Schumacher SC1280 Automatic Battery Charger Owners Manual

1. Important Safety Instructions

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS – This manual contains important safety and operating instructions.

1. This charger is not intended for use by children.
2. Do not expose the charger to rain or snow.
3. Use of an attachment not recommended or sold by the battery charger manufacturer may result in a risk of fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
4. To reduce the risk of damage to the electric plug and cord, pull by the plug rather than the cord when disconnecting the charger.
5. An extension cord should not be used unless absolutely necessary. Use of an improper extension cord could result in a risk of fire and electric shock. If an extension cord must be used, ensure:
   • The pins on the plug of the extension cord are the same number, size, and shape as those of the plug on the charger.
   • The extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condition.
   • The wire size is large enough for the AC ampere rating of the charger as specified in section 8.
6. Do not operate the charger with a damaged cord or plug; replace the cord or plug immediately.
7. Do not operate the charger if it has received a sharp blow, been dropped, or otherwise damaged in any way; take it to a qualified serviceman.
8. Do not disassemble the charger; take it to a qualified serviceman when service or repair is required. Incorrect reassembly may result in a risk of electric shock or fire.
9. To reduce the risk of electric shock, unplug the charger from the outlet before attempting any maintenance or cleaning. Turning off controls will not reduce this risk.

RISK OF EXPLOSIVE GASES.

1. Working in the vicinity of a lead-acid battery is dangerous. Batteries generate explosive gases during normal battery operation. For this reason, it is of utmost importance that you follow the instructions each time you use the charger.
2. To reduce the risk of battery explosion, follow these instructions and those published by the battery manufacturer and manufacturer of any equipment you intend to use in the vicinity of the battery. Review cautionary markings on these products and on the engine.

2. Personal Safety Precautions

1. Consider having someone close enough by to come to your aid when you work near a lead-acid battery.
2. Have plenty of fresh water and soap nearby in case battery acid contacts skin, clothing, or eyes.
3. Wear complete eye protection and clothing protection. Avoid touching eyes while working near the battery.
4. If battery acid contacts skin or clothing, wash immediately with soap and water. If acid enters an eye, immediately flood the eye with running cold water for at least 10 minutes and get medical attention immediately.
5. NEVER smoke or allow a spark or flame in the vicinity of the battery or engine.
6. Be extra cautious to reduce the risk of dropping a metal tool onto the battery. It might spark or short-circuit the battery or other electrical part that may cause an explosion.
7. Remove personal metal items such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, and watches when working with a lead-acid battery. A lead-acid battery can produce a short-circuit current high enough to weld a ring or the like to metal, causing a severe burn.
8. Use the charger for charging only LEAD-ACID (STD, AGM, Gel or deep-cycle) rechargeable batteries with recommended rated capacities of 24 Ah (6V) and 44-75Ah (12V). It is not intended to supply power to a low voltage electrical system other than in a starter-motor application. Do not use the battery charger for charging dry-cell batteries that are commonly used with home appliances. These batteries may burst and cause injury to persons and damage to property.
9. NEVER charge a frozen battery.

10. WARNING: This product contains one or more chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

3. Preparing to Charge

1. If necessary to remove the battery from the vehicle to charge, always remove the grounded terminal from the battery first. Make sure all accessories in the vehicle are off, so as not to cause an arc.
2. Be sure the area around the battery is well ventilated while the battery is being charged.
3. Clean battery terminals. Be careful to keep corrosion from coming in contact with eyes.
4. Add distilled water in each cell until the battery acid reaches the level specified by the battery manufacturer. Do not overfill. For a battery without removable cell caps, such as valve regulated lead-acid batteries, carefully follow the manufacturer's recharging instructions.
5. Study all battery manufacturer's specific precautions while charging and recommended rates of charge.
6. Determine the voltage of the battery by referring to the car owner's manual and make sure that the output voltage selector switch is set at the correct voltage. If the charger has an adjustable charge rate, charge the battery initially at the lowest rate.

