OWNER’S MANUAL
FREEDOM 458 Series COMBI
TM
INVERTER/CHARGER
MODEL 15
MODEL 15D Part No. 81-1520-12
MODEL 20 Part No. 81-2010-12
MODEL 20D Part No. 81-2020-12
Part No. 81-1510-12
INFORMATION IN THIS MANUAL IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
®
A Valley Forge Company
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Part No. 90-0123-00
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
LED Fault Status
Things to Check
Things You Should Know . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Circuit Breaker Protection
Thermostat Controlled Cooling
Inverter Idle Circuit
Low and High Battery Shutdown
Power Sharing
Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Temperature Sensitive Charging
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Optional Remote Control Panels . . . . . . . . .10
Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Battery Types
Battery Interconnection
Battery Bank Ratings and Sizing
Battery Charging. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Freedom Battery Chargers
Battery Charger Voltage Table . . . . . . . . .20
Installation Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Key Installation Points
Grounding
Neutral Bonding
AC Wiring
AC Input
AC Output
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
Remote Control Wiring
TSC Temperature Senstive Charging
DC Wiring
Battery Cable Fusing
Power ON Checks
Not recommended for use in marine environment
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INTRODUCTION
This owner’s manual describes the
Freedom 458 Series CombiTM Inverter/
Chargers from Heart Interface. These units
perform three distinct functions:
power through directly to the loads. When the
external AC power source is disconnected, the
transfer switch allows automatic switching
back to the inverter.
1. DC to AC power inverting.
The Freedom Inverter/Charger operates
as a self-contained backup power system, just
add batteries.
2. Automatic transfer switching between
inverter power and incoming AC power.
3. Automatic 3-Stage Battery charging plus
manual battery equalizing.
• Freedom battery chargers are electronically
controlled and rated at a maximum output
current:
• The inverter provides regulated 120 volt AC
power at a crystal controlled frequency from a
deep cycle battery bank and is rated at:
Freedom 15 & 15D
Freedom 20 & 20D
75 Amps DC
100 Amps DC
Freedom 15 & 15D
Freedom 20 & 20D
1500 watts
2000 watts
They are designed to rapidly and optimally
charge wet, gel, or Absorbed Glass Mat
(AGM)** cell deep-cycle batteries. Battery
charging is automatically accomplished in 3
stages: Bulk Charge, Acceptance Charge and
Float Charge.
The output is a modified sine wave and is
compatible with most appliances, tools and
other 120 VAC equipment. (Note: Certain laser
printers, breadmakers, digital clocks and
small battery chargers may not operate on
modfied sinewave.) An idle mode reduces
battery power consumption when loads are
removed from the inverter. There is a low
battery cutout protection circuit and
momentary surge power of more than twice
the inverter rating for starting electric motors.
High efficiency insures the longest possible
battery life between charges.
Using a Remote Control Panel or Link
Instrumentation, a manually engaged
Equalizing Charge cycle is possible. Simple,
automatic operation is made possible by the
microprocessor in the Freedom Inverter/
Charger. In most cases, no attention or
maintenance is required.
Electronic Protection
• The internal transfer switch allows the
Freedom Inverter/Charger to be connected to
an external AC source and transfer the source
Fast-acting electronic circuits protect
the inverter from overloads and short circuits.
Other protection includes a low and high
battery voltage cutoff and automatic shutdown
if an over temperature condition occurs. When
the fault condition is corrected, the unit will
automatically reset. Example: remove
overload, charge batteries or allow to cool.
**Battery type selection is set on the front of the unit
or with an optional remote (Remote Control Panel or
Link Instrument).
Freedom 20D
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THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Circuit Breaker Protection
Thermostat Controlled Cooling
The Freedom Inverter/Charger is
supplemental breaker protected. The
INVERT/CHARGE breaker on the front of the
Freedom Inverter/Chargers are equipped
with a thermostatically-controlled fan that cools
the unit so it can operate continually at its rated
unit protects against sustained inverter/charger output.
over current conditions.
Inverter Idle Circuit
This automatic energy saving feature
protects the incoming AC circuit. The incoming reduces battery power consumption when no
The 30 Ampere AC INPUT circuit breaker
AC circuit provides power to the battery
charger and its power is transfered to the
loads connected to the inverter AC output.
These breakers are reset by pushing the
button back in.
AC load is present. Response from idle is
instantaneous. In most cases, the operation of
the idle circuit is not noticeable. Use of the
Remote Control Panel or Link Instrumentation
allows the idle threshold to be adjusted. The
unit does not put out 120 volts when in idle. To
bring the unit out of the idle condition, apply a
load.
The output circuit breakers protect the
output AC circuits. Models are available with
one or two outputs. Note: The integral circuit
breakers provided for AC outputs 1 and 2 are
not suitable for branch circuit protection. To
comply with NEC, additional branch circuit
rated breakers should be used to power the
loads.
Low and High Battery Shutdown
When in inverter mode, if the battery
voltage drops to 10.0 volts, the inverter will
automatically shut off. Charge the batteries to
13.5 volts to automatically resume operation.
Voltage shut down also occurs for a high
battery condition at 15.5 volts. Operation will
resume automatically when the battery voltage
drops below 15.5 volts. Check all DC sources
on the system for the reason for the excessive
voltage.
Circuit Breaker Protection
INPUT INV/CHG
OUT 2
N/A
20
OUT 1
20
15
30
30
30
30
20
20
25
25
15D
20
15
N/A
20
25
Power Sharing
When connected to an external AC
source the battery charger and transfer
functions are engaged. A unique Power
Sharing feature automatically reduces the AC
power consumption of the battery charger
allowing necessary AC power to go to the load.
This prevents the source AC INPUT circuit
breaker from tripping within the specified rating
of the AC circuit breaker.
20D
15
Freedom 20D
INPUT
The Power Sharing set point of each unit
has a factory default setting. This can be
changed using the Remote Control Panel or
Link Instrumentation.
INVERT/CHARGE
OUT 1
OUT 2
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THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Temperature Sensitive Charging
When the supplied battery temperature
sensor is connected to the unit and the
batteries, the charge voltage is controlled
based on battery temperature. The charger
adjusts the charge voltage to the best level,
minimizing water loss in wet cell batteries.
Charge voltage regulation optimizes the battery
life cycle.
TSC Sensor
Battery
Freedom 20D
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OPERATION
• Battery type setup. To enter the battery
type select mode, press and hold the INVERT
switch for five seconds. The status LEDs will
change from indicating status information to
indicating battery type. The selection of the
battery type is made with the Charge switch.
The Freedom Inverter/Charger provides
120 volt AC power from auxiliary DC batteries,
automatic battery charging and automatic AC
transfer switching between an external AC
source and inverter mode.
External AC Power
Turning the INVERT OFF will reduce
battery power consumption to a very low level.
This is recommended if the unit will not be
used for an extended period of time.
When external AC power is available, the
3-stage battery charger, transfer switching,
and Power Sharing automatically function.
When external AC power is not available
and the INVERT switch is ON (either through
the auxiliary switch or the INVERT button on
the remote), the inverter will automatically turn
ON. If the INVERT switch is OFF (the INVERT
LED will not be illuminated), the inverter will be
OFF.
CHARGE MODE
The CHARGE push-button switch has
two functions:
• Turn the charger ON and OFF
If external AC is present, pressing the
CHARGE switch will turn the charger ON.
The green CHARGE LED will be ON when the
charger is charging. When the charger is ON,
pressing this switch will turn the charger OFF.
• Select the battery type After holding
the INVERT switch for 5 seconds, press the
CHARGE switch to select the battery type.
One of the four LEDs will rapidly blink
indicating the present battery type setting.
