Deltran Battery Tender Instruction Manual

The Deltran Battery Tender is a microprocessor-controlled battery charger designed to safely charge and maintain 12V lead-acid batteries, including AGM, GEL, and WET types. It features multi-stage charging (initialization, bulk charge, absorption, float), reverse polarity protection, spark-proof connections, and automatic voltage detection. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Charger unit, Alligator clips, Ring terminal harness, AC power cord, Status indicator lights.

FeatureDescription
Multi-stage chargingInitialization, Bulk, Absorption, Float modes for optimal battery health
Automatic voltage detectionDetects 12V battery automatically; no manual selection needed
Reverse polarity protectionPrevents damage if clips are connected incorrectly
Spark-proof technologySafe connection; no sparks when attaching clips
Float/Maintenance modeMaintains battery at full charge without overcharging
LED status indicatorsRed (charging), Green (charged/maintaining), Flashing (error)
Alligator clipsFor temporary connection to battery terminals
Ring terminal harnessFor permanent connection to battery
Compact designLightweight, portable, and easy to store
Thermal protectionPrevents overheating during extended use

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Ensure charger is compatible with your 12V battery.

  1. Choose connection method: Use alligator clips for temporary charging or ring terminals for permanent installation.
  2. Connect to battery: RED clip/terminal to POSITIVE (+) battery post. BLACK clip/terminal to NEGATIVE (-) battery post or vehicle chassis ground.
  3. Connect to AC power: Plug charger into a standard 120V AC, 60Hz outlet ONLY after battery connections are secure.
  4. Verify location: Place charger on a stable, dry, non-flammable surface away from battery.

WARNING! Always connect clips to battery before plugging into AC power to prevent sparks. Ensure proper polarity to avoid damage.

First-Time Use

Follow these steps for initial charging cycle.

  1. Ensure battery is in a well-ventilated area and terminals are clean.
  2. Connect charger to battery as described in Installation.
  3. Plug charger into AC outlet. Red LED should illuminate, indicating charging has begun.
  4. Monitor LED: Red (charging), Green (charged/maintaining). Charging time varies by battery size and discharge level.
  5. Once Green LED is solid, battery is fully charged and charger has entered Float/Maintenance mode.

CAUTION! Do not use with non-rechargeable batteries. Keep charger dry and away from flammable materials during operation.

Specifications

Controls and Indicators

Charger operation is automatic; status is indicated by LED lights.

LED Status Guide:

Note: No user controls are present; charging is fully automatic based on battery condition.

Charging Procedures

For routine charging of discharged or maintained batteries.

  1. Preparation: Clean battery terminals if corroded. Ensure battery vent caps are secure (for flooded batteries).
  2. Connection: Attach clips/terminals (RED to +, BLACK to -). Ensure firm contact.
  3. Power On: Plug charger into AC outlet. Red LED should light immediately.
  4. Monitoring: Charger will automatically progress through stages. No user intervention required.
  5. Completion: When Green LED lights, charging is complete. Charger switches to Maintenance mode.
  6. Disconnection: Unplug from AC outlet FIRST, then disconnect clips from battery.

Tip: For long-term storage, leave charger connected to maintain battery at optimal charge.

Maintenance Mode

Float mode maintains battery at full charge indefinitely.

Note: Maintenance mode is automatic; simply leave charger connected after full charge is achieved.

Safety Features

Built-in protections ensure safe operation.

FeatureProtection Provided
Reverse Polarity ProtectionPrevents damage if clips are reversed; charger will not operate
Spark-Proof TechnologyNo sparks when connecting clips, reducing explosion risk
Short Circuit ProtectionShuts down output if short is detected
Overcharge ProtectionAutomatically switches to float voltage
Thermal ProtectionReduces current if internal temperature exceeds safe limit
Automatic Voltage DetectionEnsures only 12V batteries are charged

WARNING! Always use in a dry location. Do not cover charger during operation. Keep away from children and pets.

Care & Storage

Proper care ensures long charger life.

  1. Cleaning: Unplug and disconnect from battery. Wipe exterior with dry cloth only. Do not use liquids or solvents.
  2. Inspection: Periodically check cords and clips for damage (cracks, exposed wires). Replace if damaged.
  3. Storage: Coil cords neatly. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  4. Connectors: Keep alligator clips and ring terminals clean; remove corrosion with wire brush if necessary.

CAUTION! Do not disassemble charger. No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with limits for residential use. Copyright © Deltran. All trademarks are property of Deltran Corporation. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that it does not cause harmful interference. For support, visit www.batterytender.com or contact customer service at 1-800-531-2929.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
LED does not lightNo AC power / Loose connectionCheck outlet; ensure plug is fully inserted; verify battery connections are tight.
Flashing Red LEDReverse polarity / Bad batteryCheck clip polarity (RED to +, BLACK to -). Battery may be damaged or below 3V.
Solid Red LED for extended time (24+ hours)Very discharged or large batteryAllow more time. If after 48 hours still red, battery may be defective.
Charger gets warmNormal during bulk chargeEnsure ventilation; warm housing is normal. If excessively hot, unplug and inspect.
Battery not holding chargeBattery end of life / SulfationTest battery with load tester. Charger cannot revive severely sulfated batteries.
Spark when connecting clipsCharger plugged in / Battery loadAlways connect clips BEFORE plugging into AC. Small spark may occur if battery is heavily discharged.

Reset: Unplug from AC and battery for 2 minutes, then reconnect.

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

Deltran Battery Tender Instruction Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025