecharge+
multistage battery chargers.
Chapter 2, “Installing Truecharge+” lists the materials you receive, provides site
recommendations for installing Truecharge+, and provides the materials and
procedures for its installation.
About This Guide
iv
Contents
Important Safety Instructions
Explosive gas precautions - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–x
Precautions When Working With Batteries - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–x
1 Introduction
Truecharge+ Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2
20/40 Amp Continuous Rating - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2
Simultaneous Three-Battery Bank Charging - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2
Wide Voltage Range Operation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–2
Selector Switches - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3
Extensive Protection Features - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3
Isolated Design - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–3
Fixed Voltage Mode - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–4
Optional Accessories - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–4
Indicator Lights and Settings on the Front Panel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–4
How Truecharge+ Works - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1–6
2 Installing Truecharge+
Materials List - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2
Preparing for Installation - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–2
Location - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–3
Circuits - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–3
Wiring Requirements - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–5
DC Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -2–5
AC Wiring - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -2–6
Tools- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–7
Materials - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–7
Installing Truecharge+ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–8
Mounting - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2–8
Connecting DC Wiring For A Single Battery Or Multiple Batteries - - - - - - - - 2–9
v
Contents
3 Operation
About Charging - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2
Charging Time - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–2
Battery Temperature - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–3
Using A Generator As Source Power - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–4
Indicator Light Activity On The Front Panel - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–4
Charging batteries - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–5
Equalizing Flooded Batteries - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–7
About Equalizing - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–7
Performing An Equalization - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3–8
vi
Contents
Index - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Index–1
vii
viii
Important Safety Instructions
WARNING
This chapter contains important safety and operating
instructions as prescribed by UL and CSA standards for
chargers used in residential, RV, and marine applications.
Read and keep this Owner’s Guide for future reference.
ix
Important Safety Information
x
Important Safety Information
xi
1 Introduction
Truecharge+ Features
Truecharge+ is an advanced battery charger designed specifically for high
performance, deep-cycle lead-acid batteries. It is smaller and lighter than
many other chargers and can be installed or stored in small compartments.
It has AC to DC isolation, a surge protector, and many other safety
features which reduce potential shock and fire hazards.
1–2
Truecharge+ Features
Selector Switches
Truecharge+ has selector switches for charge mode, battery type, and
battery temperature setting.
Charge mode The charge-mode switch allows you to select three-step charge, two-step
charge or 13.5 volt fixed output modes. Refer to Appendix B, “Battery
Charging” for an explanation of the charging algorithms.
Battery type The battery-type switch allows you to set the Truecharge+ for the
charging characteristics of flooded, AGM, and gel batteries.
Temperature The battery temperature switch allows you to set charging characteristics
based on the battery temperature. By setting the switches correctly before
you begin charging your battery, you will be ensuring that it receives the
best possible charge.
Isolated Design
The DC battery charging circuits of Truecharge+ are galvanically isolated
by a transformer from the AC power circuits. This feature reduces the risk
of electric shock and helps to prevent corrosion problems in marine
applications.
1–3
Introduction
Optional Accessories
Battery The remote Battery Temperature Sensor (BTS) automatically adjusts the
Temperature charge according to the temperature of one of the batteries. With a BTS
Sensor installed, the unit provides a more accurate temperature-compensated
charge for the battery to which the sensor is attached.
Remote panel The remote panel allows you to monitor the charging progress of two
batteries or battery banks, the total charge current, and charger status from
a convenient location.
1 2
3
4
6
5
The indicator lights are also used to indicate error codes. See Chapter 4,
“Maintenance and Troubleshooting”
1–5
Introduction
1–6
2 Installing
Truecharge+
Materials List
2–2
Preparing for Installation
Location
Install Truecharge+ in a location that meets the requirements set out in
Table 2-1.
Table 2-1 Physical requirements for a Truecharge+ installation
Condition Description
Dry The unit is intended for use in a dry location. Do not allow water
or other fluids to drip or splash on Truecharge+. Do not mount
the charger in an area subject to rain, spray or splashing bilge
water.