Press the CHARGE switch again to change
the battery type. Continue to press until the
desired battery type is selected. If the
If installed with the Remote Control Panel
or Link Instrumentation, the unit will be set up
and controlled from the remote. Refer to the
remote manual for more information.
Front Panel Controls and Indicators
INVERT MODE
The INVERT push-button switch is
located on the front of the unit and has two
functions:
• Turn the inverter ON/OFF and reset after
a fault condition. Pressing the INVERT switch
turns the inverter ON. The green INVERT LED
will be ON when the inverter is inverting.
When the inverter is ON, pressing the INVERT
switch turns the inverter OFF.
CHARGE switch is not pressed for 5 seconds,
the unit will return to normal operation and the
battery type selection will have been made.
When the 12 volt input to the unit is
disconnected, the battery type setting is stored
in non-volatile memory. When the unit is
reconnected, the battery type selection
conveniently returns to the setting.
INVERT
CHARGE
Freedom 20D (Dual Output)
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OPERATION
STATUS LEDs
NOTE: When AC power is available, the
Each Status LED performs two functions, default setting for the charger is ON. If the unit
providing battery type selection and operation
status.
was manually turned OFF and AC power is in-
terrupted and becomes available again, the
charger will return to ON.
Status LEDs
LOW BATTERY - Red LED
CHARGE
INVERT
TSC
REMOTE
• When the LED is OFF the battery
voltage is normal, between 10.5 and 15.0
volts DC.
OVERTEMP
OVERLOAD / AGM
LOW BATTERY / GEL 2
CHARGE / GEL1
INVERT/WET
• When the LED is solid red, it indicates a
battery warning condition, the battery voltage is
below 10.5 volts DC or above 15.0 volts DC.
Battery Type Selection
After holding the INVERT button down for
5 seconds, use the CHARGE button to select
battery type :
• When the LED is blinking slowly, (1 time
per second), a battery shutdown has occurred.
The voltage is either below 10.0 volts DC or
above 15.5 volts DC.
WET GEL 1
GEL 2 AGM
• When the LED is blinking rapidly (5
times per second), a potential problem in the
DC system has been detected. Check your
batteries, battery cables and DC loads.
Operation Status
INVERT - Green LED
• When the LED is solid green, the unit is
in invert mode. This occurs by pressing the
INVERT switch.
OVERTEMP/OVERLOAD - Red LED
• When the LED is Off operation is
normal.
• When the LED is blinking slowly (1 time
per second), the inverter is in standby with AC
power applied and the transfer switch engaged
• When the LED is red, there is an over
temp or overload condition. Check for
excessive loads or short circuit on the output
of the inverter. Correct the condition and restart
by pushing the INVERT switch.
• When the LED is OFF, the inverter is
OFF.
CHARGE - Green LED
• When the LED is solid green, the unit is
in the charge mode and external AC power is
being supplied.
• When the LED is blinking slowly (1 time
per second), an over current condition or a
short circuit has occured. The system has
shut OFF and will not automatically restart.
Correct the fault condition and manually restart
the system.
• When the LED is blinking slowly, (1 time
per second) the charger is ready, but external
AC power is not available.
• When the LED is OFF, the charger has
been manually turned OFF. This can only be
accomplished while AC power is being
supplied.
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OPERATION
LOW BATTERY & OVERTEMP/OVERLOAD
- Red LEDs
Overtemp
• When both LEDs are blinking, an AC
backfeed has been detected. A backfeed
occurs when AC power from an external
source is connected to the output of the
inverter. Inspect wiring for possible input/output
wiring error. This condition will damage the unit
and must be corrected before further
operation.
Low
Battery
TSC
Auxiliary Port
Remote
TSC (Temperature Sensitive Charging)
This provides for the connection of a
sensor to measure battery temperature for
compensated charging. If no sensor is
connected the charge voltage levels are set to
defaults based on battery type.
Freedom 20D
OPTIONAL REMOTES
If using one of the remotes, refer to the
installation instructions included with the
remote.
Note: When a Remote Control Panel or
Link is installed, the jumper included in the
parts plastic bag is not used in the Auxiliary
Switch Port (AUX SWITCH) on the front panel
of the inverter/charger. See page 23 for more
details.
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OPTIONAL REMOTE CONTROL PANELS
LINK 2000
The Link 2000 has the same features as
Remote Control Panel
An optional remote control panel is
the Link 1000, providing inverter/charger
control and complete battery state-of-charge
information. It monitors two battery banks.
available. The LED bargraphs on the remote
control panel shows battery voltage and DC
current in both inverter and charger modes.
LINK 2000
Easy to see red, yellow and green LEDs
show the battery state-of-charge. Power
Sharing, charger ON/OFF, inverter ON/OFF
controls are provided. Set up features include
selection of Idle Threshold, Battery Type and
Battery Capacity.
LINK 2000R
The Link 2000R adds the ability to
regulate an engine-driven alternator. The
precision regulator in the LINK 2000R allows
the alternator to be controlled as a 3-stage
battery charging system.
Remote Control Panel
If Link Instrument is used to control the
inverter/charger, refer to the Link Owner’s
Manual for setup and control information.
Advanced Remote Control Panels
Link Instrument
Advanced remote control panels are also
available: the Link 1000, 2000 and 2000R.
Refer to the Remote Control Panel
or LINK Owner’s Manual for
LINK 1000
Link 1000 controls the Freedom Inverter/
Charger and provides complete battery
state-of-charge information including DC
voltage, current, Amp-hours consumed, Time
Remaining and historical data for a single
battery bank.
installation and operation instructions
The jumper is not installed in the AUX
Switch Port on the front panel of the
inverter when the Remote Control Panel
or Link Instrument is used. See page 23
for more details.
LINK 1000
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BATTERIES
Wet cell batteries will give off gas as a
natural result of charging and will experience
some water loss. It is very important that the
electrolyte level be checked frequently and
topped off with distilled water when necessary.
Follow the battery manufacturer’s
recommendations for maintenance.
Never allow the top of the battery plates to
be exposed to air, as contamination of the cell
will result. Keep the top of batteries clean.
Always provide adequate ventilation for the
battery storage compartment.
Do not use ordinary car batteries or
engine starting batteries with your inverter/
charger. Beware of any battery that is rated in
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). This is a rating
which applies only to engine starting batteries.
In general, most wet cell batteries that are
described as hybrid type batteries, suitable for
either engine starting or deep-cycle
BATTERY TYPES
Use only deep-cycle batteries with your
Freedom Inverter/Charger. These fall into three
broad categories: wet cell, gel cell and
Advanced AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat)
batteries.
Wet Cell Batteries
True deep-cycle wet cell batteries are
characterized by relatively thick internal plates
that are alloyed with antimony.
applications, are a compromise and will have
limited life if deeply discharged.
Common 12 volt marine/RV deep-cycle
batteries are acceptable. Golf cart
batteries perform well and may have a
longer life. These 6 volt batteries must be
used in series connected in pairs. High
quality deep-cycle batteries offer good
performance and are available in a wide
variety of sizes.
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BATTERIES
Beware of so-called maintenance-free Series
batteries. These batteries have calcium
alloyed with the lead and hold the liquid
electrolyte in a sponge-like material. They are
sealed and water can not be added. Do not
confuse them with true gel cell or AGM
batteries, they will not hold up well to deep
discharging and repeated cycling.
Connecting two batteries in series will
double the voltage of the battery bank. For
instance, two 6 volt batteries connected in
series will produce 12 volts. The Amp-hour
capacity of the battery bank will be the same
as each individual battery. Example, two 6 volt
220 Amp-hour batteries in series will produce
one 12 volt 220 Amp-hour battery bank.
Gel Cell Batteries
Gel cell batteries are lead-acid batteries
similar in many ways to the common wet cell
battery, but differences in the chemistry and
construction provide some unique features.