4. Charger Location

1. Locate the charger as far away from the battery as DC cables permit.
2. Never place the charger directly above the battery being charged; gases from the battery will corrode and damage the charger.
3. Never allow battery acid to drip on the charger when reading electrolyte specific gravity or filling the battery.
4. Do not operate the charger in a closed-in area or restrict ventilation in any way.
5. Do not set a battery on top of the charger.

5. DC Connection Precautions

1. Connect and disconnect DC output clips only after setting any charger switches to the "off" position and removing the AC cord from the electric outlet. Never allow clips to touch each other.
2. Attach clips to the battery and chassis, as indicated in sections 6 and 7.

6. Follow These Steps When Battery Is Installed in Vehicle

WARNING: A SPARK NEAR THE BATTERY MAY CAUSE A BATTERY EXPLOSION. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF A SPARK NEAR THE BATTERY:

1. Position AC and DC cords to reduce the risk of damage by the hood, door, or moving engine part.
2. Stay clear of fan blades, belts, pulleys, and other parts that can cause injury to persons.
3. Check the polarity of battery posts. The POSITIVE (POS, P, +) battery post usually has a larger diameter than the NEGATIVE (NEG, N, −) post.
4. Determine which post of the battery is grounded (connected) to the chassis. If the negative post is grounded to the chassis (as in most vehicles), see (6.5). If the positive post is grounded to the chassis, see (6.6).
5. For a negative-grounded vehicle, connect the POSITIVE (RED) clip from the battery charger to the POSITIVE (POS, P, +) ungrounded post of the battery. Connect the NEGATIVE (BLACK) clip to the vehicle chassis or engine block away from the battery. Do not connect the clip to the carburetor, fuel lines, or sheet-metal body parts. Connect to a heavy gauge metal part of the frame or engine block.
6. For a positive-grounded vehicle, connect the NEGATIVE (BLACK) clip from the battery charger to the NEGATIVE (NEG, N, −) ungrounded post of the battery. Connect the POSITIVE (RED) clip to the vehicle chassis or engine block away from the battery. Do not connect the clip to the carburetor, fuel lines, or sheet-metal body parts. Connect to a heavy gauge metal part of the frame or engine block.
7. When disconnecting the charger, turn switches to off, disconnect the AC cord, remove the clip from the vehicle chassis, and then remove the clip from the battery terminal.
8. See Operating Instructions for the length of charge information.

7. Follow These Steps When Battery Is Outside Vehicle

WARNING: A SPARK NEAR THE BATTERY MAY CAUSE A BATTERY EXPLOSION. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF A SPARK NEAR THE BATTERY:

1. Check the polarity of battery posts. The POSITIVE (POS, P, +) battery post usually has a larger diameter than the NEGATIVE (NEG, N, −) post.
2. Attach at least a 24-inch-long 6-gauge (AWG) insulated battery cable to the NEGATIVE (NEG, N, −) battery post.
3. Connect the POSITIVE (RED) charger clip to the POSITIVE (POS, P, +) post of the battery.
4. Position yourself and the free end of the cable as far away from the battery as possible – then connect the NEGATIVE (BLACK) charger clip to the free end of the cable.
5. Do not face the battery when making the final connection.
6. When disconnecting the charger, always do so in reverse sequence of the connecting procedure and break the first connection while as far away from the battery as practical.
7. A marine (boat) battery must be removed and charged on shore. To charge it on board requires equipment specially designed for marine use.

8. Grounding and AC Power Cord Connections

1. This battery charger is for use on a nominal 120 volt circuit. The plug must be plugged into an outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances. The plug pins must fit the receptacle (outlet). Do not use with an ungrounded system.

2. DANGER: Never alter the AC cord or plug provided – if it does not fit the outlet, have a proper grounded outlet installed by a qualified electrician. An improper connection can result in a risk of an electric shock or electrocution.