Clean Do not expose Truecharge+ to metal filings or any other form of
conductive contamination. The presence of conductive
contamination can cause damage and void your warranty.
Cool For best performance, the ambient air temperature should be
between 32 °F (0 °C) and 95 °F (30 °C)– the cooler the better. At
higher ambient temperatures, the output current will be
automatically reduced to protect the charger from high internal
temperatures.
Ventilated Allow at least 4 inches (10 cm) of clearance around all sides of
the Truecharge+ for air flow. Ensure that the ventilation
openings on the unit are not obstructed. If mounting in a
compartment, ventilate the compartment with louvres or cut-outs
to prevent overheating.
Safe This battery charger is Ignition Protected, so it can be installed in
areas containing gasoline tanks or fittings which usually require
Ignition Protected equipment. Xantrex recommends, however,
that it is safest not to install electrical equipment in these areas.
Close to AC Avoid the use of extended wire lengths if possible.
junction box
Close to Avoid excessive cable lengths and use the recommended wire
batteries lengths and sizes. Undersized or overly long cables may affect
charging accuracy.
Circuits
Truecharge+ is designed to operate from a 15 amp, 120 VAC (nominal)
branch circuit. The circuit must be protected by a 15 amp circuit breaker.
Any switch in the circuit should be rated for a minimum of 10 amps for
Truecharge20+ installations and 15 amps for Truecharge40+
installations. Refer to Appendix A “Specifications” for the actual current
draw.
2–3
Installing Truecharge+
1
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9
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ype
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O utpu tV olts
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4 7
2–4
Preparing for Installation
Wiring Requirements
Figure 2-2 depicts a typical configuration system for the Truecharge+
showing the AC and DC wiring and protection devices required for a
successful installation.
DC Wiring
The DC wiring must meet the following requirements:
• Length and size
Wire Length
(maximum length Wire Size AWGa
one way)
Use the largest recommended size rather than the minimum for best
performance and safety.
• DC Disconnect
The DC circuit from the battery to the charger must be equipped with
a disconnect and over-current protection device. The device usually
consists of a DC-rated circuit breaker, a “fused disconnect”, or a
separate fuse and disconnect. These devices must be rated for DC
voltage and current. Do not substitute devices rated only for AC
voltage: they may not operate properly.
• Over-current protection
The current rating must be matched to the size of the DC wiring used
and to the charger output, in accordance with the applicable codes.
The following recommended current ratings for the DC fuse or
breaker meet the requirements in ABYC, NEC, and CEC codes.
Truecharge 20+: 25 A
Truecharge 40+: 50 A
2–5
Installing Truecharge+
AC Wiring
Be sure that your AC wiring meets the following requirements before you
install the Truecharge+:
• Input wiring
The AC input wiring for Truecharge+ should be three-conductor
cable, providing a line, neutral, and ground conductor in an outer
jacket. The conductors must be No. 14 AWG or larger. For marine
applications the ABYC requires stranded wire. It stands up to
vibration better than solid wire. For RV applications, the NEC allows
solid wire in multi-conductor cable, but stranded wire will again
withstand vibration better.
• 120 VAC, 15 amp branch circuit
The circuit supplying the Truecharge+ must be rated 120 VAC,
single-phase, 15 amps maximum. It may be either a 15 amp
shorepower connection or a dedicated 15 amp branch circuit from
your 30 amp or 50 amp shorepower connection. In either case the
charger must be protected by a 15 amp breaker or fuse maximum.
• Disconnect devices
Each system requires a method of disconnecting the AC and DC
circuits. If the over-current protection device is a circuit breaker, it
will also serve as the disconnect. If a fuse is used, a disconnect switch
is needed ahead of the fuse.
