Are you struggling to keep your car battery healthy and efficient? Do you need a reliable solution that can last you for years of use?
Traditional battery isolators are unreliable, can be costly, and require lots of maintenance. With so much on the line, a faulty battery isolator can easily lead to unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
In this article, you don’t have to worry anymore! Just read until the end, and you will accomplish everything you need about battery isolators!
What is a Battery Isolator Kits?
A battery isolator kit is a device that allows multiple batteries to be connected in a vehicle or other application while preventing the batteries from discharging into each other. It typically consists of an isolator and wiring to connect the batteries.
The isolator uses diodes to prevent electrical current from flowing from battery to battery while allowing charging current to flow to all batteries. This can be useful in vehicles with multiple battery systems, such as those with different starting and auxiliary batteries, to ensure that the auxiliary systems do not deplete the starting battery.
Why Should You Buy a Battery Isolator Kit?
There are several advantages why you may want to consider purchasing a battery isolator kit:
- Protection of starting battery: In a vehicle with multiple battery systems, the battery isolator kit can ensure that the auxiliary systems, such as lights, audio, or power inverters, do not deplete the starting battery.
- Charge multiple batteries: A battery isolator kit allows you to charge multiple batteries simultaneously, ensuring that all batteries in your vehicle or application are fully charged and ready to use.
- Preventing overcharging: The isolator can help to prevent overcharging of the batteries by directing the charging current only to the batteries that need it.
- Safety: The isolator help to prevent electrical fires by preventing the batteries from discharging into each other, ensuring that the power is flowing in the correct direction and avoiding any electrical short circuits.
- Convenience: A battery isolator kit allows you to have multiple batteries connected in your vehicle or application without disconnecting and reconnecting them, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient.
Overall, a battery isolator kit can be a useful addition to any vehicle or application with multiple battery systems, helping to ensure that the batteries are charged and protected, and providing convenience.
List of top 5 Battery Isolator Kits
Below are the top 5 battery isolator kits of 2023.
1. VEVOR Split Charge Relay Kit – Automatic Dual Battery Isolator Kit with 140AMP Voltage Sense Relay VSR
The VEVOR Split Charge Relay Kit is a device that is used to isolate one battery from another in a multi-battery setup, such as in a vehicle with an auxiliary battery. The kit includes a 140AMP Voltage Sense Relay (VSR) which automatically controls the charging of the auxiliary battery.
It allows the charging of the auxiliary battery without draining the main battery and also prevents the alternator from charging the auxiliary battery. It is compatible with various vehicles such as RVs, marines, Cars, Trucks, Caravans, Campers, Yachts, ATVs, UTVs, Boats, and workshops. The VSR senses when the engine is running and automatically switches to charge the auxiliary battery. When the engine is not running, it switches off the charging to avoid overcharging. This kit is a plug-and-play installation, easy to install and use.
Specifications:
Model: JDQTJ-6M
Rating Voltage: 12V DC
Continuous Current: 140A
Intermittent Current: 160A
Cut-in Voltage: 13.3V
Cut-out Voltage: 12.8V
IP Rating: IP65
Material: Nylon Plastic
Current Draw-Charging: 280mA
Current Draw-Standby: 8mA
Power Studs: M6 Stainless Steel
Delay Time: 5 Seconds
Disengage Delay: About 5-10 Seconds
Operation Temperature Range: -30 to 105℃ / -22 to 221℉
Item Dimensions(L x W x H): 2.66 x 2.11 x 2.66 in / 6.76 x 5.36 x 6.76 cm
Net Weight: 4.14 lbs / 1.88 kg
2. WirthCo 20092 Battery Doctor 125 Amp 150 Amp Battery Isolator
The WirthCo 20092 Battery Doctor 125 Amp 150 Amp Battery Isolator is a device that is used to isolate one battery from another in a multi-battery setup, such as in a vehicle with an auxiliary battery.
It helps to prevent battery drain from accessories and ensure that the main battery is used to start the engine. It also prevents the alternator from charging the auxiliary battery.
Specifications:
● Maximum continuous current: 125 Amps
● Maximum surge current: 150 Amps
● Voltage: 12 Volts DC
● Mounting holes: 4 x 10mm
● Dimension: 6.5 x 4.5 x 2.5 inches
● Weight: 1.5 pounds
3. Cllena Dual Battery Isolator Kit
The Cllena Dual Battery Isolator Kit is a device that is used to isolate one battery from another in a multi-battery setup, such as in a vehicle with an auxiliary battery.
It includes a solenoid switch and a manual switch for manual control over battery isolation. It allows charging of the auxiliary battery without draining the main battery and also prevents the alternator from charging the auxiliary battery.
Specifications:
● Maximum continuous current: 150 Amps
● Maximum surge current: 200 Amps
● Voltage: 12 Volts DC
● Mounting holes: 4 x 10mm
● Dimension: 6.7 x 4.7 x 2.7 inches
● Weight: 1.7 pounds
4. Battery Tender 081-0148-25 Junior 12V Automatic Battery Charger and Maintainer
The Battery Tender 081-0148-25 Junior 12V Automatic Battery Charger and Maintainer is a device that is used to charge and maintain 12-volt lead-acid batteries.
