EcoFlow Alternator Charger User Manual

Overview

The EcoFlow Alternator Charger is designed to efficiently charge portable power stations or extra batteries using a vehicle's alternator. The device features several ports and indicators:

• 1. Antenna: Communicates with the EcoFlow app via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
• 2. Vehicle Battery Port: Connects to the vehicle starter battery or RV house battery using the Input Cable.
• 3. Portable Power Station Port: Connects to a portable power station or extra battery via the XT150 Output Cable.
• 4. COM Communication Port (RJ45): A preset port, currently not in use.
• 5. Power Button: Short press to power on; long press for 3 seconds to power off.
• 6. LED Indicator: Displays the operating mode and status of the charger.

Diagram Description: A top-down view of the EcoFlow Alternator Charger, a rectangular device with rounded corners. It shows five ports labeled 1 through 5 on the front/side, and a sixth indicator labeled 6 on the top.

LED Indication

The LED Indicator (6) shows the operating mode and state of the charger. Specific details regarding LED patterns and their meanings are typically provided in a detailed table, which is not fully available in the source text.

Wire Up Your Charger

Safety Recommendations

It is highly recommended that wiring is performed by a professional. Always adhere to the following safety precautions:

• Wear personal protective equipment, including protective goggles and gloves, during wiring and installation.
• Avoid wiring in areas with high temperatures, sharp objects, or friction-prone surfaces. Secure cables properly to prevent wear or loose connections due to movement.
• Always observe the safety instructions specific to the battery being used.
• Complete all wiring before starting the vehicle and turning on the charger.
• Ensure the charger is powered off and disconnected before making any wiring changes.

Wiring Steps

Diagram Description: An illustration showing the EcoFlow Alternator Charger connected to a vehicle's electrical system and a portable power station. The charger (A) is connected via an Input Cable (B) to a vehicle battery (E), which is also connected to the vehicle's alternator. A Fuse Cable (D) is shown connecting the positive terminal of the vehicle battery to the charger. An XT150 Output Cable (C) connects the charger to a Portable Power Station or Extra Battery (F). The diagram visually represents the power flow from the vehicle's alternator, through the charger, to the power station.

1. Connect the ring terminal of the Fuse Cable (D) to the positive (+) terminal on the vehicle starter battery or RV house battery (E).
2. Connect the other end of the Fuse Cable (D) and the positive (red) terminal of the Input Cable (B) with a torque of 3 to 4 N*m. Insufficient torque may lead to loose connections and cable melting, while torque higher than 6 N*m can break the fuse.
3. Ground the negative (black) terminal of the Input Cable (B) to the vehicle's chassis or directly to the RV house battery's negative (-) terminal if connecting to an RV.
4. Connect the Input Cable (B) to the Vehicle Battery Port (2) on the charger (A).
5. Connect the XT150 Output Cable (C) from the Portable Power Station Port (3) on the charger (A) to the extra battery port of the power station or extra battery (F).

Important: Ensure that the Input Cable, Fuse Cable, and Output Cable are connected firmly. Loose connections can cause cable melting.

Compatibility

Vehicle Starter Battery or RV House Battery

Ensure the vehicle starter battery or RV house battery is undamaged and rechargeable. The battery's nominal voltage must be 12V or 24V. For some older or special car models with relatively low overall voltage, the charger might not work correctly. In such cases, use the EcoFlow app to adjust the charger's start voltage.

Portable Power Station or Extra Battery

The 800W Alternator Charger connects to the portable power station or extra battery (F) via the XT150 Output Cable (C) to its extra battery port (XT150). Verify that your EcoFlow portable power station or extra battery is equipped with this port.

Environmental Requirements

To ensure the charger operates normally, the installation location must meet the following requirements:

1. Be near the portable power station or extra battery, as the Output Cable is only 1m long and cannot be extended.
2. Provide adequate connection space around the ports.
3. Maintain a dry, tidy environment with moderate temperatures, away from heat sources.
4. Keep the charger away from flammable substances, as it generates heat during operation.
5. Ensure good ventilation and avoid covering the charger with blankets or anything that obstructs airflow.
6. Keep children and pets away from the charger.