2–6
Preparing for Installation
Tools
To mount and connect Truecharge+ you need:
p a slot screwdriver with a maximum 3/16 in wide blade for the DC
terminals
p a No. 1 Phillips screwdriver for securing the AC wiring compartment
cover
p a wire stripper
p the manufacturer's recommended crimp tool for any crimp terminals
that are being used
Materials
You need the following material:
p 3 conductor No. 14 AWG AC cable
p Appropriately sized DC cables for each battery, with suitable
connectors at the battery end
p DC fuse and disconnect or circuit breaker for each battery bank
p Mounting hardware (#8 recommended), minimum 4.
p Other means to route and secure AC and DC wiring
2–7
Installing Truecharge+
Installing Truecharge+
Mounting
Mount the Truecharge+ on a vertical surface such as a bulkhead, using the
mounting holes provided. Mounting hardware should be corrosion
resistant and #8 (4 mm). For secure, permanent mounting, use all four
mounting holes. The DC connections should be at the bottom and the AC
connections at the top.
2–8
Installing Truecharge+
WARNING
Truecharge+ cannot be set to deliver different charging
profiles at each output. Therefore all the batteries you are
charging must be the same type, that is, all should be flooded,
or all gel, or all AGM.
10
4
1 3 5 10 20
11
Equalize
Charger Mode
Bulk/Absorption
Bulk/Absorption/Float 13.5V (fixed)
Battery Temperature
Battery Type
5
Flooded
Cold Warm Hot
Gel 14.8/13.9 14.4/13.5 14.0/13.1
AGM 14.6/14.214.2/13.8 13.8/13.4
14.6/13.714.3/13.4 14.0/13.1
Out put Volts
Absorption / Float
TM
12
6
3 -red
2 -red
1 -red
14-black
DC Negative Bus
13 9 8 7
Figure 2-3 DC wiring connection order
2–9
Installing Truecharge+
Note: You may find it helpful to label each cable, associating it with the battery
bank it is connected to. For example, Bank 1 (–), Bank 1 (+), Bank 2 (–) and so on.
3. Install the DC circuit breakers or fuses in the battery positive circuits
close to the battery.
4. Route the wiring to the batteries and to the charger, but don’t connect
it yet. Try to avoid routing wiring through an electrical distribution
panel, battery isolator, or other device that will add additional voltage
drops.
5. Strip 5/16 in (8mm) of insulation from the ends to be connected to the
charger.
6. Fully insert each positive wire into the positive terminal on the
charger (Figure 2-3, 1, 2, 3). Make sure there are no stray wire strands
protruding from the terminal. Tighten the connector (20 in-lbs torque)
and test that the wire is secure. Repeat this step for up to three
batteries or battery banks.
7. Connect the positive cable from the positive wire terminals on the
charger to the battery fuse or breaker, which should be installed on the
battery positive terminals (Figure 2-3, 4, 5, 6).
Leave the DC disconnects or breakers in the Off position until
installation is complete. Leaving them off helps prevent sparking
when you actually make the connections.
2–10
Installing Truecharge+
Connecting to AC Wiring
To connect AC wiring:
1. Make sure the AC source circuit is disconnected by turning off the
breaker feeding the circuit, unplugging from shorepower and
disconnecting any other power sources such as a generator.
2. Plan the routing the AC wiring will follow from the source (usually a
15 amp breaker in an AC distribution panel) to the charger. Measure
the required length of three-conductor No. 14 AWG wire, and cut it.
Allow some extra length for connections and to provide slack.
2–11
Installing Truecharge+
2–12
Installing Truecharge+
1/16 “
CRIMP TOOL
STRIP 5/16”
2–13
Installing Truecharge+
Grounding
2–14
Installing Optional Accessories
2–15
3 Operation
About Charging
This section provides information about
• calculating the charging time
• effect of battery temperature on charging
• indicator light activity during the charging process
• using a generator to run Truecharge+
Charging Time
Formula Charging time will depend on the capacity of your battery and on how
deeply it is discharged.The following equation calculates an approximate
charging time:
where:
Example A Group 27 size battery rated at 82 amp-hours is 40% discharged, that is,
it has a DOD = 40. Charging time with a Truecharge 20+ unit is
calculated as follows:
3–2
About Charging
Battery Temperature
Temperature Selecting the correct temperature setting selects the appropriate charging
switch voltage to compensate for battery temperature.
