Hardkorr 1A Battery Charger

Contents

• 1x 1A Battery charger
• 1x SAE plug to alligator clamps adapter
• 1x SAE plug to ring terminals adapter (15A fused)

Specifications

Function Overview

The charger features an LED indicator with the following states:

• Slow flash green light: Charging in progress
• Solid green light: Fully charged
• Fast flash red light: Short circuit / incorrect clamp placement

The charger automatically recognises battery voltage and battery type.

Charging

The Hardkorr battery charger is a microprocessor-controlled automatic charger, suitable for charging maintenance-free batteries and for long-term charging and maintenance-charging of batteries not in constant use, such as those in classic cars, recreational vehicles, and ride-on mowers.

The integrated microprocessor enables charging in several steps, including a final maintenance charging step that keeps the battery at 95–100% capacity. The charging operation does not require monitoring. However, for extended charging periods, it is advisable to disconnect the charger from the mains power supply in case of a fault.

This battery charger is designed for mobile use and is not intended for installation in caravans, mobile homes, or similar vehicles. It cannot be used as an alternate power supply. Do not expose the charger to rain or snow.

Operation

1. Intended Use

This product is designed to charge and maintain 6V/12V wet cell, AGM, SLA, and calcium batteries with a capacity of 4 - 30 Ah. It is optimized for maintaining vehicle batteries during storage. Other uses may damage the product or increase the risk of short circuits, fire, or electric shock. This charger is not compatible with lithium batteries.

2. Preparing to Charge

If possible, remove the battery from the vehicle before charging. Charge the battery in a well-ventilated area. Clean the battery terminals with a baking soda and water solution before attaching the charging unit. Consult your battery's user manual before charging. Determine the battery's voltage and ensure the output voltage mode is correct.

3. Connection

Connect the unit to the battery's terminals before plugging the charger into an AC/mains port.

Charging the Battery Outside the Vehicle

Connect the battery clips or ring terminals to the battery in the following order:

1. Connect the positive lead (red) to the positive battery terminal (typically marked +/+ve or P).
2. Connect the negative charging lead (black) to the negative battery terminal (typically marked -/-ve or N).
3. Plug the 240V connection into your AC/mains outlet.
4. Use the function button to set the appropriate charge setting.

The charger has an inbuilt auto memory function, starting with the mode last used. To disconnect, unplug the charger from the 240V/AC point first, then remove the negative connection, followed by the positive connection.

Charging the Battery Within the Vehicle

1. Connect the black negative lead to an earth point (e.g., vehicle chassis), away from fuel lines or hot points.
2. Connect the positive lead (red) to the positive battery terminal (typically marked +/+ve or P).

Note: Positive Earthing

In cases of positive earthing, where the positive battery pole is connected to the bodywork, connect the black charger cable to the negative pole on the battery, and the red charger cable to the bodywork away from the battery.

4. Charging

1. Ensure your battery is a 6V or 12V battery. Do not charge batteries with different operating voltages.
2. Connect the battery charger to the power supply.
3. Select the appropriate charging mode using the "Mode" button. Refer to the Function Overview for mode descriptions.
4. Connect the battery charger to the battery with the correct polarity. Reverse polarity or short-circuit at the clamps will cause the red light to flash quickly.
5. After charging, disconnect the battery charger from the mains supply. Remove the negative clamp first, then the positive terminal clamp.

Product Safety

• Only use this charger for 6V/12V wet cell, SLA, calcium, and AGM batteries. Do not use with other battery types.
• Do not expose the charger to rain or snow.
• Using attachments not recommended or sold by the manufacturer may result in fire, electric shock, or injury.
• To reduce the risk of damage, pull the charger by the plug, not the cord, when disconnecting.
• Ensure the cord is placed where it will not be stepped on, tripped over, or subjected to damage.
• When using an extension lead, ensure it has the same pin configuration, size, and shape as the charger's cord and is in good condition.
• Do not operate the charger if the charger or leads appear damaged.
• Disassembling the charger voids the warranty and increases the risk of electric shock or fire.
• Disconnect the charger from AC/mains power before inspecting or cleaning the unit or connected battery.
• Batteries contain explosive gases. Read your battery's user manual before charging or using.
• Using incorrect charging settings can harm your battery and reduce its lifespan. Use only recommended settings.
• SLA batteries displaying a charge of 3V for an extended period during charging may need replacement, indicating the charger cannot increase the voltage.

Personal Safety

• Ensure someone is within voice range or close enough to assist when working near a lead-acid battery.
• Keep fresh water and soap nearby in case battery acid contacts skin, clothing, or eyes.
• If battery acid contacts your eyes, flush with cold running water for 10 minutes and seek medical attention.
• Never operate batteries near flames or sparks.
• Be cautious of metal objects contacting battery terminals, as they can cause sparks or short circuits.
• Using this charger with batteries not specified in this manual may cause personal injury or property damage.
• Never charge batteries when cold or frozen.

Battery Safety

• Ensure your battery is always fitted securely.
• Maintain a secure connection to the electrical system's cable network.
• Keep the battery clean and dry. Apply a thin coating of acid-free, acid-resistant grease (Vaseline) to the connection terminals.
• For non-maintenance-free batteries, check the acid level approximately every 4 weeks and top up with distilled water as needed.

Warranty Policy

Hardkorr products come with guarantees under the Australian Consumer Law, entitling you to a replacement or refund for a major failure and compensation for other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. Goods are also entitled to repair or replacement if they fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.

Hardkorr warrants this product against defects in material and workmanship for two years from the date of purchase by the original purchaser. This warranty is non-transferable. Proof of purchase is required for warranty claims.

To make a warranty claim:

1. Obtain a Return Authorization (RA) number by completing the form on the Hardkorr website and awaiting contact from the warranty team.
2. Arrange for the product to be shipped back to Hardkorr (unless it's a fridge/freezer, which requires an authorized service agent).
3. Include a copy of your original proof of purchase.
4. Clearly mark your RA number on all documentation and the shipping packaging.

Completing these steps ensures faster processing. Hardkorr will honor the warranty claim if the product is determined to be defective in material or workmanship, deciding whether to repair or replace the item.

Your warranty is void if there is evidence of:

• Negligence: Improper installation or extreme use.
• Abuse: Road hazards or damage beyond normal wear and tear.
• Unauthorized Repair: Service performed by an unauthorized center.
• Disassembly: Any attempt to open or tamper with the product.
• Discontinued Items: Discontinued items under warranty will be reviewed by Hardkorr. Replacement may be with an equivalent item, or Hardkorr will determine resolution terms.

Exceptions to this Warranty:

• Painted Finish: While Hardkorr uses high-quality materials, painted surfaces may fade due to environmental exposure. Warranty claims for faded paint will not be approved.
• Damage to Lenses: Certain chemicals can damage polycarbonate plastics. Do not use cleaning products containing any of the following chemicals: Acetic Acid Aq., Acetone, Ammonium Carbonate Aq., Ammonium Chloride Aq., Benzene, Calcium Hypochlorite, Chloroform, Chromic Acid Aq., Ethyl Acetate, Ethylene, Glycol Aq., Formaldehyde Aq., Citric Acid, Heptane, Hydrofluoric Acid Aq., Lubricating Oils (Petroleum), Methyl Ethyl Ketone, Methyl Chloride, Mineral Oils, Oleic Acid, Ozone, Phosphoric Acid Aq., Toluene, Turpentine, Zinc Chloride Aq. Hardkorr will not approve warranty claims for lighting products exposed to these chemicals.