   NOTE: Pursuant to Canadian Regulations, the use of an adapter plug is not allowed in Canada. The use of an adapter plug in the United States is not recommended and should not be used.

3. Using an Extension Cord

   The use of an extension cord is not recommended. If you must use an extension cord, follow these guidelines:

   • Pins on the plug of the extension cord must be the same number, size, and shape as those of the plug on the charger.
   • Ensure that the extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condition.
   • Wire size must be large enough for the AC ampere rating of the charger, as specified:

   Length of cord (feet)	25	50	100	150
   AWG* size of cord	18	18	16	14

   *AWG-American Wire Gauge

9. Assembly Instructions

1. Remove all cord wraps and uncoil the cables prior to using the battery charger.

10. Control Panel

START/STOP BUTTON

Press to immediately begin charging your properly connected battery. If the button is not pressed, charging should begin in ten minutes.

CHARGING STATUS LED INDICATORS

CHARGING (yellow/orange) LED lit: The charger is charging the battery.

CHARGED (green) LED lit: The battery is fully charged and the charger is in maintain mode.

CLAMPS REVERSED (red) LED flashing: The connections are reversed.

BAD BATTERY (red) LED lit: The charger has detected a problem with the battery. See Troubleshooting for more information.

NOTE: See Operating Instructions for a complete description of the charger modes.

DIGITAL DISPLAY

The display will show the battery VOLTAGE when the charger is not charging a battery. When it goes into charging mode, the display will automatically change to 'On' (to show charging has started) and then show the percent-of-charge of the battery being charged and either 6 or 12 (the voltage of the battery, determined by the charger). If you manually stop the charging process (by pressing the START/STOP button) before the battery is fully charged, the display will show 'OFF'.

NOTE: During charging, the display will go into sleep mode and will not show the percentage of charge or voltage of the battery. To turn the display back on, press any button.

CHARGE RATE

The charger will automatically adjust the charging current, based on battery size, in order to charge the battery completely, efficiently and safely.

RATE SELECTION BUTTON

Use this button to set the maximum charge rate. Press the button until the desired charge rate is selected.

• 3A: For charging small batteries, such as those commonly used in garden tractors, snowmobiles, and motorcycles. Also used to maintain fully charged large batteries.
• 15A: For charging automotive, marine, and light truck batteries. Not intended for industrial applications.

BATTERY TYPE BUTTON

Use this button to select the battery type.

• Standard: Used in cars, trucks, and motorcycles, these batteries have vent caps and are often marked "low maintenance" or "maintenance-free". This type of battery is designed to deliver quick bursts of energy (such as starting engines) and has a greater plate count. The plates are thinner and have somewhat different material composition. Standard batteries should not be used for deep-cycle applications.
• AGM: The Absorbed Glass Mat construction allows the electrolyte to be suspended in close proximity with the plate's active material. In theory, this enhances both the discharge and recharge efficiency. AGM batteries are a variant of Sealed VRLA (valve regulated lead-acid) batteries. Popular uses include high-performance engine starting, power sports, deep-cycle, solar, and storage batteries.
• GEL: The electrolyte in a GEL cell has a silica additive that causes it to set up or stiffen. The recharge voltages on this type of cell are lower than those for other styles of lead-acid battery. This is probably the most sensitive cell in terms of adverse reactions to overvoltage charging. Gel batteries are best used in VERY DEEP cycle applications and may last a bit longer in hot weather applications. If the wrong battery charger is used on a gel cell battery, poor performance and premature failure will result.

11. Operating Instructions

WARNING: A spark near the battery may cause an explosion.

IMPORTANT: Do not start the vehicle with the charger connected to the AC outlet, or it could result in damage to the charger.

NOTE: This charger is equipped with an auto-start feature. Current will not be supplied to the battery clamps until a battery is properly connected. The clamps will not spark if touched together.