BatteryT em perature
SelectorS w itch
COLD
(below50°F/10°C)
BatteryT
emperature
WARM
(50°F/10°Cto80°F/27°C)
C old W arm H ot
14.8/13.9 14.4/13.5 14.0/13.1
14.6/14.2 14.2/13.8 1
3.8
/13
.4
14.6/13.7 14.3/13.4 14.0/13.1
Output Volts HOT
Absorption/ Float (above80°F/27°C)
3–3
Operation
3–4
Charging batteries
Charging batteries
Before you start Before you start to charge batteries read the “Important Safety
Instructions” on page ix and take all safety precautions when working
with batteries.
To charge your batteries:
1. If possible, disconnect all loads from the battery, by removing battery
cables, by opening a disconnect switch, or by switching loads off.
The charger detects a battery is fully charged when its charging
current drops below a preset limit. The presence of electrical loads on
the battery may interfere with this detection method. A timer-based
charge termination feature acts as a backup, but the charging current-
based method is preferable.
3–5
Operation
2. Set the Battery Type selector switch according to the table below.
If temperatures fluctuate near the batteries, set this switch each time
you charge the batteries.
If your batteries are in different locations with different temperature
ranges, set the switch to Hot or to the temperature of the warmest
location.
3–6
Equalizing Flooded Batteries
After charging After charging is complete Truecharge+ enters into one of these modes:
Float mode When the Ready indicator light lights, the battery is fully
charged and ready for use. If you selected Bulk/Absorption/Float mode,
Truecharge+ is in Float mode and will maintain the battery’s charge.
Monitor mode If you selected Bulk/Absorption mode, the Ready
indicator light shows the charger is now in Monitor mode and is checking
battery voltage and elapsed time since the last charge cycle.
Recharging With either charging mode, the Truecharge+ will begin a charging cycle
21 days after the last cycle, or when battery voltage drops to below 12.5
VDC for 15 minutes or if AC power is disconnected and reconnected.
3–7
Operation
Battery type Truecharge+ equalizes only flooded lead-acid batteries. It does not
equalize sealed lead-acid batteries since they can be damaged by this
process. If the battery type selector is set for Gel or AGM, and you try to
equalize them, the indicator lights on the front panel flash but
Truecharge+ does not enter equalization mode.
Duration Equalization is manually terminated when the specific gravity in each cell
is about 1.265 and remains constant at that level. Truecharge+
automatically exits the equalization mode after six hours, whatever the
specific gravity, in the event you cannot terminate the equalization
yourself.
Battery charge Equalization is only performed on fully-charged batteries. If they are not
state charged, the first part of the process is similar to the absorption charge
and ensures the battery is fully charged.
Recommended Xantrex recommends that you run a normal charge cycle on the batteries
before you equalize them. While Truecharge+ will charge discharged
batteries as part of the equalization cycle, it does not indicate when the
charging has finished and the equalization begins. It is a recommended
practice to only equalize batteries which are fully charged.
Performing An Equalization
3–8
Equalizing Flooded Batteries
Important Turn off or disconnect all loads on the battery during equalization. The
voltage applied to the battery during equalization may be above the safe
levels for some loads. Be sure to check battery electrolyte before and after
equalization. Fill only with distilled water.
To equalize your batteries:
1. Using a toothpick or other small object with a fine point such as a
paper clip or pen-point, press the recessed Equalize button on the
control panel below the Charging and Ready indicator lights. Press
and hold for about 5 seconds until both the Charging and Ready
indicator lights illuminate. The charger is now in equalization mode.
2. Monitor the specific gravity of each cell of the battery during
equalization with a battery hydrometer.
Equalization is complete when the specific gravity of each cell of the
battery remains constant. Most lead-acid batteries have a specific
gravity of approximately 1.265 when fully charged.
3. To terminate the equalization charge when the battery reaches the
target specific gravity, momentarily press the equalization button. The
charger will go to float mode for three-stage charging or monitor
mode for two-step charging.
4. If the specific gravity is still rising when the charger automatically
exits equalization to float mode after 6 hours, you can initiate further
equalization by pressing the Equalize button for five seconds.
5. When equalization has finished, check the battery electrolyte level. If
necessary, refill with distilled water only.