+
+
• No Maintenance
• Low Self-Discharge Rate
• Low Internal Resistance
+
Even though gel cells are sealed
batteries, the battery compartment should still
be ventilated.
Series
Advanced AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat)
Batteries
Series Increase Voltage
This battery is lead acid but maintenance-
free. The performance is similar to gel cell
batteries. The charge parameters are similar
to wet cell batteries.
+
+
+
6V
6V
12V INVERTER
_
_
_
Battery Selection
The most important feature to consider in
making your battery selection is to select true
deep cycle batteries rated in Amp-hours (AH)
and sized to match your power requirements.
EACH BATTERY
CAPACITY:
220
AMP-HOURS
@ 6 VDC
TOTAL BATTERY
BANK CAPACITY:
220
AMP-HOURS
@ 12 VDC
BATTERY INTERCONNECTION
In most cases, you will be using a bank of
two or more batteries with your inverter/
charger. You may connect batteries together in
two configurations, series and parallel
depending on their voltage.
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BATTERIES
Parallel
Connecting two batteries in parallel will
Note: It is not advisable to connect
batteries of different case sizes or Amp-hour
ratings in the same battery bank.
double the Amp-hour rating of the battery bank,
while the voltage will be the same as each
individual battery. Example, two 12 volt 105
Amp-hour batteries in parallel will produce one
12 volt 210 Amp-hour battery bank.
Always use properly sized wire and
terminals for your interconnecting battery
cables. For size information refer to NEC
requirements or contact your local
electrician.
+
+
BATTERY BANK RATINGS AND SIZING
Deep-cycle batteries are usually rated in
Amp-hours. The Amp-hour rating is based on
a 20-hour discharge rate, therefore, a 100
Amp-hour battery can deliver 5 Amps for 20
hours. If the discharge rate is greater than 5
Amps, the available Amp-hours are de-
creased. For example, if the load is increased
to 100 Amps, only about 45 Amp-hours will be
available at this rate of discharge.
Parallel
Parallel Increase Amp-hour Capacity
Deep-cycle batteries can be discharged
about 80% of capacity before damage occurs.
Shallow cycling will result in much longer
battery life. Calculating a battery bank size
based on 50% discharge cycling is generally
considered to be a good compromise between
long battery life and size.
+
12V
+
+
12V
1
2VINVERTER
_
_
_
EACH BATTERY
CAPACITY:
105
TOTAL BATTERY
BANK CAPACITY:
210
AMP-HOURS
@ 12 VDC
AMP-HOURS
@ 12 VDC
Only similar batteries should be
connected together in one bank. Do not
connect old and new batteries together or wet
and gel cell batteries together. In the above
drawing, the load is connected to the positive
terminal of the first battery and the negative
terminal of the last battery. This practice helps
to balance the battery bank and is called
cross-connecting the battery bank.
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BATTERIES
To achieve 50% cycling you should
calculate your Amp-hour consumption
between charging cycles and use a battery
bank with twice that capacity**. Each AC
appliance or tool has a rating plate on it and will
be rated in either AC Amps or Watts or AC VA
(Volt-Amps) apparent power. To calculate Amp-
hour consumption, use one of the formulas to
the right to calculate the DC Amp-hour draw
for a 12 volt system.
AMP-HOUR CONSUMPTION FORMULAS
(AC Amps x 10) x 1.1 x hours of
operation = DC Amp-hours
(Watts/ DC Voltage) x 1.1 x hours of
operation = DC Amp-hours
(AC VA/ DC Voltage) x 1.1 x hours of
operation = DC Amp-hours
DC Voltage is 12, 24 or 32 depending on
your system.
Calculate the Amp-hours for every AC
appliance or tool that will be operated on the
inverter. This will provide the total number of
Amp-hours used between recharges. Size the
battery bank using this number as a guideline.
A good rule to follow is to size the battery bank
a minimum of 2 times larger than the
In all formulas, 1.1 is the correction factor for
inverter efficiency.
Typical Power Consumptlon
The chart identifies typical power
consumption for common AC loads. Use it as
a guide when identifying your power
requirements.
total Amp-hour load requirement. Plan on
recharging when 50% discharged.
**Batteries are typically charged to 85% of full
charge when charging with alternators without 3-stage
regulators.
Many electric motors have
momentary starting require-
ments well above their opera-
tional rating. Start up watts are
listed where appropriate.
Typical Power Consumption
Appliance Run Times / Amp Hours
Typical
Appliance
Wattage
Individual styles and brands of
appliances may vary.
5 Min. 15 Min. 30 Min. 1 Hr.
2 Hr.
8
3 Hr.
12
8 Hr.
32
24 Hr.
96
13" Color TV
19" Color TV
VCR
50
100
50
.33
.66
.33
.66
2
1
2
2
4
4
8
4
8
16
8
24
64
192
96
If using the same battery
bank for the inverter and other
DC loads, be sure to consider
the power consumption of the
DC loads when sizing the
battery bank.
1
2
12
32
Lamp
100
300
50
2
4
16
24
64
192
Blender
6
12
2
Laptop Computer
Curling Iron
.33
.33
3.3
1
4
8
50
1
2
3/8 Power Drill
Icemaker*
500
200
1000
150
750
750
1500
1100
10
20
2.6
40
2
5.2
80
4
10.4
160
8
15.6
41.6
83.2
Coffee Maker
3 cu' Refrigerator*
20 cu' Refrigerator*
Compact Microwave
Full Size Microwave
Vacuum
6.6
20
12
32
96
21
30
60
44
42
60
120
88
84
126
180
360
264
336
672
5
15
30
22
120
240
176
10
7.3
NOTE Certain laser printers, breadmakers,
digital clocks and appliance/tool chargers
Number in each box represents the total Amp hours used (@ 12 volt DC) based on various continuous run times.
*Note refrigeration is typically calculated using a 1/3-duty cyle.
may not operate on modified sine wave.
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BATTERY CHARGING
Freedom Battery Chargers
Battery Charging
Completely charging wet cell deep-cycle
Freedom battery chargers are designed
to overcome the limitations of conventional
chargers by utilizing 3 distinct charge stages,
each designed for optimal charging of wet, gel
cell and AGM deep-cycle batteries. Battery
type selection is made on the front panel of the
inverter/charger or through the Remote Control
Panel or a Link Instrumentation. For more
information on battery type selection, see page
7 or refer to the Remote Control Panel manual.
batteries requires the battery voltage to be
raised beyond what is known as the gassing
point. This is the voltage at which the battery
begins to bubble and gas is given off. If
charging stops short of this point, sulfate is left
on the plates and deterioration of the battery
begins. The gassing point will vary with battery
temperature.
At 77 degrees F, the gassing point of a 12
volt battery is about 14.0 volts.
AGM and Gel cell batteries must not be
charged to their gassing point. In fact, high
voltage charging which gasses these batteries
is harmful to them. They typically require a
lower bulk charge voltage and a higher float
voltage than wet cell batteries. Consult the
battery manufacturer for specifications.
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BATTERY CHARGING
NOTE: Freedom battery chargers are ON
whenever AC power is connected to the
charger input. The charger can be turned OFF
using the CHARGE switch on the front of the
unit. This sequence will occur each time
external AC power is available. The charger
can be turned ON/OFF using the Remote
Control Panel or Link Instrumentation.
The battery charger stages are:
Stage 1 - Bulk Charge During the bulk
charge stage most of the energy that has been
consumed during discharge is returned to the
battery bank. This phase is engaged as soon
as the battery charger is activated. Full rated
charger current is delivered to the battery bank
until the bulk charge voltage limit is reached.
This results in a relatively rapid recharge.
Each time the battery charger is engaged,
the 3-stage charger proceeds automatically,
resulting in an efficient complete charge and
safe battery maintenance. Use of the Remote
Control Panel or Link Instrument provides the
ability to periodically apply an equalizing
charge.
