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★☆☆☆☆
DO NOT PURCHASE!
I purchased this controller to charge a bank of marine batteries. I have $1,500 worth of batteries purchased new from Walmart. The system has been correctly wired as I'm a very experienced electronics technician.
I set the charge controller to the default setting as indicated by the manual for Flooded Marine batteries and as shown in the attached photo. It clearly states that flooded marine batteries are charged with this setting.
In addition to this charge controller, I purchased the Battery Voltage Monitor and the Battery Bank Balancer. All were connected properly. I have checked the batteries for proper water levels on a monthly basis and have had no issues. They are kept in a clean, relatively cool place in my garage.
About 3 weeks ago, the balancer started to go into an alarm condition. The BVM unit showed an increasing difference between the lower and upper banks of my 24V system.
Upon having the alarm trip, I disconnected all of the batteries and then began conducting tests. As it turned out, the charger was NOT charging the bank to the equalization charge of 32V. I have been back and forth with Victron for many issues related to their product. I have performed software updates. I now have a battery bank that is completely destroyed.
Victron says that it is all MY fault for the following reasons:
1. I used the incorrect settings on the charger.
2. I did not have discussions with my "dealer" - the seller on this page.
I have not been able to get an address or telephone number of this "dealer."
I had hoped that this equipment would be better than the Chinese units on the market and better supported. Sadly, this is not the case. Victron offers NOTHING to help me with the destroyed batteries.
I will be taking this up with small claims court - if possible.
August 2018 · Patio Lawn and Garden · verified purchase