Victron Battery Isolators

Victron Battery Isolators in Annapolis

Marine Electric Systems sells and installs Victron Energy equipment in Annapolis, Maryland. Browse Victron Argo Diode and Argo FET battery isolators — for splitting alternator output across 2 or 3 banks without parallel-connecting batteries of different ages or chemistries.

Argo FET is the right answer for any boat with lithium house and lead-acid starting. Call (410) 263-0807 to discuss your bank architecture. We serve Annapolis, Baltimore, the Eastern Shore, Northern Virginia, and the greater Washington DC area.

Related: all Victron products | Victron DC-DC Converters

Victron Battery Isolators FAQ

What's the difference between a diode isolator and a FET isolator?

Both let one alternator charge several banks while keeping the banks from discharging into each other. A diode isolator loses some voltage across its diodes, so the batteries may see less than the alternator's output unless that's compensated for. A FET isolator uses electronic switches (MOSFETs) with a much lower voltage drop, and it runs cooler.

Should I use an isolator or a DC-DC charger?

An isolator splits the alternator's output but doesn't change the charge voltage or limit current to each bank. If your banks need different charge profiles, or you want to limit how much current a bank can pull from the alternator, a DC-DC charger is the alternative. The right choice depends on your alternator, regulator, and battery types.

Will an isolator work with my alternator?

Usually, but some alternators need their voltage sense or excitation wiring changed when an isolator goes in, or they won't start charging or will undercharge. Check how your alternator is regulated before you install. Our high-output alternator installation page covers charging setups in more depth.