Why is my BCDC Alpha flashing the H LED?

This information is applicable to the following BCDC Alpha chargers:

• BCDC Alpha 25A (BCDC12025B) 
• BCDC Alpha 50A (BCDC12050B)

WHAT DOES THIS LOOK LIKE? 

The BCDC Alpha H status LED and Control Button LED will flash.  

This fault condition is a hard fault and therefore the Control Button LED will be on while the H status LED flashes. 

WHAT DOES THE FLASHING H LED MEAN?

This fault indicates that the BCDC Alpha has detected an issue with the wiring and/or installation. 

WILL THE BCDC ALPHA STILL CHARGE MY BATTERY IN THIS CONDITION? 

In this fault condition, being a hard fault, the BCDC Alpha will cease charging. 

WHAT CAN CAUSE THIS FAULT MODE?

• Reverse Polarity power supply 
• Loose or poor ground to the BCDC Alpha 

HOW TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FLASHING H LED?

To determine the cause of this condition, it will require diagnostic testing. REDARC recommends seeking the support of an installer where possible, however please see below a list of the common causes and repairs.

A) REVERSE POLARITY

Upon initial installation, if the auxiliary battery terminals (+ and -) are wired to the BCDC Alpha in reverse polarity. 

Things to check:

1. Ensure wiring to BCDC Alpha is correct. 
2. If wiring is incorrect, rectify wiring. 
3. Refer to step B. 

B) LOOSE CONNECTION AT THE START BATTERY TERMINAL/FUSE HOLDER OR LOOSE GROUND CONNECTION AT THE BCDC

Things to check:

1. Ensure connection points are clean, not damaged or loose. 
2. Remove the battery terminal and ensure a clean surface area is provided for the terminal. 
3. Inspect the ground wire (-) to ensure it has a suitable ground connection, including ensuring the terminal is attached to bare metal (an unpainted surface). 
4. Ensure each crimp connection is strong, a small tug on each wire can confirm this. 
5. Refer to step C. 

C) CARRY OUT POWER CYCLE PROCEDURE

Once steps A and B have been completed, it's advisable to carry out a full power cycle to reset the BCDC Alpha.  

This is achieved by following the disconnection and reconnection procedure listed below: 

DISCONNECT PROCEDURE

1. Start Battery Fuse 
2. Auxiliary Battery Fuse  
3. Solar 
4. Start Battery 
5. Auxiliary Battery 
6. Ground 
7. Vehicle Ignition 
8. Battery Temperature Sensor 

RECONNECT PROCEDURE

After being disconnected for 5 minutes, reconnect the BCDC in the following order: 

1. Battery Temperature Sensor 
   
2. Vehicle Ignition 
   
3. Ground 
   
4. Auxiliary battery 
   
5. Start battery 
   
6. Solar 
   
7. Auxiliary Battery Fuse 
   
8. Start Battery Fuse  
   
9. Re-check operation 
   

If problem persists, contact REDARC Technical Support.