Blue Power 24V 15A 230VAC IP22 Battery Charger - 1 Output

[cygnusv]

I'm changing the leisure bank next spring and looking at fitting a smart charger to replace the 'blunt instrument' we've had on board for the last 10 years.

I was looking at the 24 volt Ctek 12amp but spotted the Victron model above. Has anyone had extended use out of either of these units. They both seem to be a good deal cheaper than Sterling - so is there unmentioned bad news lurking?

We're on board at all times of the year and typically we have full time mains power when on the mooring, so I'd expect the unit to be on 24/7 through a (1-2-both-off) switch to maintain the starter batteries as well.

Alternatively, do you have a different unit on your boat that you can recommend for longevity and reliable performance?

Thoughts appreciated, Stu

 

[[2574]]

I have a Victron "Easyplus" (combi inverter/charger) unit on board for the past eight years and for that time it has been turned on with the exception of our weekend sailing and annual fortnight cruise. It has been charging 510ah AGM's and providing 240v via the inverter as needed. It has had one fault in this time, after about five years, which was the remote battery temperature sensor failed; Victron sent me a replacement without charge.

I rate the product and the Company.

 

[David2452]

I'm changing the leisure bank next spring and looking at fitting a smart charger to replace the 'blunt instrument' we've had on board for the last 10 years.

I was looking at the 24 volt Ctek 12amp but spotted the Victron model above. Has anyone had extended use out of either of these units. They both seem to be a good deal cheaper than Sterling - so is there unmentioned bad news lurking?

We're on board at all times of the year and typically we have full time mains power when on the mooring, so I'd expect the unit to be on 24/7 through a (1-2-both-off) switch to maintain the starter batteries as well.

Alternatively, do you have a different unit on your boat that you can recommend for longevity and reliable performance?

Thoughts appreciated, Stu

I fit quite a lot of Victron kit, the blue power range, though not as sophisticated as some of their stuff is an economic solution and to date I have not had a warranty issue or out of warranty failure. I'm sure there will be problems with some as with any such device but I certainly have confidence in them.

 

[cygnusv]

I have a Victron "Easyplus" (combi inverter/charger) unit on board for the past eight years and for that time it has been turned on with the exception of our weekend sailing and annual fortnight cruise. It has been charging 510ah AGM's and providing 240v via the inverter as needed. It has had one fault in this time, after about five years, which was the remote battery temperature sensor failed; Victron sent me a replacement without charge.

I rate the product and the Company.

Hi Robih

Although your unit is far more sophisticated than the one I'm considering I very much value your last comment, thanks

I fit quite a lot of Victron kit, the blue power range, though not as sophisticated as some of their stuff is an economic solution and to date I have not had a warranty issue or out of warranty failure. I'm sure there will be problems with some as with any such device but I certainly have confidence in them.

Hi David2452

Your contribution is particularly valuable because you deal with these units from a wider range of users. If you don't mind, I'd like to ask you a question. My twin starter batteries (for 24 volt as mentioned) are only 45AH each (CC800amps) If I were to run a 24V 15amp Blue Power unit through my 0-1-2-both switch would it damage my starter batteries if I gave them a squirt of power in the 'both' setting? My leisure bank is a modest 220AH.

I do realise that many would recommend a heavier charger for the leisure batteries, but we have have mains power for most things, so the batteries have to be 'maintained' rather than whacked with lots of amps. When we're away of course, the alternator plus genny if required, take up the slack. Thanks, Stu

 

[David2452]

Total of 90ah, a 15a charger is not going to hurt them.