Generally, a wet cell battery bank should
not be charged at a rate which exceeds 25% of
its capacity.
Refer to Remote Control Panel or the
Link Instrument Owner’s Manual for more
information.
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BATTERY CHARGING
The float charge stage holds the battery
voltage constant at a preset lower level, where
it is safe for long term battery maintenance.
During the float charge stage, the full output
current of the battery charger is available to
operate any DC appliances that may be on the
system, while constantly maintaining the float
charge voltage.
Gel cell and Advanced AGM batteries can
accept a higher rate of charge. Consult the
manufacturer for specifications.
Stage 2 - Acceptance Charge The
acceptance stage immediately follows the bulk
charge stage. During this stage the
battery voltage is held constant at the bulk
charge voltage limit and the current gradually
ramps down. During this stage the battery is
accepting its final amount of charge current
and the last of the sulfate on the plates is
removed.
The battery charger remains in the float
charge stage indefinitely until the charger is
disconnected from incoming AC power or
turned OFF on the unit or with the Remote
Control Panel or Link Instrumentation.
The acceptance stage lasts until the
charge current reaches the transition point. A
timer will terminate the acceptance stage if this
current level is not reached.
Stage 4 - Equalizing Charge This is the
only battery charger stage which is not
engaged automatically. It must be manually
initiated each time. Applying an equalizing
charge is possible only with a Remote Control
Panel or Link Instrument.
ACCEPTANCE TO FLOAT TRANSITION POINTS
Freedom 15 & 15D
Freedom 20 & 20D
10 Ampere DC
15 Ampere DC
Periodic equalizing is recommended by
most wet cell deep-cycle battery manu-
facturers. There are no firm rules for how
often an equalizing charge should be applied.
Follow the battery manufacturer’s recommen-
dations for equalizing.
Maximum acceptance time is 1 hour for
wet and AGM cells and 3 hours for gel cells.
Gel cell acceptance time can be longer
because they are less likely to gas. Expect wet
cell batteries to gas somewhat during
acceptance, this is a necessary part of the
charging process.
NOTE: The acceptance stage timer is not
used when Link Instruments control the
charger. Refer to the Link Owner’s Manual.
Stage 3 - Float Charge When the
acceptance stage is terminated, either
because the charge current ramped down to
the transition point or the timer engaged, the
charge current will shut off. The unit monitors
the battery voltage while it drifts down from the
acceptance charge voltage limit. When it
reaches the float voltage set point, the float
charge stage is engaged.
17
Part No. 90-0123-00
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BATTERY CHARGING
The equalizing charge is a timed, 8-hour
cycle. The cycle can be ended early by inter-
rupting the AC power to the charger at any
time during the cycle. Equalizing should only
be engaged after the batteries have been fully
charged by a normal battery charging cycle.
During this equalizing stage, the battery
voltage will increase to the equalize voltage.
This will cause the battery bank to gas
profusely and will accomplish the following:
1. Removal of residual sulfate. Each time a
battery is cycled (discharged and charged), a
small amount of sulfate is left on the plates.
Over time, this gradual build-up of sulfate will
compromise the performance of the battery.
By applying an equalizing charge, the sulfate is
returned back to the electrolyte, raising the
specific gravity and fully exposing the active
material of the plates.
2. Bring all cells to the same potential. All
lead-acid batteries are made up of individual 2
volt cells. As the battery bank is cycled, slight
differences in the cells result in different cell
voltages, affecting the overall charge
effectiveness. Equalizing brings all cells to the
same voltage and the electrolyte in each cell to
the same specific gravity.
3. Mixing up of the electrolyte. Electrolyte in
battery cells tend to separate into layers of acid
and water. The vigorous bubbling action of the
battery during equalizing serves to physically
mix the electrolyte. Refer to the Remote
Control Panel and Link Owner’s Manuals for
additional cautions on equalizing.
Note: Do not equalize gel cell batteries.
18
Part No. 90-0123-00
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BATTERY CHARGING
WARNINGS
1. Do not equalize gel cell batteries.
Check remote default settings.
2. Always monitor the equalize charge
cycle. Provide proper ventilation for
battery fumes. Do not allow any sparks
during equalizing. If one or more cells
begin to overflow, terminate the equalize
cycle.
3. Check the battery electrolyte both
before and after the equalizing charge.
Do not expose the battery plates to air.
Leave the battery caps on while
equalizing. Top off after equalizing.
4. Remove all loads from the DC
system before equalizing. Some DC
loads may not tolerate the high charge
voltage.
5. With the Remote Control Panel the
battery state-of-charge LEDs sequence
during equalizing. When the equalization
cycle is complete, the charge automati-
cally goes to float and the green float LED
battery status light is on. With Link
Instrumentation, the red charge LED
flashes during the equalizing cycle. When
the equalization cycle is complete, the
charger automatically goes to float and the
green float LED is illuminated.
19
Part No. 90-0123-00
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BATTERY CHARGER VOLTAGE SETTINGS
TEMP
TYPE 0
TYPE 1
Gel 1 *
TYPE 2
Gel 2 *
TYPE 3
AGM
Wet Cell
°F
120
110
100
90
°C ACCEPT FLOAT ACCEPT FLOAT ACCEPT FLOAT ACCEPT FLOAT
49
43
38
32
27
12.5
13.6
13.8
14.0
14.2
14.4
14.6
14.8
15.0
15.2
12.5
12.7
12.9
13.1
13.3
13.5
13.7
13.9
14.1
14.3
13.0
13.5
13.7
13.8
14.0
14.1
14.3
14.4
14.6
14.7
13.0
13.0
13.2
13.3
13.5
13.6
13.8
13.9
14.1
14.2
13.0
14.0
14.1
14.2
14.3
14.4
14.5
14.6
14.7
14.8
13.0
13.4
13.5
13.6
13.7
13.8
13.9
14.0
14.1
14.2
12.9
13.9
14.0
14.1
14.2
14.3
14.4
14.5
14.6
14.7
12.9
12.9
13.0
13.1
13.2
13.3
13.4
13.5
13.6
13.7
80
70 ** 21 **
60
50
40
30
16
10
5
-1
* There are two gel battery settings. Check with the battery manufacturer to determine the
proper setting for your batteries. Usually, Gel 1 is for long battery life; Gel 2 is for rapid charging.
**Default setting when the temperature sensor is not connected.
20
Part No. 90-0123-00
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INSTALLATION PRECAUTIONS
Confirm that your shipping carton contains:
CAUTION This equipment is not ignition
protected and employs components that can
produce arcs or sparks. To reduce the risk of
fire or explosions, do not install in
unvented compartments containing
batteries or flammable gasses or areas in
which ignition-protected equipment is required.
• Inverter/Charger
• TSC temperature sensor with 15’ cable
• Owners Manual
• Warranty Card
• Jumper for AUX Switch (only used without
Remote Control Panel or Link Instrument)
• Wire Nuts
WARNING
Typical Tools Needed
Flathead and Phillips Screwdrivers
Allen (Hex) Screwdriver (1/8”)
Wrench for connecting battery cables (9/16”)
Wire Cutters
Wire Strippers
Misc. assortment of wire ties and connectors
For continued protection against risk of
electric shock, use only the ground-fault
circuit interrupter (GFCI) type receptacles
detailed in this manual. Other types may
fail to operate properly when connected to
this inverter, resulting in a potential shock
hazard.
Accessories Needed for Installation
Fuse - UL Listed DC Rated slow blow fuse as
required by NEC
CAUTION To reduce the risk of electric shock
and prevent premature failure due to corrosion,
do not mount where exposed to rain,
dripping or spray.
Electrical wire (10 gauge) for AC input wiring.
Consult NEC for proper size for output wiring.
