To fully charge up a wet cell battery, most battery manufacturers suggest 2.35 volts per cell or 14.1 volts. However, this varies depending on the manufacturer, type of battery, temperature, and if the battery is a wet cell, gel cell, or dry cell battery.

The amount of time it takes the battery to charge is dependent on many factors, ranging from the capacity of the battery, the amount the battery has been discharged, which model is being used, and the gauge of wire connecting the DLS to the battery. Taking into account the many variables, charge time can range anywhere from two to twenty-four hours.

Dual Voltage allows selectable charging capability, offering a standard 13.6V "float" charge and a stepped-up 14.2V "bulk" charge for 12V systems. Increasing the float charge to the bulk charge allows for faster charging of the battery.

Whenever a battery has reached 13.8 to 14.1 vdc and remains there for any length of time, it will "gas". Some gassing is good, but if left in this condition for a long period of time, it can actually boil, start bulging, and before long the battery is ruined. A short in one of the cells of the battery as well as an old battery with a very high leak inductance can cause the charger to put full current into the battery causing the battery to boil and become a safety hazard.

When plugged into the shoreline or grid power for long periods of time, the best way to maintain your batteries is to have a charger that will "float" your batteries at 13.4 to 13.8 volts.

The IQ controller is ideal for batteries that are not in use for months at at time by providing a charge cycle approximately every seven days. This promotes longer life of the battery by reducing "sulfating" of the plates.

No. DLS units feature "proportional fan control," meaning the fan will run only when needed and at the speed necessary to cool the unit.

220V systems require a DLS model specifically designed for that system's voltage. 220V DLS units are clearly identified on the label as 220V and are available in a variety of amperages.

The fuses on the DLS provide Reverse Polarity Protection in the event that the DLS is connected incorrectly. If the fuses are blown, verify proper installation before replacing the fuses.

The optimum temperature for batteries is 78 deg. F. High temperatures cause the battery to self discharge faster. Cold temperatures slow down the self discharge, but decrease the output capacity of the battery. At 0 deg. F, a battery will only have 50% of it’s 78 deg. capacity. Also, a battery that has been 80% discharged will freeze and burst at 18 deg. F.

Cold temperatures necessitate a higher voltage to charge the battery up to the 100% level. Battery charging voltages should adjust according to the ambient battery temperature to insure a full charge and to insure that battery does not overcharge in higher temperatures.

Hydrometers can give you an accurate reading of the state of charge of each cell of the battery, however, remember you are handling extremely caustic acid. In addition, the battery is chemically sensitive, each time you open the caps, you run the risk of contamination, which will shorten the life of the battery. A good digital volt meter can safely give you an accurate reading of the battery state of charge. The following is a gauge you can use to check your battery in a rested state.

• 12.63 - 100%
• 12.45 - 80%
• 12.27 - 60%
• 12.09 - 40%
• 11.91 - 20%

You should never let your batteries get below the 20% capacity level.

NOTE: To test a battery at rested state, disconnect the positive lead from the battery for approximately 20 to 24 hours.

Because of losses caused by wire length, loose connections, or battery isolators, the voltage that reaches the battery may not be as high as what the charger / converter is delivering. Keep all wiring connections tight and keep wiring distances to a minimum.

The ITS provides a 20-30 second delay before switching power. This allows the generator to stabilize before the power is delivered, avoiding damaging power fluctuations to your load.

Transfer switches can be used with a wide range of generator sizes. While the generator may have the capacity to deliver a large supply of power, the level is determined by the size of the load drawing the power. IOTA offers switches for 30, 50, and 100 amp loads.

A lit LED indicates a circuit is open. This is caused by a blown fuse. Check all equipment or appliances on the circuit to locate the source of the failure.

IDP panels accept a wide range of standard circuit breakers, such as GE-type THQP, Murray-type MP, or Siemens-type QT circuit breakers.

Yes, the IDP-240 will operate in the capacity as both a sub and main panel.