Install Your Charger (Optional)

For smooth rides, the charger can be placed directly on the power station. For bumpy rides, it is recommended to install the charger securely.

Diagram Description: An image showing the EcoFlow Alternator Charger placed on top of an EcoFlow portable power station, with cables connected.

Method 1: Using Self-Tapping Screws

This method involves installing the charger onto the body or frame of your vehicle using the included self-tapping screws.

Diagram Description: A visual guide showing the charger being mounted inside a vehicle, possibly in the trunk or cargo area, using an installation board and self-tapping screws. It illustrates marking positions, drilling holes, attaching the board to the charger, and securing it to the vehicle.

1. Use the installation board to locate and mark drilling positions.
2. Drill two holes of 5 mm diameter.
3. Fix the installation board to the back of the charger using three M5 screws.
4. Insert the self-tapping screws through the installation board and into the drilled holes.

Method 2: Using M6 Bolts and Nuts

This method allows for installation on a board using the included M6 bolts and nuts.

Diagram Description: A visual guide showing the charger mounted on a flat surface (like a board or wall) using an installation board, M6 bolts, and nuts. It illustrates marking positions, drilling holes, attaching the board to the charger, and securing it with bolts and nuts.

1. Use the installation board to locate and mark drilling positions.
2. Drill two holes of 6 mm diameter.
3. Fix the installation board to the back of the charger using three M5 screws.
4. Insert the M6 bolts through the installation board and into the holes, then tighten the M6 nuts.

Getting Started

• Power On: Short press the Power Button once.
• Power Off: Long press the Power Button for 3 seconds.

To ensure normal operation, complete the wiring as instructed and then power on the portable power station or extra battery before starting your vehicle.

Upon the first power-on, the charger will enter Charge Mode. In daily use, it will resume the mode it was in when last powered off.

Diagram Description: An image of the EcoFlow Alternator Charger connected to a portable power station, with a smartphone displaying the EcoFlow app interface.

Note: For optimal performance, please upgrade your portable power station or extra battery's firmware to the latest version before use.

Bind Your Charger

EcoFlow offers a companion app for device management. Binding the charger to your EcoFlow account via the app allows you to:

1. Check the charger's status.
2. Change operating mode.
3. Adjust output power.
4. Adjust start voltage.

Binding Steps

1. Download the EcoFlow App from: https://download.ecoflow.com/app
2. Open the EcoFlow app and log into your EcoFlow account. If you do not have an account, create one first.
3. Tap the "Add Device" button or the "+" icon in the top right corner to search for new EcoFlow devices.
4. Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and bind the device to your EcoFlow account.
5. Connect to the Internet (optional). This enables remote management of the charger. If an internet connection is unavailable, you can manage the charger via Bluetooth.

Unable to Discover Your Charger via Bluetooth?

If you encounter issues discovering the charger via Bluetooth, follow the instructions in the "How to Unbind" section to reset the charger's Bluetooth and then attempt to bind again.

How to Unbind (via Button)

You can unbind the charger via the app or the Power Button. To unbind using the button, follow these steps:

1. Power off the portable power station or extra battery.
2. Long press the Power Button on the charger for 3 seconds to power it off.
3. Wait for several seconds, then long press the Power Button again for 5 seconds. Unbinding begins when the LED indicator turns solid yellow. Unbinding is complete when the indicator changes to another color.

How to Switch Mode & State

Diagram Description: Two screenshots of the EcoFlow app interface, showing how to select different operating modes (e.g., Charge Mode, Battery Maintenance Mode) and switch between working and standby states.

To change the operating mode, navigate to the device detail page within the EcoFlow app and tap on the desired mode icon.

To switch between working and standby states, tap the toggle button in the app.

Charge Mode

Power Flow: Alternator → Vehicle Starter Battery or RV House Battery → Alternator Charger → Portable Power Station or Extra Battery

Maximum Power: 800W

When your vehicle is in motion and the portable power station or extra battery is powered on, the charger utilizes the alternator's redundant power to charge them. The actual output power is influenced by the vehicle's motion state and model.