Battery Cables 1- Positive, 1-Negative
Consult NEC for proper size
DC fuse cable
Mounting Screws (4)
CAUTION To reduce the risk of fire, do not
obstruct ventilation openings. Do not mount
in a zero clearance compartment,
overheating may result.
CAUTION Risk of electrical shock. Both
AC & DC voltage sources are terminated
inside this equipment. Before servicing
disconnect all inputs and outputs.
Freedom 15D
The Freedom 15D and 20D have
dual AC Outputs.
21
Part No. 90-0123-00
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INSTALLATION
CAUTION Risk of electrical shock. Do not
remove cover, no user serviceable parts
inside. Refer servicing to qualified service
personnel.
5. Keep the overall length of each battery
cable less than 10 feet. Do not use frame
ground or a ground bonding system as a
current carrying conductor. Run the negative(-)
cable directly to the battery bank. If the positive
(+) and negative (-) cables run parallel to each
other, twist the cables together. This will
minimize the inductive adverse effects of cable
length. Be sure the cable size meets with NEC
requirements for your installation.
The Freedom Combi is appropriate for
installation in recreational vehicles (RV), and
other applications.
It is recommended that installation be
completed by an authorized Heart Interface
technical dealer or experienced electrician.
6. Make sure all wiring conforms to local
and national electrical codes. If in doubt,
consult with a qualified electrician.
Key Installation Points
1. The unit is designed to mount
horizontally (on a shelf).
7. To meet electrical codes, a UL Listed DC
Rated slow blow fuse must be installed in the
positive battery cable within 18 inches of the
battery post. This fuse is intended to protect
the battery and cables against a short circuit.
The inverter is protected internally and will not
blow a properly sized fuse.
2. Allow several inches of clearance around
the unit to permit a supply of fresh air to the
cooling fan. Do not block any of the vents or
louvers. The thermostat controlled fan pulls air
from outside the unit. It pulls air across the
internal components, particularly the trans-
former and heat sinks, then out the fan vent.
3. Keep the inverter/charger out of the
elements and out of direct contact with
water or spray. Failure to do so may result in
premature malfunction from corrosion and void
the warranty.
8. Do not connect the battery until you
have read the remainder of the installation
section. Observe proper polarity when
connecting batteries. Reverse DC polarity will
result in damage to the unit and will void the
warranty. Use care when making the DC
connections.
4. Mount the unit as close to the batteries
as possible but not in the presence of
flammable fumes or in an enclosed battery
compartment.
WARNING
WARNING
The Freedom Series is not DC reverse
polarity protected. Be very careful to
connect the negative and positive cables
correctly, otherwise damage will result and
the warranty will be void.
Do not mount the unit in an enclosed
battery compartment. Take precautions to
keep dirt and spray off the unit.
22
Part No. 90-0123-00
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INSTALLATION
9. Do not back-feed the AC output of the
inverter with incoming AC power. A
back-feed occurs when AC power from shore
power or generator is connected to the output
of the inverter. This will damage the inverter
and void the warranty. Remember that
two places with a pressure of 15 tons using a
hexagonal die. The T&B die has a code
number of 54. After the crimp is made, the
barrel of the terminal and the first inch of the
cable needs to be covered in UL Listed or UL
Recognized heat shrink tubing. Heart Interface
recommends a 2-inch length of 3M HDT 0800
incoming AC must be fed only to the AC input
and never the AC output. Always check for AC tubing. Other heat shrink may be used if it is
voltage before connecting wires to the AC
output. Do NOT turn the inverter ON until all
AC connections have been made. Back-
feeding the inverter voids the warranty.
UL Listed or UL Recognized as long as the
manufacturer’s directions are followed.
12. If installing in a system which includes an
existing battery charger or AC to DC converter,
make sure these do not operate from the
inverter output AC power. This sets up a
power loop which, due to inefficiencies, will
quickly drain the batteries.
WARNING
Do not connect incoming AC from any
source to the AC output of the inverter.
This is known as back-feeding and will
damage the unit and void the warranty.
13. An Auxiliary Switch port is located on the
front panel of the unit, covered by a flap. When
installing the unit for operation without a
Remote Control Panel or Link Instrument, a
jumper must be installed in the Aux Switch
port. The jumper is shipped in a plastic bag
with other installation parts. DO NOT install
the jumper until all cable connections have
been made.
10. Do not connect the AC input to the AC
output. This would be equivalent to plugging
the battery charger into the inverter. This could
occur if the unit’s AC output is connected to
the entire leg of a circuit breaker panel, then a
circuit breaker on that leg is used to feed the
battery charger input. This will cause the unit
to oscillate ON and OFF when the unit is in
inverter mode.
When using a Remote Control Panel or
Link Instrument, the jumper is not used.
11. Always use proper wire and
connectors. The proper battery cable size is
critical. Considerable amperage flows in the
DC circuit. Use 2/0 UL Listed Welding Cable
terminated on each end with UL Listed or UL
Recognized ring terminal connectors. For the
terminal, use Thomas & Betts (T&B) part
number BAL 2038. Be sure the connectors are
attached to the cable using a method approved
by the connector manufacturer. For the
connections to meet all requirements, T&B
recommends that each terminal be crimped in
Auxiliary Switch Port
Jumper
Actual size 3/8”L x 3/16”W
Freedom 20D
23
Part No. 90-0123-00
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INSTALLATION
Note: The battery cables are not
connected to the AC ground strip or to the
chassis lug of the unit.
Grounding
For safety purposes, the chassis of the
inverter/charger must be connected to your AC
ground system. Use 8 AWG bare copper or
green insulated wire, strip one end and use a
screwdriver to secure it to the chassis ground
bonding lug on the side of the unit. This wire
will connect to the ground in your AC electrical
system. Make sure the connection is clean and
tight.
Neutral Bonding
For safety purposes and NEC code
requirements, the Freedom Combi unit
internally bonds the AC output neutral (white)
to the AC output ground (green), when the unit
is OFF or in the inverter mode. When
incoming AC power is applied and the transfer
switch is engaged, the internal neutral-to-
ground bond is automatically lifted.
The system AC ground bonding terminal
is located on the front of the unit under the
wiring cover at the bottom of the unit. This
connector is for the bare copper or green
ground wires from the AC branch circuit supply
and to the AC loads or distribution panel. It is
important that these AC input and AC output
ground wires connect to the AC ground bus in
the circuit breaker panels.
When external AC power is applied, the
grounding system is connected to the source
power ground, where neutral and earth ground
are bonded together. This technique insures
safety in all conditions and conforms to the
requirements of the NEC.
Some installations require heavier
grounding wire. Conform to local and national
electrical codes.
WARNING
More information on grounding can be
found in the National Electrical Code and
local electrical codes.
Do not connect incoming AC from any
source to the AC output of the inverter/
charger. This is known as back-feeding
and will damage the unit and void the
warranty. The Over Temp/Overload and
Low Battery LEDs will be blinking rapidly if
this condition exists.
Freedom 20D
Ground Lug
24
Part No. 90-0123-00
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INSTALLATION
AC Wiring
The AC wires route through the strain
rated circuit breakers will be required between
the inverter/charger and the loads.
relief mounted in holes on the front of the unit.
Use a screwdriver to remove the screws
which secure the AC wiring compartment
cover plate. Depending upon which model you
have, there can be one or two AC inputs and
one or two AC outputs within the AC wiring
compartment. The labeling for the pigtails is on
the front of the unit and is visible when the
cover plate is removed. Note: Green wires are
connected to the AC Ground Strip.
Feed one or two 3 conductor AC input
wire(s) through the strain relief and into the AC
wiring compartment. Allow 6 inches of
individual insulated black, white and green wire
to work with. Strip 1/2 inch of insulation off
each conductor and connect to the pigtails:
Black to Black, White to White, and Green to
AC Ground Strip.
