Description
xVictron Argodiode 160-2AC Battery Isolator 2 Batteries 160A
The Victron Argodiode 160-2AC is a diode-based battery isolator designed to charge two separate battery banks simultaneously from a single alternator or charger, without allowing current to flow between them. It is suited to marine, vehicle and off-grid applications where battery bank isolation is a fundamental requirement.
Key Features
- 160A continuous current rating supports high-demand charging systems with a single alternator input.
- Two isolated outputs allow simultaneous charging of two independent battery banks from one source.
- Diode-based isolation prevents discharge from one battery bank to another, protecting starter and service batteries from cross-drain.
- 2AC designation indicates two alternator/charger inputs and two battery outputs in a compact single unit.
- Aluminium heatsink construction dissipates heat generated by the diode voltage drop during high-current operation.
- SKU: ARG160201020 | GTIN: 8719076019114 | Weight: 1.1 kg
Product Overview
Diode isolators work by allowing current to flow in one direction only. When a charging source is active, current flows from the alternator or charger through the diodes to both battery banks. When the charging source is inactive, the diodes block any reverse flow, so a discharged battery cannot drain its neighbour. This makes the Argodiode particularly useful in dual-battery setups where a starter battery must remain protected from the demands placed on a service or leisure bank.
The 160A rating makes this unit appropriate for systems with a mid-to-large alternator or a high-output battery charger feeding two banks. One practical consideration with diode isolators is the inherent forward voltage drop across the diodes, typically 0.5V to 0.7V. This means the charging voltage reaching the batteries will be slightly lower than the source voltage. In systems using a Victron alternator regulator or a smart charger, this drop can be compensated by adjusting the charge voltage setpoint upward accordingly.
The unit is built around an aluminium heatsink body, which is essential for managing the thermal load at sustained high currents. Correct mounting to a thermally conductive surface or with adequate airflow is important for reliable long-term operation.
Specifications
- