REDARC BCDC chargers naturally generate heat during operation, as their housings act as heat sinks rather than using fans. It is normal for the casing to feel hot, and the unit will charge at full capacity until its internal temperature reaches 55°C, after which it gradually reduces output.
At 80°C it will shut down until cooled. Excessive heat is usually caused by direct exposure to hot engine components or poor airflow in enclosed spaces.
To improve thermal performance, the charger should be mounted away from heat sources, positioned where airflow is available, or ventilated with added vents or fans if installed in confined areas.
REDARC recommends seeking the support of a qualified auto electrician or technician.
Important
For your safety, REDARC recommends installation by a qualified auto electrician or technician. Our trusted REDNetwork is made up of professional auto electrical businesses certified by REDARC to install the complete of REDARC solutions. Find Your Local Installer
This information is applicable to the following products:
- BCDC Classic range (BCDC1225D, BCDC1250D, BCDC1240D)
- BCDC Core range (BCDCN1225, BCDCN1240)
- 12A DC Trailer Battery Charger (BCDC1212T)
Is it normal for a BCDC to get hot when charging?
BCDC’s are high-current DC-DC chargers, and like all DC-DC chargers, they generate heat during the charging process. While certain DC-DC chargers include fans for heat dissipation, REDARC’s BCDC chargers utilize a uniquely crafted housing which acts as a heat sink to manage heat. Therefore, it’s normal for the BCDC casing to feel warm/hot to the touch during operation.
Will this affect the BCDC's ability to charge a battery?
The BCDC will perform at 100% up to an internal temperature of 55°C (130°F). If the temperature of the BCDC exceeds 55°C (130°F), it will begin to incrementally derate the output current and will continue to derate if the temperature continues to increase. If the temperature exceeds 80°C (175°F), the charger will stop charging until the temperature decreases.
What can cause the BCDC to get hot and derate?
The two biggest factors that cause a BCDC to increase in temperature is direct heat and lack of airflow.
Direct heat: This refers to the heat generated by other factors outside of the BCDC, and can include engine components such as turbos and exhaust manifolds.
Lack of Airflow: This refers to the presence of stagnant air around the BCDC, slowing the dissipation of heat generated from the charging process, this is mainly caused by mounting the BCDC in a sealed environment such as caravan cupboards.
How to improve the thermal performance of the BCDC charger?
- If your BCDC is installed near a heat source, such as high temperature engine components, relocate the unit away from the direct heat. A common mounting location in a vehicle engine bay is between the radiator and grill.
- If your BCDC is installed in an enclosed space, such as inside a caravan cupboard or underneath a couch or bed, ensure adequate ventilation, this can be achieved by adding vents to increase airflow.
- If using the BCDC Classic range, the charger can be relocated to an area with improved airflow such as the chassis of a caravan (Please note the BCDC Core range is only suitable for in-cabin installation).
- Installing a small cooling fan in the enclosed area, such as a computer fan, to create airflow over the BCDC heatsink is an effective option if your BCDC is installed in an enclosure with poor ventilation and cannot be relocated.
