Choosing the right charging solution with so many different options available can make it tricky to know what solution is right for your setup and how you want to travel. We’ve broken down the three most popular DCDC charging solutions for dual battery systems to give you a better idea of which charger would best fit with your setup.
What is a battery isolator and do you need one?
A battery isolator is the simplest solution for ensuring your starter battery doesn’t get drained while the auxiliary battery powers accessories. An isolator is a cost-effective solution for a dual battery system, charging the second battery while the vehicle is running and isolating it when the car is off.
How a battery isolator works in a dual battery system
Battery isolators sense battery voltage to know when the vehicle’s engine is running, charging the starter battery via the alternator. When a certain voltage is reached, the isolator will connect and start charging the secondary battery.
When the engine is turned off, the isolator will disengage the auxiliary battery, isolating the starter and second battery so that there is no risk of the second battery draining the car’s starter battery.
When a battery isolator is the best dual battery charging solution
REDARC’s SBI or Smart Start Dual Battery Isolators, are generally recommended for older vehicles (generally before 2015) with a fixed voltage alternator. A battery isolator is great to set up a dual battery system in an older vehicle on a budget.
Note: If you plan to install a REDARC DCDC dual battery charger, you do not need to purchase an isolator because our BCDC charger has an in-built smart isolator.
Perfect for: older vehicles with fixed voltage alternators, budget builds & under-bonnet installation.
What is a DC to DC Battery Charger?
A DCDC battery charger is a higher-tech version of a battery isolator. It’s suitable for dual battery systems in cars newer than 2015 that have variable voltage alternators and can often receive charge from solar.
A sophisticated DCDC battery charger like REDARC’s BCDC charger can detect the type of auxiliary battery that is connected to charge and supply optimal charge voltage to charge the battery to 100% while also optimising battery health and lifespan. A DC-DC battery charger can better overcome voltage drops over longer distances, for example, when the auxiliary batteries are installed in the canopy.
If you want a 12V dual battery setup that can charge via solar, you’ll need a DC-to-DC charger. REDARC’s BCDC chargers can use power from solar or the vehicle’s alternator. The in-built Green Power Priority™ in the REDARC BCDC range ensures that incoming solar power is used ahead of DC power, reducing the load on the vehicle’s alternator. Depending on where you want to install a BCDC charger, there are three models available – the Classic, Core and the Alpha. Let’s take a closer look at all three models, including why these may be preferable to a simple battery isolator.
Guide to REDARC’s DCDC chargers
BCDC Classic
The BCDC Classic is a dual battery charger (and isolator) for modern vehicles that can be installed inside the engine bay. The electrics are sealed and protected against dust, dirt, water, heat and vibrations. It’s a charger that can handle anything your trip can throw at it and not miss a beat.
The BCDC Classic can be installed with a second battery under the bonnet, close to your alternator which prevents any voltage drop which makes it an ideal choice for efficient and safe charging.
Perfect for: Under-bonnet installation or installation anywhere with exposure to dirt, dust, water, heat or harsh vibrations in newer vehicles with variable voltage alternators. Can take solar input.
BCDC Core
If you’re planning to install your charger into a canopy or the cabin of your vehicle, the BCDC Core could be a great option. It’s perfect for tucking away in a side panel, hiding behind seats or mounting on the power wall of your canopy where it won’t be subjected to extreme heat, water or dust.
Perfect for: Canopy or in-cabin installation in newer vehicles with variable voltage alternators. Can use solar input.
BCDC Alpha
The BCDC Alpha range is the latest innovation in REDARC’s range of battery chargers.
Similar to the BCDC Classic, the BCDC Alpha is built for the harshest conditions though where it differs is the BCDC Alpha’s ability to provide instant insight into what your battery is doing via RedVision app compatibility.
Perfect for: Under bonnet installations where monitoring your battery system is important.
If you’re wanting to take your setup to the next level, the BCDC Alpha R is perfect for in cabin or canopy installations and comes with REDARC’s Smart Battery Monitor to take your battery system monitoring to the next level.
Perfect for: Canopy or in-cabin installations where monitoring your battery system is important.
Battery Management System
A battery management system is a more sophisticated dual battery charging option than a DC-to-DC charger. As well as isolating the starter battery and charging the auxiliary battery, a battery management system can provide visibility and control over the entire dual battery setup. REDARC’s Manager30 Battery Management System includes DC to DC battery charging, 240V charging (from mains power), battery isolation, a load disconnect controller, a solar regulator, and remote monitoring all in a single unit.
With the remote monitoring screen, you can always see exactly how much power is going in out and out of the battery setup, as well as how many days’ worth of power you’ve got left.
Similar to REDARC’s DCDC battery chargers, the Manager30 battery management system also has Green Power Priority. While many chargers on the market only charge from either the vehicle alternator or from solar, the Manager30 (and our DCDC chargers) can take both and will always choose solar first when it is available.
Load disconnect control allows you to make sure your batteries are not over-discharged by your appliances and devices. The Manager30 will warn you when the battery is nearly flat. If you miss this warning, the Manager30 will disconnect non-critical loads to keep your batteries at a safe level of charge.
Built-in AC charging input means that whether you’re parked at home or at a powered campsite, you can plug your battery management system into mains power and top the batteries up. This allows you to keep batteries healthy and charged while your vehicle is in storage waiting for your next trip.
If you’re looking for something with a higher charge rate that’s perfect for bigger battery setups - the Manager Alpha range is the way to go. Available in 50A, 75A and 100A variables, the Manager Alpha is the ultimate battery management solution.
Perfect for: Canopy, in-cabin, camper trailer & caravan installations, those who want increased monitoring & an all-in-one solution
Choose REDARC’s DCDC Chargers with In-built Isolators
If you want to build your dual battery system look no further than REDARC’s dual battery charging options. A battery isolator provides a budget build for a dual battery setup in an older vehicle, while the BCDC Classic, Core and Alpha support variable voltage in modern vehicles. Our battery chargers have in-built smart isolators so you no longer need an additional isolator to build your perfect power system.
FAQ
Do I need an isolator with a DC-DC charger?
If you choose REDARC’S BCDC Classic, Core or Alpha then you will not need an isolator. These chargers are built with a smart isolator that can change whether your alternator is charging your starter or auxiliary battery depending on their voltage. This ensures the starter battery is not drained when the engine is off.
What is the difference between battery isolator and DCDC?
A battery isolator acts as a switch between your starter and auxiliary battery. Whereas, the DCDC charger can isolate and charge the secondary battery to the correct charge. Some DCDC chargers have in-built smart isolators, which means you do not need to purchase an isolator
What is the disadvantage of a battery isolator?
A disadvantage of a battery isolator is that it relies on the output of the alternator, which may supply the incorrect voltage to charge an auxiliary battery.