3–9
3–10
4 Maintenance and
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
Indicator Light Flashing Sequences
Table 4-1 Indicator light sequences on Truecharge+
Display Condition
Charging indicator light is on, all Battery is not detected
indicator lights light in sequence
repeatedly
Charging indicator light blinks, all The battery voltage is greater than
others are off 15.5 VDC
Highest charging current indicator Unit is in over-temperature or under-
light blinks, all others are off temperature shutdown
4–2
Troubleshooting
Display Condition
Middle charging current indicator Truecharge+ is in over-temperature
light blinks, all others are off shutdown due to excessive battery
temperature. This shutdown only occurs
if the BTS is installed.
4–3
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Typical Problems
This section lists typical problems you may have with the Truecharge+,
suggests their causes, then offers possible solutions to the problems.
Symptom Indicator lights do not turn on, or remain on, when charger is
connected to an AC receptacle.
Possible Cause Solution
4–4
Troubleshooting
Symptom Charging light blinks but does not come on steadily. Other
indicator lights are off.
4–5
A Specifications
Physical Specifications
Electrical Specifications
Electrical Specifications
Number of battery bank outputs 3, diode isolated (no independent regulation)
Nominal battery voltage 12 VDC
Normal operating output range 0 – 16 VDC
Rated DC output current (total) Truecharge 20+ Truecharge 40+
20 ADC 40 ADC
Charge modes Switch settings for three-step, two-step, or fixed
voltage
Battery type compensation Switch settings for Flooded, Gel, and AGM
batteries
Battery temperature Charge voltage is battery-temperature compensated
compensation manually (switch settings) for Cold (10 °C/ 50 °F),
Warm (10–27 °C/50–80 °F) and
Hot (>27 °C/80 °F) ranges, or automatically with
optional remote battery temperature sensor
A–2
Electrical Specifications
Electrical Specifications
A–3
Specifications
AC Input Specifications
Protection Features
Protection features
Battery reverse polarity Internal fuses for each output, non-user replaceable
Safe non-operating 24 VDC maximum
battery voltage
Over-voltage limits Will not start charging if any battery voltage is greater than
15.0 VDC
Will not continue charging if any battery voltage is greater than
16.0 VDC
Output current limit Truecharge 20+ Truecharge 40+
20.5 – 22.5 Adc 41.0 – 44.0 Adc
A–4
Approvals
Protection features
Approvals
A–5
A–6
B Battery Charging
Charging Algorithms
Battery Type
Truecharge+ charges lead-acid flooded, gel, and AGM (absorbed glass
mat) batteries.
Flooded “Flooded” batteries have removable battery caps for refilling with
distilled water and testing the electrolyte.
Gel The sealed gel battery has its electrolyte is in the form of a gel rather than
a liquid and does not require topping up. Battery caps are not removable.
AGM AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries are similar to gel batteries except the
electrolyte is absorbed into a fibreglass matting.
B–2
Charging Algorithms
Bulk Charge In the first stage, known as the bulk charge, Truecharge+ delivers its full-
rated output current.This constant current is delivered to the batteries until
the battery voltage approaches its absorption voltage—typically around
14.4 volts for 12 volt batteries. The bulk charge stage restores about 75%
of the battery’s charge.
Absorption During the absorption charge, the charging voltage is held constant near
Charge the gassing voltage, and the battery gradually reduces the charging current
it demands as it attains full charge. Once the current drops below 4 Adc
for three minutes, the charger either exits to Float for gel and AGM
batteries or charges flooded batteries for one more hour.
This extended one-hour charge ensures that the batteries are fully topped
up and is recommended by the flooded battery manufacturers.
Float Charge The float charge is a maintenance mode in which the output voltage of the
charger is reduced to a lower level, typically about 13.5 volts to maintain
the battery’s charge without losing electrolyte through gassing. Unlike
many standalone chargers, Truecharge+ can be left connected to your
battery indefinitely without risk of overcharging.
In the float mode, the charger will initiate a new charge cycle under any of
these conditions:
• AC power is disconnected and reconnected
• any battery drops below 12.5 VDC for 15 minutes
• 21 days have passed from the time the charger completed Absorption.
The chart in Figure B-1 shows the three-stage charging profile.