Use the wire nuts provided to make the
wire connections. You may chose to use butt
splices (not included) to make the wire
connections.
Black . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hot or Line
White . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Neutral
Conventional metal strain reliefs are
provided. These can be replaced with plastic
strain reliefs for additional corrosion resistance
or 3/4 inch conduit fittings if the wiring will be
routed through a conduit.
AC Output: Depending on the model you
have, feed one or two 3 conductor AC output
wire groups for the two branch circuit loads
through its strain relief. Remember to allow 6
inches of individual insulated black, white and
green wire to work with. Strip 1/2 inch of
insulation off each conductor and connect to
the pigtails: Black to Black, White to White,
and Green to AC Ground Strip.
Appropriate wire gauges must be used
throughout the installation. Refer to NEC
specifications.
AC Input: All inputs from other AC
sources must be protected by branch circuit
rated circuit breakers.
Tug firmly on each connection to make
sure they are secure. Lter, if the unit is not
operating properly, check these connections
first. Carefully tuck the wires into the AC wiring
compartment. Replace the cover plate.
In the United States, no additional circuit
breakers are required between the inverter/
charger and the loads if the service to the
inverter/charger is protected by a 20 ampere
branch circuit rated breaker. This also applies
to Dual Input models where the inputs may be
20 amperes each. In Canada, 15 ampere
branch circuit(s) maximum shall provide the
service.
Dual AC Output
STRAIN
RELIEF
STRAIN
RELIEF
If a 30 ampere service supplies the
inverter/charger, additional 20 ampere (15
ampere in Canada) maximum branch circuit
AC OUTPUT 2
ACGROUND
STRIP
INPUT
AC OUTPUT 1
25
Part No. 90-0123-00
Libertycombi.p65 10/26/98
INSTALLATION
Ground Fault Circult Interrupters
To conform to NEC regulations, certain
branch circuits must be equipped with a
DC Wiring
DC wiring is generally very simple, the
positive (+, may be red for identification) and
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). Please negative (-, may be black or yellow for
consult the code or a qualified electrician for
details. Any such branch circuits must be
protected by a brand rated circuit breaker
consistent with the GFCI rating. Underwriters
Laboratories has tested the following GFCI,
and its use is recommended. Receptacle
Type:
identification) cables from the inverter/charger
terminal posts are connected to the house or
auxiliary battery. Connection to the engine
starter battery is not recommended.
High current will pass through the DC
wiring. All wires must be properly sized and
all connections clean and tight. It is
recommended that the battery cable length
does not exceed 10 feet.
Pass & Seymour
Catalog Number 1591
Rated: 15 Amps at 120 Volts AC
Battery cables should be connected to the
inverter/charger before any connections are
made to the battery. Follow the battery
hardware stackup diagram.
Remote Control Wiring
If installing a remote panel, route the
remote cable and connect to the Remote jack
on the front of the unit. Refer to the Remote
Control Panel or Link Owner’s Manual for more
information.
• Remove the negative (-) battery cable
cover from the unit and attach the battery
cable. Tighten the battery terminal bolts to a
torque value between 160 inch-pounds and
180 inch--pounds. Replace the cover for the
negative terminal before removing the cover for
the positive terminal.
TSC Temperature Sensor
If installing the TSC (Temperature
Sensitive Charging) sensor, connect the ring
terminal end to the positive battery post,
complete the routing of the RJ11 cable (15 feet
supplied) and connect the plug end to the TSC
jack on the front of the unit
Battery Cable
Hardware Stackup
Diagram
Bolt
Lock Washer
Flat Washer
TSC Jack
RJ11 Cable
Battery
Battery Cable
Inverter/Charger
CAUTION Improper stackup may result in
excessive heat and damage to the unit.
Freedom 20D shown.
WARNING
Freedom Inverter/Chargers are not protected against DC reverse polarity. Be very careful to connect the
negative and positive cables correctly or damage will result and the warranty will be void.
26
Part No. 90-0123-00
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INSTALLATION
• Remove the positive (+) battery cable
terminal cover from the unit and attach the
battery cable. Tighten the battery terminal bolts
to a torque value between 160 inch-pounds
and 180 inch-pounds. Replace the cover for
the positive terminal.
If multiple battery banks are to be
charged, a battery bank selector switch can be
installed, allowing the banks to be charged
either individually or simultaneously. A solenoid
can also be used. The PathMaker Battery
Combiner, by Heart Interface, may be used to
connect multiple battery banks. The
The negative (-) cable should be
connected directly to the negative post of the
house or auxiliary battery bank or the ground
side of a current shunt. Tighten securely.
PathMaker battery combiner is available from
your Heart dealer.
The positive (+) battery cable must be
fused and connected to the positive post of the
house or auxiliary battery bank, or through a
selector switch to one or more battery banks.
A spark may be generated when the final
battery connection is made. This is normal; do
not be alarmed. However, do not make the final
connection in the presence of flammable
fumes.
If multiple batteries are used, the
interconnecting jumper cables must be the
same AWG or larger as those connected to
the inverter/charger.
PathMaker 100, 2 Channel
NOTE: If installing in a vehicle, do not use the
vehicle frame as the negative conductor.
PathMaker Models
70 Amp, 2 Channel
100 Amp, 2 Channel
100 Amp, 3 Channel
200 Amp, 2 Channel
200 Amp, 3 Channel
POSITIVE (+)
(Battery Cable
Cover on)
NEGATIVE (-)
(Battery Cable
Cover on)
Freedom 15D
27
Part No. 90-0123-00
Libertycombi.p65 10/26/98
INSTALLATION
For Freedom 15 & 15D
Battery Cable Fusing
200 Amp Fuse & Holder PN# 84-4155-00 (C/R)*
200 Amp Fuse & Holder PN# 84-4158-00 (R/R)**
A fuse is required by the NEC to protect
the battery and cables. A UL Listed DC rated
slow blow fuse must be installed in the positive
(+) battery cable, within 18 inches of the
battery.
200 Amp Fuse Only
PN# 84-4157-00
For Freedom 20 & 20D
300 Amp Fuse & Holder PN# 84-4156-00 (C/R)*
300 Amp Fuse & Holder PN# 84-4154-00 (R/R)**
Recommended Fuse: UL Listed Class T
JLLN with a DC Rating. This fuse with fuse
holder is available from your dealer or Heart
Interface.
300 Amp Fuse Only
PN# 84-4151-00
* Compression / Ring Terminal
** Ring / Ring Terminal
_
+
+ (red)
EXPLODEDVIEW
OF FUSE ASSEMBLY
COMPRESSION / RING TERMINAL
NUT
RING / RING TERMINAL
LOCK WASHER
FLAT WASHER
BATTERY
NUT
LOCK WASHER
FLAT WASHER
INVERTER
CABLE
CABLE
INVERTER
CABLE
FUSE
BATTERY
CABLE
FUSE
FUSE HOLDER
FUSE HOLDER
WARNING
Improper stack up of hardware will cause
excessive heat and fuse failure. Stack up
as shown.
28
Part No. 90-0123-00
Libertycombi.p65 10/26/98
INSTALLATION
Follow these instructions to insure proper
start up and confirm that the installation is
correct.
WARNING
Do not turn the inverter ON before
1. Check to make sure Invert and Charge
are OFF. The INVERT LED should not be
illuminated, the CHARGE LED should be
blinking (charger ready but no external AC
power available). If using a Remote Control
Panel or a Link Instrument, make sure inverter
and charger are OFF.
eliminating any possibility of backfeed.
• Add a load of 7 watts or more to the output
of the inverter. A 40 watt incandescent light
bulb will work fine. The DC Amps LEDs on the
remote will indicate the DC draw from the
battery through the inverter.