It is a smart charger that automatically switches to float-mode monitoring once the battery is fully charged. The charger has built-in short circuit protection, reverse polarity protection, and overcharge protection, ensuring the safety of the battery and the charger. It is suitable for all types of 12-volt lead-acid batteries, including flooded, gel, and AGM.
Specifications:
● Output voltage: 12 Volts DC
● Output current: 0.75 Amps
● Input voltage: 120 Volts AC
● Input frequency: 60 Hz
● Dimensions: 6.5 x 3.5 x 1.5 inches
● Weight: 0.9 pounds
5. Schumacher SE-4022 2/10/40/200 Amp Manual Wheeled Battery Charger and Tester
Schumacher SE has a manual setting of 2, 10, 40 and 200 amp charging rates. The charger is equipped with a digital display, which allows you to monitor the charging process and the battery’s state of charge. It also has a built-in tester that helps to check the battery’s state of charge, voltage, and load. The charger has a built-in microprocessor that continuously monitors the charging process and automatically adjusts the charge rate to ensure the battery is charged safely and efficiently. The charger also includes a built-in thermal sensor that prevents overheating and overcharging. It is suitable for all types of 12-volt lead-acid batteries, including flooded, gel, and AGM.
Specifications:
● Output voltage: 12 Volts DC
● Output current: 2/10/40/200 Amps (depending on the charging setting selected)
● Input voltage: 120 Volts AC
● Input frequency: 60 Hz
● Dimensions: 13 x 15 x 18 inches
● Weight: 38.8 pounds
Different types of Battery Isolator Kits
There are several different types of battery isolator kits available, each with its own set of features and benefits. Some common types include:
Voltage-Sensitive Relay (vsr) Isolator Kits
A voltage-sensitive relay (VSR) isolator kit is a device that is used to isolate one battery from another in a multi-battery setup, such as in a vehicle with an auxiliary battery.
This type of kit allows charging of the auxiliary battery without draining the main battery and also prevents the alternator from charging the auxiliary battery.
Solenoid-Based Isolator Kits
A solenoid-based isolator kit is a device used to isolate one battery from another in a multi-battery setup, such as in a vehicle with an auxiliary battery. It includes a solenoid switch, which is an electromechanical device that is used to control the charging of the auxiliary battery.
Manual Isolator Kits
Manual isolator kits are devices that isolate one battery from another in a multi-battery setup, such as in a vehicle with an auxiliary battery. They include a manual switch for manual control over battery isolation.
They are a simple and cost-effective solution for those who want to add an auxiliary battery to their vehicle without requiring complex wiring.
Automatic Isolator Kits
These kits use a microprocessor or other control system to automatically switch between two or more batteries’ charging and discharging circuits. They are often used in vehicles and boats to prevent the main battery from being drained by accessories.
What to Look for When Buying Battery Isolator Kits?
When buying a battery isolator kit, there are several things to consider to ensure that you choose a suitable kit for your needs.
● Type of isolator: The isolator will depend on your specific application and the number of batteries you need to isolate. Voltage-sensitive relay (VSR) and solenoid-based isolators are common for vehicles and boats, while manual and automatic isolators are available for various applications.
● Amperage rating: The amperage rating of the isolator should be sufficient to handle the maximum current draw of your system. It is important to choose an isolator with a high enough rating to prevent overloading and damage to the isolator or your battery system.
● Voltage rating: Ensure the isolator’s voltage rating is compatible with your battery system. Some isolator kits have dual voltage ratings that can be used for both 24V and 12V systems.
● Quality and durability: Look for an isolator made of high-quality materials and designed to withstand the harsh environments in which it will be used.
● Ease of installation: Look for a kit that is easy to install and comes with clear instructions. It’s also good to see if the kit has all the necessary hardware and wiring.
● Smart Features: Some isolator kits have innovative features like real-time battery monitoring, automatic shut-off, and alarms. These features can be helpful in monitoring the battery’s state and knowing when to charge or replace it.
● Brand reputation: Research the brand of the kit you’re considering. Check for customer reviews, ratings, and customer service quality of the brand.
● Price: Compare prices of different kits and choose one that is within your budget, but also keep in mind the quality of the product and its features.
Are Battery Isolator Kits Worth It?
Battery isolator kits can be worth it if you have a need for them. They are designed to prevent the main battery in a vehicle or boat from being drained by accessories, such as a stereo or GPS, while ensuring that there is always a reserve of power available for starting the engine. They also prevent overcharging of the main battery.
Additionally, battery isolator kits can be useful for vehicles and boats that use multiple batteries, such as those with dual battery systems for camping or off-roading. They can also be used for marine applications, such as on boats, to ensure that the main battery is always charged and ready for use.
FAQs
Q: What size battery isolator do I need?
The size of the battery isolator you need will depend on the amperage draw of your system and the number of batteries you need to isolate. The amperage rating of the isolator should be sufficient to handle the maximum current draw of your system without being overloaded.
Q: Should battery isolator be on positive or negative?
The placement of a battery isolator will depend on the type of isolator and the design of your electrical system. In general, most battery isolators are placed on the positive side of the battery. This is because the positive side is often used as the primary power source for electrical systems and is less likely to cause damage if a short circuit occurs.
Q: Do you need a battery isolator for 2 batteries?
A battery isolator is not always necessary when using two batteries, but it can be useful in certain situations.
