Victron Energy Blue Smart IP65 12V 10A Battery Charger Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation of your Victron Energy Blue Smart IP65 12V 10A Battery Charger. This professional charger is designed for a wide range of battery types, including lead-acid (flooded, AGM, GEL) and Lithium-ion (LiFePO4) batteries, and is suitable for various vehicles and devices.

The charger features built-in Bluetooth for monitoring and configuration via the VictronConnect app, ensuring optimal battery health and performance.

2. Key Features

• Built-in Bluetooth: Monitor voltage, current, and change settings wirelessly via the VictronConnect app.
• High Efficiency: Up to 94% efficiency, generating significantly less heat compared to industry standards.
• Multi-Stage Charging: Features a 7-step smart charge algorithm for optimal battery care (Bulk, Absorption, Float, Storage, Recondition, Li-ion).
• Battery Recovery: Capable of recovering fully discharged 'dead' batteries.
• Power Supply Mode: Can power DC loads directly without a battery.
• IP65 Rated: Splash-resistant, dust-resistant, and chemical-resistant for versatile use in workshops, motor vehicles, and marine environments.
• Flexible Connection: Includes easy-to-use alligator clips and M8 eyelets for permanent connection.

3. What's in the Box

The Victron Energy Blue Smart IP65 12V 10A Battery Charger package includes the following components:

• Victron Energy Blue Smart IP65 12V 10A Battery Charger unit
• Power Cable (AC input)
• Battery Clamps (alligator clips)
• M8 Eyelets (for permanent battery connection)

Figure 1: Included components of the Victron Energy Blue Smart IP65 Charger.

4. Setup and Installation

4.1 Connecting to the Battery

1. Ensure the charger is disconnected from the AC power outlet.
2. Choose your preferred battery connection method:
• Alligator Clips: For temporary connections. Connect the red (+) clip to the positive battery terminal and the black (-) clip to the negative battery terminal.
• M8 Eyelets: For permanent installations. Securely attach the red (+) eyelet to the positive battery terminal and the black (-) eyelet to the negative battery terminal.
3. Ensure all connections are secure and free from corrosion.

4.2 Powering the Charger

1. After connecting to the battery, plug the charger's AC power cable into a suitable wall outlet (120VAC).
2. The charger will automatically detect the battery voltage and begin the charging process according to its default settings or the last configured settings via the VictronConnect app.

4.3 Bluetooth Connection (VictronConnect App)

The charger features built-in Bluetooth for advanced monitoring and configuration. Download the VictronConnect app from your device's app store.

Figure 2: VictronConnect App Interface and Download Options.

1. Open the VictronConnect app on your smartphone or tablet.
2. The app will scan for nearby Victron devices. Select your Blue Smart IP65 charger from the device list.
3. If prompted, enter the default PIN code (usually 000000 or found on the product label).
4. Once connected, you can view real-time status, historical data, and customize charging settings.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Charging Modes

The charger offers various modes to suit different battery types and conditions. These can be selected via the 'MODE' button on the charger or through the VictronConnect app.

Figure 3: Blue Smart IP65 Charging Modes and Features.

• Li-ion: Charges all 12.8V LiFePO4 Batteries. Can recharge from 0V in case of BMS low voltage protection.
• Recondition: Helps bring under-charged or sulfated lead-acid batteries back to optimal state.
• High [14.7V]: Recommended for specific flooded lead batteries. Use with care.
• Normal [14.4V]: Recommended for flooded, GEL, and AGM starter and deep cycle batteries.

5.2 Charging Stages

The charger employs a smart 7-step charging algorithm:

• Bulk: Charges with maximum current until absorption voltage is reached.
• Absorption: Battery charging with a set voltage/timer, depending on charge mode.
• Float: Charges with lowered voltage, keeping batteries full while passing through power to loads.
• Storage: Keeps charged batteries healthy by reducing the charge voltage to limit tail current, corrosion, and gassing.

5.3 Power Supply Mode

The charger can function as a power supply, providing a stable DC voltage to power loads directly without a battery. This mode can be activated via the VictronConnect app.

5.4 Using the VictronConnect App

The VictronConnect app provides comprehensive control and monitoring capabilities:

• Status: View real-time voltage, current, and charging stage.
• Graph: Visualize charging data over time.
• History: Access detailed records of past charging cycles, including duration, charged Ah, and any interruptions.
• Settings: Customize battery presets, charge current, absorption voltage, float voltage, storage voltage, recondition voltage, temperature compensation, and low temperature cut-off.
• Night Mode: Reduce output current and keep the fan off for silent operation during preset hours.

6. Maintenance

• Regularly inspect the charger, cables, and battery connections for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion.
• Keep the charger clean and free from dust and debris. Use a dry cloth for cleaning.
• Ensure the charger is operated in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
• For lead-acid batteries, periodically check electrolyte levels (if applicable) and top up with distilled water as needed.

7. Troubleshooting

• Charger not turning on: Check the AC power connection and ensure the outlet is functional. Verify battery connections are secure.
• Battery not charging: Confirm the correct charging mode is selected for your battery type. Check battery voltage; if extremely low, the charger may need to be in a specific recovery mode (e.g., Li-ion 0V recovery or Recondition for lead-acid).
• Overheating: Ensure the charger is in a well-ventilated area and not covered. Reduce the charge current via the VictronConnect app if necessary.
• Bluetooth connectivity issues: Ensure your mobile device is within range. Restart the VictronConnect app or your mobile device. Check if the charger's Bluetooth is enabled.
• Sulfur smell/battery boiling over: Immediately disconnect the charger and consult a battery specialist. This indicates a severe battery issue or incorrect charging parameters.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

The Victron Energy Blue Smart IP65 12V 10A Battery Charger comes with a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details and support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Victron Energy website.

10. Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when working with electrical devices and batteries. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in injury or damage.

• Read the entire instruction manual before using the charger.
• Ensure adequate ventilation when charging, especially for lead-acid batteries which can produce explosive gases.
• Avoid sparks or open flames near batteries.
• Always connect the charger to the battery before plugging it into the AC power outlet. Disconnect from AC power before disconnecting from the battery.
• Do not charge damaged, frozen, or non-rechargeable batteries.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Use the charger only in dry and well-ventilated locations.

11. Official Product Videos