B–3
Battery Charging
Constant current
at maximum
charge rate
Load current on demand
DC Current
Time
Equalization Charge
Two-Stage Charging
Difference from In a two-stage charge, the charger finishes the Absorption charge but does
three-stage not go to Float mode because some battery manufacturers advise against
floating their batteries. The Truecharge+ goes into a monitoring mode
instead where the charger monitors the batteries but does not charge or
float them.
A new charge cycle will be initiated under the same conditions as for
three-step charging.
B–4
C Battery
Maintenance
Maintenance Guidelines
Electrolyte At a minimum, check the level of the electrolyte in each battery cell once
a month (for flooded batteries). It should be above the top of the plates,
but not completely full. Most batteries have a plastic cup that just touches
the electrolyte when the cell is full. Don’t overfill the batteries, or the
electrolyte will spill out when the batteries are being charged. Refill the
batteries with distilled water only—“spring” water and regular tap water
may have high mineral levels. These can poison the battery chemistry and
reduce battery life and should not be used.
Battery It is also good to periodically check the battery connections for tightness
connections and corrosion. If you find any corrosion, disconnect power from
Truecharge+, disconnect the cables, and carefully clean them with a mild
solution of baking soda and water. Ensure that all caps are on tight so
solution doesn’t enter the battery. Rinse the top of the battery with clean
water when you have finished.
To reduce the amount of corrosion on the battery terminals, coat them
with anti-corrosion grease or liquid neoprene (liquid electrical tape) after
re-assembly. This is available from automotive parts stores or battery
suppliers. Do not apply anything between the terminal and the cable lugs.
The connection should be metal to metal. Apply the protective material
only after the bolts have been tightened.
Dirty batteries can leak current and tend to run warmer. Cleaning batteries
when necessary is easy and safe when you follow the instructions below.
C–2
Preparation for Cleaning Batteries
Clothing
Appropriate clothing could include old clothes, rubber boots, or old
shoes. Battery acid is highly corrosive, so wear something you can live
without just in case you splash some on yourself. Be sure to wear rubber
gloves and eye protection.
Tools
p Adjustable wrench or appropriately sized sockets and ratchet for
battery terminals
p Torque wrench
p Soft-bristled brush (a discarded toothbrush works fine)
p 6 inch scrub brush
p Inexpensive ½ inch chip brush or soldering brush
Equipment
p Eye protection
p Rubber gloves
p Water hose with spray nozzle or five gallon watering bucket
p Empty spray bottle
Supplies
p Baking soda. (Always keep on hand in the event of a spill.)
p Hand cleaner or soap
p Towel
p After reattaching cables: anti-corrosion grease (available at auto, RV,
and marine stores)
C–3
Battery Maintenance
WARNING
Review the “Important Safety Instructions” on page ix before
you begin.
C–4
Maintaining and Cleaning
Reconnect the battery cable terminals to the battery lugs and tighten to
approximately 10–15 foot-pounds using the torque wrench. If you do not
have a torque wrench, use an appropriate tool to tighten the bolts
reasonably snug. Do not over-tighten.
After tightening the cables, evenly coat all the exposed metal surfaces of
the battery terminals and lugs with liquid neoprene. This will cure to form
an airtight protective layer. If liquid neoprene is not available, use a light
coating of anti-corrosion grease or other sealant. Do not let anything
come between the mating surfaces of the lugs and terminals.
Cables
Inspect all battery cables for missing or damaged insulation or loose
connections. Inspect any openings that the cables pass through. All such
openings must be equipped with a rubber grommet or conduit to prevent
chafing on the cable. If necessary, replace worn grommets. If the cable
insulation is worn, replace the cable.
C–5
C–6
D Product and
System
Information
Warranty
What does this warranty cover? This Limited Warranty is provided
by Xantrex Technology, Inc. ("Xantrex") and covers defects in
workmanship and materials in your Xantrex Truecharge 20+ and
Truecharge 40+. This warranty lasts for a Warranty Period of 12 months
from the date of purchase at point of sale to you, the original end user
customer.
This Limited Warranty is transferable to subsequent owners but only for
the unexpired portion of the Warranty Period.