To prevent overdischarging of the vehicle's starter battery, the charger monitors its voltage. If the voltage drops below the charger's start voltage, it will cease operation. The charger will automatically power off if it remains idle in Charge Mode for over 48 hours.

Safety Note: For driving safety, it is recommended not to change the operating mode while the vehicle is in motion.

Battery Maintenance Mode / Reverse Charge Mode

Diagram Description: A diagram illustrating the power flow: Portable Power Station/Extra Battery → Alternator Charger → Vehicle Starter Battery.

Power Flow: Portable Power Station or Extra Battery → Alternator Charger → Vehicle Starter Battery

Default Maximum Power: 100W

After powering on the portable power station or extra battery, this mode allows you to keep your vehicle's starter battery charged at an optimal level over an extended period. This helps extend the battery's lifespan and ensures it is ready for use when needed.

How to Unplug Cables

Diagram Description: Diagrams showing the process of unplugging the Input Cable and Output Cable from the charger and the power station, emphasizing powering off devices first and using a cable puller.

To unplug the Input Cable or Output Cable, follow these steps:

1. Power off the portable power station or extra battery.
2. Power off the charger.
3. Use the included cable puller to unplug the cable.

Troubleshooting

LED Indicator is Red

• Check the EcoFlow app interfaces for detailed error information.

Wiring is Complete but Charger Won't Power On

• Ensure correct polarity when connecting the charger to the vehicle starter battery or RV house battery.
• Verify that all cable terminals are connected firmly.
• Confirm the nominal voltage of the vehicle starter battery or RV house battery is 12V or 24V.
• Check the negative terminal connection: ensure the negative terminal of the Input Cable is connected to the negative terminal of the starter battery. If it is, try connecting the negative terminal of the Input Cable to the vehicle's chassis instead and then attempt to power on the charger again.

In Charge Mode, the Charger is Working but the Power Station or Extra Battery Won't Charge

• Upgrade the firmware of your portable power station or extra battery to the latest version via the app.
• Check if a charge limit has been set for your power station in the app.

Output Power Doesn't Reach the Maximum

• Verify the output power setting for the charger in the app.
• The alternator's output might be low. Try boosting its output (e.g., by pressing the accelerator) and then re-check.

In Charge Mode, the Output Power Fluctuates Dramatically

• This may occur if a battery sensor module is connected to the negative terminal of the starter battery. Try connecting the negative terminal of the Input Cable to the vehicle's chassis instead.

Power Station or Extra Battery Turns Off After Putting the Charger into Standby State

• Upgrade the firmware of your portable power station or extra battery to the latest version via the app.

The Connected WAVE 2 Add-on Battery Won't Charge

Upon connecting a WAVE 2 add-on battery, the charger will initiate a device recognition process, which takes approximately 1 minute. Charging will commence once recognition is complete.

If problems persist after these checks, please contact technical support.

Maintenance

1. Inspect the cables monthly, ensuring terminals are tight. Check for cracks, abrasions, and corrosion on the cables. If any issues are found, stop using the cables immediately and follow the instructions in the "Cable Replacement" section.
2. Use a dry, soft, and clean cloth or paper towels to clean the charger.

Cable Replacement

Warning: For continued protection against fire and electric shock risks, replace cables and fuses only with components of the same type and ratings.

To replace the Output Cable, purchase new cables from EcoFlow's official sales channels. For replacing the Input Cable, Fuse Cable, or Fuse, consult EcoFlow's official customer service for purchase suggestions and professional replacement assistance.

What's in the Box

Diagram Description: An arrangement of all included components: the charger unit (a), cables (b, c, d), installation hardware (e, f, g, h, i), cable puller (j), and documentation (k).

