Battery Isolator - Parasitic Current
Does the typical battery isolator subject the vehicle battery to any parasitic current when they're in the "cut-out" mode (secondary battery disconnected)?
Forum Discussion
OP here. Purchased this $30 battery isolator on Amazon and installed it as part of our Renogy 40a dc2dc charger install. This BI appears to be the same unit that Keyline sells for $85.
This BI works great. Powers on the dc2dc charger when the alternator is active (>13.3v) and powers it off when it's not (<12.8v). According to the spec sheet, parasitic current is 10ma when the secondary batteries are off-line (relay open), 250ma on-line (relay closed). The resolution on my Amprobe clamp ammeter is a little sketchy at ma levels, but near as I can tell it's definitely under 20ma with the relay open. Also, this BI is only rated for "50a-70a continuous". They claim it has a 140a rating without acknowledging it's a "peak" rating---a bit misleading.
This BI works great. Powers on the dc2dc charger when the alternator is active (>13.3v) and powers it off when it's not (<12.8v). According to the spec sheet, parasitic current is 10ma when the secondary batteries are off-line (relay open), 250ma on-line (relay closed). The resolution on my Amprobe clamp ammeter is a little sketchy at ma levels, but near as I can tell it's definitely under 20ma with the relay open. Also, this BI is only rated for "50a-70a continuous". They claim it has a 140a rating without acknowledging it's a "peak" rating---a bit misleading.
