Deltran Battery Tender 021-1174 Instruction Manual

The Deltran Battery Tender 021-1174 is a 12V, 1.25A battery charger and maintainer designed for lead-acid, AGM, and gel cell batteries. It features automatic operation with multi-stage charging (initialization, bulk charge, absorption, float/maintenance), spark-proof technology, reverse polarity protection, and a weather-resistant design. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Indicators 6. Connecting to Battery 7. Charging Process 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Storage 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Charger unit, AC power cord, DC output cables with alligator clips and ring terminals, LED status indicators.

FeatureDescription
Multi-Stage ChargingAutomatic bulk, absorption, and float/maintenance modes
Spark-Proof TechnologyPrevents sparks when connecting to battery
Reverse Polarity ProtectionProtects charger if clips are connected incorrectly
Weather-Resistant DesignSuitable for indoor/outdoor use (IP65 rated)
LED Status IndicatorsRed (charging), Green (charged/maintaining), Flashing Red (error)
Automatic Voltage DetectionDetects 12V battery automatically
Float/Maintenance ModeKeeps battery at full charge indefinitely without overcharging
Compact DesignLightweight and portable
Compatible Battery TypesStandard lead-acid, AGM, gel cell (12V only)
Charge Rate1.25 Amps output

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all components are present and undamaged.

  1. Choose location: Place charger on stable, dry surface away from heat sources and flammable materials.
  2. AC power connection: Plug AC power cord into standard 120V outlet. LED may blink red briefly.
  3. DC cable preparation: Select either alligator clips or ring terminals based on your connection preference.
  4. Battery preparation: Ensure battery is in well-ventilated area. Remove battery caps if applicable (except sealed batteries).

WARNING! Never place charger directly on battery. Keep away from water except for weather-resistant surfaces. Ensure proper ventilation.

First-Time Setup

Follow these steps for initial use.

  1. Connect AC power: Plug charger into outlet. Red LED should blink once.
  2. Connect to battery: Attach RED clip/terminal to POSITIVE (+) battery terminal first.
  3. Complete connection: Attach BLACK clip/terminal to NEGATIVE (-) battery terminal or chassis ground.
  4. Monitor status: Red LED indicates charging; Green indicates fully charged/maintaining.
  5. Disconnect: When finished, disconnect BLACK clip first, then RED clip, then unplug AC power.

CAUTION! Always connect positive first, negative last. Disconnect in reverse order. Never connect to frozen battery.

Specifications

Controls and Indicators

Charger operation is automatic with LED status indication.

LED Status Lights:

Automatic Operation: Once connected properly, charger automatically selects correct charging stage based on battery condition. No user adjustment needed.

Connecting to Battery

Proper connection sequence is critical for safety.

  1. Ensure charger is unplugged from AC outlet.
  2. Connect RED alligator clip or ring terminal to POSITIVE (+) battery terminal.
  3. Connect BLACK alligator clip or ring terminal to NEGATIVE (-) battery terminal or clean, unpainted metal chassis ground.
  4. Plug charger into AC outlet. LED should illuminate.
  5. For ring terminal installation: Connect terminals directly to battery posts and leave connected for permanent maintenance charging.

Tip: Clean battery terminals before connecting for best performance. Ensure clips have good metal-to-metal contact.

Charging Process

The charger automatically progresses through four stages:

  1. Initialization: Tests battery condition (approximately 30 seconds)
  2. Bulk Charge: Delivers full 1.25A current until battery reaches 80% capacity (Solid RED LED)
  3. Absorption Charge: Tapers current while maintaining voltage (Flashing GREEN LED)
  4. Float/Maintenance: Maintains battery at full charge with micro-current pulses (Solid GREEN LED)

Typical Charging Times:

WARNING! Do not attempt to charge non-rechargeable batteries. Monitor battery temperature during initial charge cycle.

Safety Features

Multiple protections ensure safe operation.

Care & Storage

Unplug and disconnect from battery before cleaning. Wipe with dry cloth only.

Storage: Store in cool, dry place. Coil cords loosely to prevent damage.

Maintenance: Periodically inspect cables for damage. Replace if insulation is cracked or wires exposed.

CAUTION! Do not immerse in water. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners. Keep ventilation openings clear.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. UL and cUL listed. Copyright © Deltran Battery Tender. For support, visit www.batterytender.com or contact 1-800-531-2929.

Warranty: 5-year limited warranty from date of purchase. Register product online for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No LED lightsNo AC powerCheck outlet; ensure charger is plugged in; try different outlet
Flashing RED LEDReverse polarity or bad connectionDisconnect and reconnect correctly; clean battery terminals
Solid RED LED for extended timeDeeply discharged or sulfated batteryAllow more time (up to 24 hours); battery may need replacement
Charger gets hotNormal during bulk chargeEnsure ventilation; if excessively hot, disconnect and contact support
Battery not holding chargeOld or damaged batteryTest battery; may need replacement
Spark when connectingCharger plugged inAlways connect clips before plugging in AC power

Reset: Unplug from AC, disconnect from battery, wait 30 seconds, then reconnect.

Service: 1-800-531-2929; www.batterytender.com

Deltran Battery Tender 021-1174 Instruction Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025