1. Introduction and Overview
The PowMr BE24 Battery Equalizer is designed to maintain the charge and discharge balance between batteries connected in series or parallel. This device helps to extend the overall service life of your battery bank by preventing individual batteries from becoming overcharged or undercharged.
One 24V Battery Equalizer unit is suitable for connecting two 12V Lead-Acid (AGM, Gel, Flood) batteries in series. It provides a maximum compensation current of 5A. For battery groups with higher voltages (e.g., 24V, 36V, 48V), multiple 24V equalizers can be connected in parallel to achieve the desired balancing capacity.
Key features include intelligent protection mechanisms such as reverse polarity protection and a low voltage disconnect function, which further contribute to the longevity and safety of your battery system. The equalizer can be connected continuously to the battery bank to automatically maintain balance over time.
2. Application
The PowMr HA01 Battery Equalizer is specifically designed for 12V lead-acid batteries connected in series to maintain voltage balance. In a series-connected battery bank, individual battery voltages can diverge during charging, discharging, or idle states, leading to imbalances where one battery may have a higher voltage than others.
The equalizer actively monitors the battery voltages. When it detects a voltage difference of 20mV or more between two batteries, it initiates a balancing process. Current is shunted from the battery with the higher voltage to the battery with the lower voltage. This process continues until the voltages of the two batteries are nearly equal, thereby improving overall battery performance and extending the lifespan of the entire battery bank.
This battery equalizer is compatible with 24V, 36V, 48V, and other N*12V battery systems. The number of equalizers required depends on the total system voltage:
- 1 piece: For a 24V system (two 12V batteries in series).
- 2 pieces: For a 36V system (three 12V batteries in series).
- 3 pieces: For a 48V system (four 12V batteries in series).
3. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the safe and effective operation of the battery equalizer. Please follow these connection instructions carefully:
- Red cable: Connect to the positive (+) pole of Battery B.
- Black cable: Connect to the negative (-) pole of Battery A.
- White cable: Connect to the common connection point between Battery A and Battery B (i.e., the negative pole of Battery B and the positive pole of Battery A).
Refer to the diagrams below for visual guidance on connecting the equalizer to different battery bank configurations.
4. Operating Instructions
The PowMr BE24 Battery Equalizer operates automatically once correctly installed. It continuously monitors the voltage of the connected batteries and initiates balancing when necessary. There are no manual controls for operation.
The device features LED indicators (LED A and LED B) to provide visual feedback on its status and the voltage balance between the batteries. Observe these indicators to understand the current state of your battery bank:
| Condition | LED A | LED B |
|---|---|---|
| U(A) = U(B) (Voltages are equal) | Off | Off |
| U(A) > U(B) (Battery A higher voltage) | Flash | Off |
| U(A) < U(B) (Battery B higher voltage) | Off | Flash |
| U(A) < 10V (Battery A low voltage) | On | Off |
| U(B) < 10V (Battery B low voltage) | Off | On |
| U(A/B) < 10V (Both batteries low voltage) | On | On |
5. Maintenance
The PowMr BE24 Battery Equalizer is designed for minimal maintenance. To ensure optimal performance and longevity, consider the following:
- Connection Checks: Periodically inspect all wiring connections to ensure they are clean, secure, and free from corrosion. Loose or corroded connections can impede the equalizer's function.
- Environmental Conditions: Ensure the equalizer is installed in a location protected from direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and extreme temperatures. While the unit has a sealed housing, prolonged exposure to harsh conditions can affect its lifespan.
- Ventilation: Although the equalizer has a low quiescent current, it may generate some heat during active balancing. Ensure it is installed in an area with adequate airflow to prevent overheating, especially if multiple units are used or if the battery bank experiences significant imbalances.
- Visual Inspection: Occasionally check the unit for any visible signs of damage or wear.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your PowMr BE24 Battery Equalizer, refer to the following troubleshooting steps:
- No LED Activity: If neither LED A nor LED B illuminates when the equalizer is connected to the batteries, first verify that all wiring connections are correct and secure. Ensure the batteries have sufficient voltage (above 10V) for the equalizer to operate.
- Persistent Imbalance (LEDs Flashing): If the LEDs continuously flash, indicating an imbalance (e.g., LED A flashes, LED B is off), it means the equalizer is actively working to balance the batteries. This is normal behavior. However, if the imbalance persists for an unusually long period (e.g., several days) without resolution, it might indicate a severely imbalanced battery bank or a potential issue with one of the batteries.
- Low Voltage Indication (LEDs On): If LED A or LED B (or both) remain steadily ON, it indicates that the corresponding battery's voltage has dropped below 10V. This is the low voltage disconnect threshold. Address the low battery condition by charging the battery bank. The equalizer will resume normal operation once voltages are restored.
- Excessive Heat: While some warmth is normal during active balancing, if the unit becomes excessively hot, ensure it has adequate ventilation and is not enclosed in a confined space. Prolonged excessive heat can indicate a heavy workload due to significant battery imbalance or a potential internal fault.
- Unit Failure: If the equalizer exhibits no signs of life, or if balancing issues persist despite troubleshooting, disconnect the unit and contact customer support for further assistance. The device includes reverse polarity protection to prevent damage from incorrect wiring.
7. Specifications
The following table outlines the technical specifications for the PowMr BE24 Battery Equalizer:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Nominal Voltage | 2 x 12V (for one unit) |
| Optimizing Current | 0-5A |
| Quiescent Current | <3mA |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 70 x 70 x 27 mm (approx. 2.76 x 2.76 x 1.06 inches) |
| Protection | Reverse Polarity Protection |
| Low Voltage Disconnect | 10V |
| Item Weight | 0.81 ounces |
| Current Rating | 5 Amps |
8. Warranty and Support
The PowMr BE24 Battery Equalizer comes with a 1-year warranty for spare part availability within the EU, indicating a commitment to product support.
For technical assistance, warranty claims, or any questions regarding the operation and maintenance of your battery equalizer, please contact PowMr customer support. Refer to the product packaging or the official PowMr website for the most current contact information.