Charging a Battery In the Vehicle

1. Turn off all the vehicle's accessories.
2. Keep the hood open.
3. Clean the battery terminals.
4. Place the charger on a dry, non-flammable surface.
5. Lay the AC/DC cables away from any fan blades, belts, pulleys, and other moving parts.
6. Connect the battery, following the precautions listed in sections 6 and 7.
7. Connect the charger to a live grounded AC outlet.
8. Select the battery type and charge rate.
9. Charging will begin within ten minutes and finish automatically. (Press the START/STOP button to begin charging immediately.)
10. When charging is complete, disconnect the charger from the AC power, remove the clamps from the vehicle's chassis, and then remove the clamp from the battery terminal.

Charging a Battery Outside of the Vehicle

1. Place the battery in a well-ventilated area.
2. Clean the battery terminals.
3. Connect the battery, following the precautions listed in sections 6 and 7.
4. Connect the charger to a live grounded AC outlet.
5. Select the battery type and charge rate.
6. Charging will begin within ten minutes and finish automatically. (Press the START/STOP button to begin charging immediately.)
7. When charging is complete, disconnect the charger from the AC power, disconnect the negative clamp, and finally the positive clamp.
8. A marine (boat) battery must be removed and charged on shore.

Automatic Charging Mode

When an Automatic Charge is performed, the charger switches to the maintain mode automatically after the battery is charged.

Battery Charging Times

Times are based on a 50% discharged battery and may change, depending on age and condition of battery.

Aborted Charge

If charging cannot be completed normally, charging will abort. When charging aborts, the charger's output is shut off and the BAD BATTERY (red) LED will light. The digital display will show an error code (see the Troubleshooting section for a description of the error codes). Do not continue attempting to charge this battery. Check the battery and replace, if necessary.

Desulfation Mode

Desulfation could take 8 to 10 hours. If desulfation fails, charging will abort and the BAD BATTERY (red) LED will light.

Completion of Charge

Charge completion is indicated by the CHARGED (green) LED. When lit, the charger has switched to the maintain mode of operation.

Maintain Mode (Float-Mode Monitoring)

When the CHARGED (green) LED is lit, the charger has started maintain mode. In this mode, the charger keeps the battery fully charged by delivering a small current when necessary. If the charger has to provide its maximum maintain current for a continuous 12 hour period, it will go into abort mode (see Aborted Charge section). This is usually caused by a drain on the battery or the battery could be bad. Make sure there are no loads on the battery. If there are, remove them. If there are none, have the battery checked or replaced.

Maintaining a Battery

The SC1280 charges and maintains 6-volt and 12-volt batteries.

NOTE: The maintain mode technology allows you to safely charge and maintain a healthy battery for extended periods of time. However, problems with the battery, electrical problems in the vehicle, improper connections or other unanticipated conditions could cause excessive current draws. As such, occasionally monitoring your battery and the charging process is required.

Using the Battery Voltage Tester

1. With the charger unplugged from the AC outlet, connect the charger to the battery following the instructions given in previous sections.
2. Plug the charger AC power cord into the AC outlet.
3. If necessary, press the BATTERY TYPE button until the correct type is indicated.
4. Read the voltage on the digital display. Keep in mind that this reading is only a battery voltage reading; a false surface charge may mislead you. Compare the reading to the chart below.

Power-Up Idle Time Limit

If no button is pressed within 10 minutes after the battery charger is first powered up, the charger will automatically switch from tester to charger if a battery is connected. In that case, the charger will be set to charge at the 3A rate and gel cell battery type.

12. Maintenance and Care

A minimal amount of care can keep your battery charger working properly for years.

• Clean the clamps each time you are finished charging. Wipe off any battery fluid that may have come in contact with the clamps to prevent corrosion.
• Occasionally clean the case of the charger with a soft cloth to keep the finish shiny and help prevent corrosion.
• Coil the input and output cords neatly when storing the charger. This will help prevent accidental damage to the cords and charger.
• Store the charger unplugged from the AC power outlet in an upright position.
• Store inside, in a cool, dry place. Do not store the clamps clipped together, on or around metal, or clipped to the cables.