What will Xantrex do? Xantrex will, at its option, repair or replace
the defective product free of charge, provided that you notify Xantrex of
the product defect within the Warranty Period, and provided that Xantrex
through inspection establishes the existence of such a defect and that it is
covered by this Limited Warranty.
Xantrex will, at its option, use new and/or reconditioned parts in
performing warranty repair and building replacement products. Xantrex
reserves the right to use parts or products of original or improved design
in the repair or replacement. If Xantrex repairs or replaces a product, its
warranty continues for the remaining portion of the original Warranty
Period or 90 days from the date of the return shipment to the customer,
whichever is greater. All replaced products and all parts removed from
repaired products become the property of Xantrex.
Xantrex covers both parts and labor necessary to repair the product, and
return shipment to the customer via a Xantrex-selected non-expedited
surface freight within the contiguous United States and Canada. Alaska
and Hawaii are excluded. Contact Xantrex Customer Service for details
on freight policy for return shipments outside of the contiguous United
States and Canada.
How do you get service? If your product requires troubleshooting or
warranty service, contact your merchant. If you are unable to contact your
merchant, or the merchant is unable to provide service, contact Xantrex
directly at:
D–2
Warranty
Direct returns may be performed according to the Xantrex Return
Material Authorization Policy described in your product manual. For
some products, Xantrex maintains a network of regional Authorized
Service Centers. Call Xantrex or check our website to see if your product
can be repaired at one of these facilities.
In any warranty claim, dated proof of purchase must accompany the
product and the product must not have been disassembled or modified
without prior written authorization by Xantrex.
Proof of purchase may be in any one of the following forms:
• The dated purchase receipt from the original purchase of the product
at point of sale to the end user, or
• The dated dealer invoice or purchase receipt showing original
equipment manufacturer (OEM) status, or
• The dated invoice or purchase receipt showing the product exchanged
under warranty
What does this warranty not cover? This Limited Warranty does not
cover normal wear and tear of the product or costs related to the removal,
installation, or troubleshooting of the customer's electrical systems. This
warranty does not apply to and Xantrex will not be responsible for any
defect in or damage to:
a) the product if it has been misused, neglected, improperly
installed, physically damaged or altered, either internally or
externally, or damaged from improper use or use in an unsuitable
environment;
b) the product if it has been subjected to fire, water, generalized cor-
rosion, biological infestations, or input voltage that creates oper-
ating conditions beyond the maximum or minimum limits listed
in the Xantrex product specifications including high input voltage
from generators and lightning strikes;
c) the product if repairs have been done to it other than by Xantrex
or its authorized service centers (hereafter "ASCs");
d) the product if it is used as a component part of a product
expressly warranted by another manufacturer;
e) the product if its original identification (trade-mark, serial num-
ber) markings have been defaced, altered, or removed.
D–3
Product and System Information
DISCLAIMER
Product
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY PROVIDED BY
XANTREX IN CONNECTION WITH YOUR XANTREX PRODUCT AND IS, WHERE
PERMITTED BY LAW, IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, CONDITIONS,
GUARANTEES, REPRESENTATIONS, OBLIGATIONS AND LIABILITIES, EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE IN CONNECTION WITH THE PRODUCT,
HOWEVER ARISING (WHETHER BY CONTRACT, TORT, NEGLIGENCE, PRINCIPLES OF
MANUFACTURER'S LIABILITY, OPERATION OF LAW, CONDUCT, STATEMENT OR
OTHERWISE), INCLUDING WITHOUT RESTRICTION ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OR
CONDITION OF QUALITY, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE TO THE EXTENT REQUIRED UNDER APPLICABLE LAW TO
APPLY TO THE PRODUCT SHALL BE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE PERIOD
STIPULATED UNDER THIS LIMITED WARRANTY.
IN NO EVENT WILL XANTREX BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT,
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, LOSSES, COSTS OR EXPENSES
HOWEVER ARISING WHETHER IN CONTRACT OR TORT INCLUDING WITHOUT
RESTRICTION ANY ECONOMIC LOSSES OF ANY KIND, ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE TO
PROPERTY, ANY PERSONAL INJURY, ANY DAMAGE OR INJURY ARISING FROM OR AS
A RESULT OF MISUSE OR ABUSE, OR THE INCORRECT INSTALLATION, INTEGRATION
OR OPERATION OF THE PRODUCT.