• a. EcoFlow Alternator Charger
• Cables:
• b. Input Cable (5m)
• c. XT150 Output Cable (1m)
• d. Fuse Cable
• Installation Kits:
• e. Installation Board
• f. M5 Screw x3
• g. ST5.5 Screw x2
• h. M6 Bolt x2
• i. M6 Nut x2
• Others:
• j. Cable Puller
• k. Quick Start Guide & Safety Instructions & Warranty Card

Specifications

Safety Instructions

Wiring and Installation

1. It is recommended that the wiring is performed by a professional.
2. Wear personal protective equipment (including protective goggles and gloves) during wiring and installation.
3. It is recommended to complete wiring before starting the vehicle and turning on the charger.
4. Connect the fuse cable and the positive terminal of the input cable to a torque of 3 to 4 N*m. Insufficient torque will lead to a loose connection and cable melting. A torque higher than 6 N*m will break the fuse.
5. Follow these steps when connecting the input cable:
   • Connect the ring terminal of the fuse cable to the positive terminal on the vehicle starter battery or RV house battery.
   • Connect the other end of the fuse cable to the positive terminal of the input cable.
   • Ground the negative terminal of the input cable to the chassis of the vehicle or directly to the RV house battery's negative terminal (if you are connecting it to an RV).
   • Connect the input cable to the vehicle battery port on the charger.
6. Make sure that the input cable, fuse cable, and output cable are connected firmly, as loose connections can cause cable melting.
7. Avoid reversing the polarity of the positive and negative connections when connecting the input cable and the fuse cable to the vehicle starter battery or RV house battery.
8. When wiring, avoid high temperature, sharp, and friction-prone areas, and securely fasten the cables to avoid cable wear or loose connections caused by cable movement.
9. Refer to the specifications of the vehicle starter battery or RV house battery and make sure that its nominal voltage is 12V or 24V. Always observe the safety instructions of the battery during use.
10. Do not use the charger with damaged or non-rechargeable batteries.
11. Power off the charger and disconnect it before changing the wiring each time.
12. Make sure the screws are tightened to the specified torque during installation (M5: 3 N*m; ST5.5: 4 N*m; M6: 9 N*m).
13. CAUTION: To reduce the risk of fire, use only battery packs that include the battery management system and all necessary protection for the battery pack integral to the pack.

Environmental Requirements

1. Install and use the charger in a dry and tidy environment with a moderate temperature.
2. Keep the charger away from heat sources and wet environments.
3. Keep the charger away from flammable substances as the charger produces heat when it's in use.
4. Use the charger in an area with good ventilation and pay attention not to cover the charger with blankets or anything that will hinder ventilation.
5. Do not wet the charger, or soak it in water or any other liquids.
6. Keep children and pets away from the charger.

Daily Use

1. Power off the charger before plugging or unplugging cables.
2. Inspect the cables every month and ensure that the terminals are tight. Look out for cracks, abrasions, and corrosion on the cables. If you notice any of this, stop using the cables immediately and follow the instructions in the "Cable Replacement" section.
3. Avoid prolonged contact with the charger when it is in use.
4. Use a dry, soft, and clean cloth or paper towels to clean the charger.
5. Contact EcoFlow's official customer service if the charger needs repair.
6. Do not disassemble the charger yourself. Otherwise, the charger may be damaged and the warranty will be voided.

In Case of Emergency

1. In case of emergency, take precautions against electric shock (wear insulating gloves, for instance) before touching the charger.
2. If the charger gets wet, stop using it immediately and refrain from further operation or powering it on. Place the charger in a secure, waterproof, and well-ventilated area, then contact EcoFlow's official customer service for assistance.
3. If the charger falls into water, place it in a secure, waterproof, and well-ventilated area, and keep it away from contact until it is completely dry. The dried charger should not be used again and must be properly disposed of according to local laws and regulations.
4. If the charger catches fire, it is recommended to use fire extinguishers in the following order: water or water mist, sand, fire blanket, dry powder, and finally a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher.
5. If the charger is overturned and severely damaged, wear insulating gloves to turn it off, then place the charger in an open area far from flammable materials and people, and dispose of it according to local laws and regulations.