2. Check battery polarity. If the unit was
connected to the battery with reverse polarity,
the unit will be damaged.
• Leave the load connected and turn OFF
the INVERT mode by pressing the INVERT
switch or turn OFF the INVERT mode from the
Remote Control Panel or Link Instrument.
3. Check the battery voltage and ensure
it is within proper range for the unit (10-15.5
VDC).
2. Test the transfer function:
• Be sure the unit is OFF, the INVERT and
CHARGE LEDs are not illuminated. Apply
shore power. If there is a back-feed in the
installation, the unit will protect itself, the LOW
BATTERY and OVERTEMP/OVERLOAD LED
will both be blinking rapidly (5 times per
second). Do not proceed until the backfeed
condition has been corrected.
4. Install the jumper in the Auxiliary
Switch port (AUX SWITCH), if using the in-
verter without remote. If operating the inverter
with a remote, the jumper should not be used.
Do not apply shore power or
generator power without preforming the
following steps:
• Once shore power has been applied to the
unit, there will be approximately an 8 second
delay. Then the unit should transfer shore
power and power the load. If this does not
happen, do not proceed. If the LOW BATTERY
and OVERLOAD/OVERTEMP LEDs are blink-
ing rapidly or if you are using a Remote Control
Panel or Link Instrument, check the panel for
back-feed indication. The panel will show an
overload condition. Eliminate the back-feed
condition.
1. Test the inverter function:
• With no loads connected to the output of
the inverter, turn the INVERT Switch ON. The
INVERT LED should be blinking green. If using
a remote, turn ON the inverter with the switch
on the Remote Control Panel or Link
Instrument.
• The Freedom unit will produce a slight
buzz. If using a Remote Control Panel or Link
Instrument the INVERT/ CHARGE LEDs will
illuminate and the voltage indicator will display
the battery voltage. The DC Amps LED will not
be lit because the unit is in the idle mode.
Freedom 15D
29
Part No. 90-0123-00
Libertycombi.p65 10/26/98
INSTALLATION
• Testing for backfeed. If a backfeed
condition is indicated, disconnect from shore
power and disconnect the AC output wires on
the inverter. Make sure the inverter is OFF.
Apply shore power and measure for
• Turn the INVERT ON, the green LED
should blink. Remove shore power and the
inverter should automatically pick up the AC
load when shore power is removed.
NOTE: For low power system shut down
mode, both the INVERT and CHARGE LEDs
must be OFF.
voltage between the black and white wires that
were attached to the inverter output feeding the
electrical panel or loads, not the inverter output
wires. If there is voltage on these wires, a
back-feed condition exists and must be
corrected or damage will result.
Repeat the test for transfer and battery
charger with the generator if you have one.
Congratulations, you have completed a
successful installation.
3. Test the battery charger function:
• With shore power applied and the
transfer switch engaged, the battery charger
should be in operation. The CHARGE LED will
blink for 8 seconds. After the 8 seconds, the
unit will enter the charge mode and the LED
will be illuminated. (NOTE: When using
Temperature Sensitive Charging, this time may
be longer.)
NOTE: When AC is available, the unit will
automatically default to charge mode without
the operator setting the unit in CHARGE mode.
It is necessary to press the CHARGE switch
OFF, if you do not want to charge.
Freedom 20D
Verify the charger is working by using a
volt meter. The battery voltage should gradually
increase. If using a Remote Control Panel, the
DC Amps LED indicates the current the
charger is putting out and the DC Volts LED
indicates an increase in battery voltage.
30
Part No. 90-0123-00
Libertycombi.p65 10/26/98
TROUBLESHOOTING LED STATUS
LED Status
Operation Status
Notes
INVERT
CHARGE
LOW BATTERY
OVERTEMP
OVERLOAD
Solid Green
Blinking Green OFF
OFF
Inverting. Charger ready but no
external AC available.
Normal
Blinking
Green
Solid Green
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
*
Inverter is in standby.
Battery is being charged.
Normal, charging current
limited if AC load exceeds
Power Sharing setting.
Blinking
Green
Inverter is in istandby.
Charger manually turned off.
If AC power is removed
and reapplied, the charger
will automatically turn ON.
OFF
Solid Green
Inverter OFF. Charging.
Reset the inverter by
pushing INVERT button.
LED should blink.
Solid Green
Blinking Green Solid Red
Inverting. Charger ready but no
external AC available. Battery
Voltage Warning:
Warning. Battery voltage
less than 10 or more than
15 volts
10V<VDC>15V
Solid Green
OFF
Blinking Green
*
Solid Red
*
Inverting. Charger ready but no
external AC available. Over-
temperature Warning
Warning. Inverter shutdown.
Blinking Green Slow Blinking
Red
Battery Voltage shutdown:
10V< VDC >15V
Inverter Shutdown.
Operation will resume when
battery reaches 13.5 volts
OFF
Blinking Green
Blinking Green
*
*
Slow Blinking
Red
Charger ready but no external
AC power available. Charger
over-temperature Shutdown
Operation will automatically
resume after unit has
cooled down
OFF
OFF
Fast Blinking
Red
Inverter Overload Shutdown
Reduce AC load. Manually
restart the system
Blinking Green Fast Blinking
Red
Fast Blinking
Red
Backfeed Shutdown. Incorrect
AC wiring
Correct AC in wiring before
use. Manually restart the
system.
OFF
Blinking Green Fast Blinking
Red
OFF
Battery Ripple
Warning
* Could be either ON or OFF status.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem
Things to Check
1. Battery voltage under load below 10 volts. Charge batteries.
2. Loose battery connections, open battery switch or blown DC fuse.
Tighten connections or replace fuse.
3. Tripped circuit breaker on front panel. Push-in to reset breaker.
4. Thermal condition, excessive loads or inadequate ventilation
caused overheating. Allow to cool. Ventilate the compartment.
5. Overloads or short circuit, check for excessive loads or shorted
wiring. Disconnect loads.
No Inverter Output
6. Check the position of the jumper in the Auxiliary Switch Port. Install
jumper when operating unit without a remote.
Confirm that your volt meter is a True RMS meter. Standard volt
meters will not accurately read the waveform of the inverter and may
read anywhere from 90 to 120 volts. If a True RMS meter is not
available, check the brightness of an incandescent light bulb - if it
appears normal, the output voltage is properly regulated.
Low Inverter
Output Voltage
1. Wiring - check both the AC and DC connections.
2. AC input voltage - low voltage input will result in low DC output
current. Expect reduced charger output from generators under 3,500
watts.
3. Check power share setting if using a remote panel.
4. Check the position of the jumper in the Auxiliary Switch Port if not
using a remote panel.
Little or No Output
from Battery
Charger
1. Microwave ovens will normally cook slower on inverter power
because the modified sine wave output has a slightly low peak AC
voltage.
2. Cooking speed will be determined by battery voltage. Low voltage
results in increased cooking time. Support the battery bank with an
alternator or other charging source for quicker cooking.
Microwave Oven
Cooking Slow
1. Digital clocks either employ an internal time base or derive their
time base from the incoming AC waveform. The inverter frequency is
well regulated at 60 Hz. The clock either counts the number of peaks
in the waveform or the number of times the waveform crosses zero
volts. The circuitry that counts the zero crossing events is more
popular. The longer zero cross time of the inverter’s modified sine
wave may cause double clocking, resulting in a faster clock.
Slow or Fast
Digital Clock
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GLOSSARY
Alternating Current (AC) An electric current
that reverses direction at regular intervals.
Sources of alternating current are shore
power, generator power, inverter power or
household current.
first to the positive of the second, negative of
the second to the positive of the third, etc. If
two 6 Volt batteries of 50 ampere-hours
capacity are connected in series, the circuit
voltage is equal to the sum of the two battery
voltages, or 12 Volts, and the ampere-hour
capacity of the combination is 50
Ampere (Amp, A) The unit of measure of
electron flow rate of current through a circuit.
ampere-hours.