Exclusions
If this product is a consumer product, federal law does not allow an
exclusion of implied warranties. To the extent you are entitled to implied
warranties under federal law, to the extent permitted by applicable law
they are limited to the duration of this Limited Warranty. Some states and
provinces do not allow limitations or exclusions on implied warranties or
on the duration of an implied warranty or on the limitation or exclusion of
incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation(s) or
exclusion(s) may not apply to you. This Limited Warranty gives you
specific legal rights. You may have other rights which may vary from
state to state or province to province.
D–4
Return Material Authorization Policy
Return Procedure
1. Package the unit safely, preferably using the original box and packing
materials. Please ensure that your product is shipped fully insured in
the original packaging or equivalent. This warranty will not apply
where the product is damaged due to improper packaging.
2. Include the following:
• The RMA number supplied by Xantrex Technology Inc. clearly
marked on the outside of the box.
• A return address where the unit can be shipped. Post office boxes are
not acceptable.
• A contact telephone number where you can be reached during work
hours
• A brief description of the problem
3. Ship the unit prepaid to the address provided by your Xantrex
customer service representative.
If you are returning a product from outside of the USA or Canada
In addition to the above, you MUST include return freight funds and are
fully responsible for all documents, duties, tariffs, and deposits.
D–5
Product and System Information
If you are returning a product to a Xantrex Authorized Service
Center (ASC) A Xantrex return material authorization (RMA) number
is not required. However, you must contact the ASC prior to returning the
product or presenting the unit to verify any return procedures that may
apply to that particular facility.
D–6
Information about your Truecharge+
Information about your Truecharge+
Please record the following information when you unpack your
Truecharge+unit.
:
r Model Number
r Serial Number
r Purchased From
r Purchase Date
D–7
Product and System Information
D–8
Index
A charging batteries, procedure for 3–5
absorption charge, battery activity charging current 1–2
during B–3 charging indicator light, significance of
AC input specifications A–4 3–4
AC wiring requirements 2–6 charging time, calculating 3–2
AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries B–2 charging too slow 4–5
AGM batteries, selector switch for 1–3 charging, effect of battery temperature
anti-corrosion grease C–2 sensor on 2–15
circuit requirements 2–3
continuous rating 1–2
B current, reduction of in high ambient
baking soda C–3 temperatures A–5
batteries Customer Service
AGM (absorbed glass mat) B–2 email D–2
first aid when working with 1–x fax number D–2
maintenance guidelines C–2 phone number D–2
precautions when working with 1–x
battery not detected by charger 4–4
battery temperature sensor 2–14
D
battery temperature, importance of in DC disconnect device 2–5
charging 3–3 DC wiring requirements 2–7
battery type selector switch 1–3 distilled water C–2
battery types
description of B–2 E
suitable for equalization 3–8 electric specifications A–2
battery voltage too high 4–5 electrolyte level, checking for C–2
bulk charge, battery activity during B–3 email, contacting Customer Service by
D–2
C
charge mode selector switch 1–3
charging algorithm, three stage B–2
Index
L
liquid neoprene C–5
Index–2
Index
T
telephone number for Customer Service D–2
temperature switch
description of 1–3
setting for charging 3–3
temperature, effect of in charging 3–3
terminals and lugs, maintenance of C–4
three-battery charging 1–2
three-stage charging algorithm
explanation B–2
three-stage charging profile
(diagram) B–4
tools, required for installation 2–7
troubleshooting, use of indicator lights in 4–2
two-stage charging, difference from three-stage B–
4
V
voltage range when charging 1–2
W
warranty
terms and conditions D–2
wiring order for installation (figure) 2–9
Index–3
Xantrex Technology Inc.
Toll free 1 800 670 0707
Direct 1 360 925 5097
Fax 1 360 925 5143
CustomerService@xantrex.com
www.xantrex.com