If you’re into camping, touring, or overlanding, chances are you run accessories like fridges, lights, or inverters when your vehicle isn’t running. To keep these powered without draining your main battery, many adventurers install a dual battery system. But how do you keep that second battery charged safely?
That’s where a dual battery charger (also known as a DC-DC charger) comes in.
A dual battery charger is a smart device that charges your secondary or auxiliary battery while protecting your starter battery. It ensures your second battery gets the correct charge, even with today’s smart alternators or when using solar.
HOW DOES A DUAL BATTERY CHARGER WORK?
Modern vehicles often come with smart alternators, but they don’t always deliver high enough voltage to fully charge auxiliary batteries.
A DC-DC charger solves this problem by:
- Drawing power from your vehicle’s alternator or solar panels
- Delivering the correct charge for your auxiliary battery type (AGM, Gel, Calcium, or Lithium)
- Keeping your starter battery safe from over-discharge so you can always start your vehicle
Whether you’re idling in camp or cruising on the highway, a DC-DC charger ensures your auxiliary battery gets the charge it needs.
WHY DO YOU NEED A DUAL BATTERY CHARGER?
- Maintain battery health - Overcharging or undercharging a battery reduces its lifespan. A dual battery charger ensures your auxiliary battery is always charged to the right level, extending its life.
- Compatible with modern vehicles - Because smart alternators don’t always deliver enough power, a DC-DC charger guarantees a full charge—even in the latest vehicles, including hybrids and PHEVs.
- Charge with solar - Many REDARC BCDC Dual Battery Chargers include an advanced MPPT solar regulator and Green Power Priority™. This allows you to charge via solar for efficient, off-grid charging whether you’re driving or parked at camp.
- Protect your starter battery - Your starter battery is built for one job—starting the engine. A DC-DC charger keeps it separate from your auxiliary system, so your accessories never drain the power you need to get moving.
WHY CHOOSE A REDARC BCDC DUAL BATTERY CHARGER?
Not all DC-DC chargers are the same. REDARC’s BCDC range is built specifically for tough conditions, trusted by 4WD owners, vanlifers, and trades professionals across the world.
Key features include:
- Compact, fully sealed design to withstand heat, water, dust, and vibration (note that there are exceptions to this including the BCDC Alpha R and BCDC1212S)
- Works with all battery types, including lithium (LiFePO4)
- Ability to charge from both alternator and solar at the same time with Green Power Priority™
- Integrated MPPT solar regulator for maximum solar efficiency
Whether you’re powering an off-grid campsite, a worksite, or a touring setup, the REDARC BCDC range delivers reliable charging and protection for your batteries.
See How to Choose the Right REDARC BCDC Dual Battery Charger for more detail.
If you rely on a second battery for power, a dual battery charger is essential. It protects both your auxiliary and starter batteries, maximizes battery life, and ensures your gear is always ready to go.
The REDARC BCDC range has set the standard for performance and reliability in even the toughest conditions.
To learn more, explore the REDARC BCDC Classic and Alpha ranges or speak with a REDARC dealer today.