Ampere-hour (Amp-Hr., AH) A unit of
measure for a battery’s electrical storage
capacity, obtained by multiplying the current in
amperes by the time in hours of discharge
(Example: a battery which delivers 5 amperes
for 20 hours delivers 5 amperes times 20
hours, or 100 Amp-Hr. of capacity.)
Circuit (Parallel) A circuit which provides
more than one path for current flow. A parallel
arrangement of batteries (of like voltage and
capacity) would have all positive terminals
connected to a conductor and all negative
terminals connected to another conductor. If
two 12 Volt batteries of 50 ampere-hour
capacity each are connected in parallel, the
circuit voltage is 12 Volts, and the ampere-hour
capacity of the combination is 100
Ampere-Hour Capacity The ability of a fully
charged battery to deliver a specified quantity
of electricity (Amp-Hr., AH) at a given rate
(Amp, A) over a definite period of time (Hr.).
The capacity of a battery depends upon a
number of factors such as: active material,
weight, density, adhesion to grid, number,
design and dimensions of plates, plate spacing
design of separators, specific gravity and
ampere-hours.
Combi Freedom CombiTM is a trademark of
Heart Interface to indicate a combination
inverter/charger.
Current The rate of flow of electricity or the
quantity of available electrolyte, grid alloys, final movement rate of electrons along a conductor.
limiting voltage, discharge rate, temperature, It is comparable to the flow of a stream of
internal and external resistance, age and life of water. The unit of measure for current is
the battery (bank).
ampere.
AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) Battery A lead
Cycle In a battery, one discharge plus one
acid, maintenance-free battery.
recharge equals one cycle.
AWG (American Wire Gauge) A standard
used to measure the size of wire.
Direct Current (DC) Current that flows
continuously in one direction such as that from
batteries, photovoltaics, alternators, chargers
and DC generators.
Circuit An electric circuit is the path of an
electric current. A closed circuit has a
complete path. An open circuit has a broken or
disconnected path.
Circuit (Series) A circuit which has only one
path for the current to flow. Batteries arranged
in series are connected with the negative of the
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GLOSSARY
Equalize Charge A controlled overcharge of
the batteries which brings all cells up to the
same voltage potential, extends the battery life,
restores capacity and mixes the electrolyte.
This can only be done using the Freedom
Remote Control Panel or a Link Instrument.
Ohm A unit for measuring electrical
resistance.
Ohm’s Law Expresses the relationship
between Voltage (V) and Current (I) in an
electrical circuit with resistance (R). It can be
expressed as follows: V=IR. If any two of the
three values are known, the third value can be
calculated by using the above formula.
Gel Cell Battery A type of battery that uses a
gelled electrolyte solution. These batteries are
sealed and are virtually maintenance-free. Not
all sealed batteries are the gel cell type.
Positive Designating or pertaining to electrical
potential; opposite of negative. The positive
battery terminal is the point where electrons
return to the battery during discharge.
GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) A
protective device that rapidly de-energizes a
circuit when current to ground exceeds a
predetermined value.
Power Sharing The feature of the charger to
reduce its output when the AC power being
consumed by the charger and external AC
loads connected to the output of the inverter
are in excess of the input breaker rating.
Ground The reference potential of a circuit. In
automotive use, the result of attaching one
battery cable to the body or frame which is
used as a path for completing a circuit in lieu of
a direct wire from a component. This method
is not suitable for connecting the negative
cable of the inverter to ground. Instead, route
the cable directly to the negative terminal of the
battery.
TSC Abbreviation for Temperature Sensitive
Charging. The ability of the charger to adjust its
charging voltage based on the temperature
sensed at the battery bank if a temperature
probe is used.
Volt The unit of measure for electric potential.
LED (Light Emitting Diode) Indicator light.
Watt The unit for measuring electrical power,
i.e., the rate of doing work, in moving electrons
by or against an electric potential.
LINK Instrument These panels monitor single
and dual battery banks. Some models provide
remote management of Freedom Inverter/
Chargers. Available in 4 models: LINK 10,
LINK 20, LINK 1000, LINK 2000, LINK 2000R.
Watt-Hour (Watt-HR, WH) The unit for
measuring electrical energy which equals
Watts x Hours.
NEC National Electric Code
Wet Cell Battery A type of battery that uses
liquid as an electrolyte. The wet cell battery
requires periodic maintenance; cleaning the
connections, checking the electrolyte level and
performing an equalization cycle.
Negative Designating or pertaining to
electrical potential. The negative terminal is the
point from which electrons flow during
discharge.
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SPECIFICATIONS
Model
15 and 15D* (458 Series)
81-1510-12 and 81-1520-12
12 VDC
20 and 20D* (458 Series)
81-2010-12 and 81-2020-12
12 VDC
Part Number
Nominal Battery Voltage
Battery Voltage Range
Low Battery Cutout
AC Input Voltage Range
10.0 - 15.5 VDC (+/-0.2)
10.0 VDC (+/-0.5)
10.0 - 15.5 VDC (+/-0.2)
10.0 VDC (+/-0.5)
Minimum 90 VAC
Normal 130 VAC
Minimum 90 VAC
Normal 130 VAC
Frequency Regulation
50 or 60 Hz Quartz Regulated
1500 VA
50 or 60 Hz Quartz Regulated
2000 VA
Inverter Output Power
(Continuous)
Inverter Voltage Regulation
Wave Shape
120V +/- 5% True RMS
Modified Sine Wave
55 Amps
120V +/- 5% True RMS
Modified Sine Wave
70 Amps
Surge Power
No Load Current Drain
(Idle Mode)
.12 Amp
.12 Amp
Power Factors Allowed
Full Load Efficiency
Peak Efficiency
Protection
All
All
86% (60 Hz)
92%
85% (60 Hz)
93%
Over/Under Utility Voltage, Over/Under
Battery Voltage, Short-Circuit, Circuit
Breaker, Over Temperature, Backfeed
Over/Under Utility Voltage, Over/Under
Battery Voltage, Short-Circuit, Circuit
Breaker, Over Temperature, Backfeed
Charging Rate
75 Amps (3-stage)
17 Amps
100 Amps (3-stage)
21 Amps
AC Input
(Max. Charge Mode)
Bulk Charge Voltage
Float Charge Voltage
Equalizing Charge Voltage
Status Panel
14.3 VDC**
14.3 VDC**
13.4 VDC**
13.4 VDC**
16.3 VDC**
16.3 VDC**
Optional Remote or Link Instruments
56 lbs.
Optional Remote or Link Instruments
56 lbs.
Weight
Dimensions
13.2"L x 11.5"W x 7.9"H
13.2"L x 11.5"W x 7.9"H
* Dual AC Output
** Variable on unit with Temperature Sensor installed and adjustable by Battery Type selected on the inverter/charger
control panel or from the Remote Control Panel.
The Freedom 15, 15D, 20 and 20D are UL and cUL Listed.
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WARRANTY
Your Heart Interface Freedom 458 Series
CombiTM Inverter/Charger is under limited
warranty for 30 months from date of purchase.
Terms of this warranty are detailed on
the warranty registration card. Please
complete this card and return it to Heart
Interface to register your warranty.
If the unit requires service, contact Heart
Interface by telephone. The service technician
will ask for the model and serial number of your
unit. Please have this information ready.
Phone numbers:
(253) 872-7225
(800) 446-6180(outside 253 area code)
A return authorization number will be
required on all returns. This number is issued
by the service technician and should be written
on the outside of the packaging
You must ship the unit to Heart Interface
or a field service center freight prepaid.
Inverter/Chargers
© 1998 Heart Interface Corporation. All rights reserved.
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