13. Troubleshooting/Error Codes

Error Codes

If you get an error code, check the connections and settings and/or replace the battery.

Troubleshooting

14. Before Returning for Repairs

If these solutions do not eliminate the problem, or for more information about troubleshooting, contact customer service for assistance:

• Email: services@schumacherelectric.com
• Website: www.batterychargers.com
• Phone: 1-800-621-5485, Monday-Friday 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM CST

For REPAIR OR RETURN, contact Customer Service at 1-800-621-5485. DO NOT SHIP UNIT until an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) number is received from Customer Service at Schumacher Electric Corporation.

15. Specifications

• Input Voltage: 120V AC @ 60Hz, 3.6A
• Output Voltage: 6V or 12V, with auto voltage detection
• Output Current Rating: 2A DC @ 6V DC; 15A DC @ 12V DC

16. Limited Warranty

WARRANTY NOT VALID IN MEXICO.

SCHUMACHER ELECTRIC CORPORATION, 801 BUSINESS CENTER DRIVE, MOUNT PROSPECT, IL 60056-2179, makes this limited warranty to the original retail purchaser of this product. This limited warranty is not transferable or assignable.

Schumacher Electric Corporation (the “Manufacturer”) warrants this battery charger for two (2) years from the date of purchase at retail against defective material or workmanship that may occur under normal use and care. If your unit is not free from defective material or workmanship, the Manufacturer's obligation under this warranty is solely to repair or replace your product with a new or reconditioned unit at the option of the Manufacturer. It is the obligation of the purchaser to forward the unit, along with proof of purchase and mailing charges prepaid to the Manufacturer or its authorized representatives in order for repair or replacement to occur.

The Manufacturer does not provide any warranty for any accessories used with this product that are not manufactured by Schumacher Electric Corporation and approved for use with this product. This Limited Warranty is void if the product is misused, subjected to careless handling, repaired, or modified by anyone other than the Manufacturer or if this unit is resold through an unauthorized retailer. The Manufacturer may void this Limited Warranty if a "warranty void if removed" label is removed from the product.

The Manufacturer makes no other warranties, including, but not limited to, express, implied or statutory warranties, including without limitation, any implied warranty of merchantability or implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose. Further, the Manufacturer shall not be liable for any incidental, special or consequential damage claims incurred by purchasers, users or others associated with this product, including, but not limited to, lost profits, revenues, anticipated sales, business opportunities, goodwill, business interruption and any other injury or damage. Any and all such warranties, other than the limited warranty included herein, are hereby expressly disclaimed and excluded. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or length of implied warranty, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply. This warranty gives specific legal rights and it is possible to have other rights which vary from this warranty.

THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE ONLY EXPRESS LIMITED WARRANTY AND THE MANUFACTURER NEITHER ASSUMES OR AUTHORIZES ANYONE TO ASSUME OR MAKE ANY OTHER OBLIGATION TOWARDS THE PRODUCT OTHER THAN THIS WARRANTY.

Schumacher® and the Schumacher logo are registered trademarks of Schumacher Electric Corporation.

Warranty Card / Registration

Activate your warranty online for a quick and easy process. Visit www.batterychargers.com to register your product online.

If you do not have internet access, you may mail in the completed warranty card. The warranty card should be submitted within 30 days of purchase. The customer must keep the ORIGINAL receipt because it will be required for any warranty claims. This warranty is not transferable. Send warranty card only.

DO NOT SEND UNIT TO THIS ADDRESS FOR REPAIR.

Mail this card to:

The warranty registration form includes fields for: Model, Description, Name, Street Address, City, State, Zip Code, Phone, Email, Store Name Where Purchased, Date of Purchase, Store Location, UPC Number, and Serial Number.