There are multiple variations of the ICP Solar Battery Saver, but they are all used to provide a trickle of solar-powered electricity to a car, marina or RV battery. The Battery Saver can also be used to help recharge small appliances, such as cameras, laptops, iPods and MP3 players. The ICP Solar Battery Saver is designed for use in both high- and low-light situations and can connect with a car battery in less than a minute.
The 1.5-watt model has an operating voltage rated at 15.5 volts and 1.5 amps. The 2.6-watt model has a load of 0.17 amps and 15.5 volts. The 5-watt Battery Saver Pro model has an operating voltage rated at 15 volts. The 7.75-watt panel uses 0.5 amps and 15.5 volts. The 65-watt SE 4000, suitable for marine batteries, has a maximum current of 4 amps with a guarantee of 80 percent of the rated output for 20 years from the purchase date. Larger models are able to offset up to nearly 200 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
All Battery Saver models are weatherproof and include a 10 foot extension wire, built-in diode and battery clamps. Each Battery Saver also comes with either suction cups or mounting brackets and wire twist connectors so that the system is complete in and of itself once it is purchased. Depending on which model you purchase, your kit may also include a panel to panel jumper cable and a DC power port adapter.
The ICP Solar Battery Saver is designed to support all types of 12-volt batteries. Types supported include lead-acid automotive batteries, deep cycle batteries (which are often used for solar energy systems), gel-cell batteries and heavy-duty stationary batteries. The ICP Solar Battery Saver PRO5W model is also able to trickle charge multiple batteries at one time, charging up to six small batteries, such as those found on motorcycles, four-wheelers, mopeds and other smaller-sized personal transportation devices. The ICP Solar Battery Save PRO5W can also charge up to three automotive batteries at one time.
Depending on the model of ICP Solar Battery Saver that you wish to purchase, you may also need to purchase and install a charge controller. Charge controllers help prolong the lifespan of car and marina batteries by shutting off excess power from the Battery Saver's photovoltaic cell when the actual battery has reached its charge capacity. Overcharging car or marina batteries can dramatically shorten their lifespan and usefulness. Battery Savers rated at 15 watts or more should be installed along with a charge controller. Each ICP Solar Battery Saver is also equipped with a built-in electrical diode, which prevents reverse current within the system that could potentially drain the battery at night. Another accessory is an extension wire for a longer distance between the solar panel on the Battery Saver and the battery or appliance using the electricity. Virtually any of the ICP Solar Battery Saver models can be extended using 16-gauge wiring up to 35 feet without losing any efficiency in the system.
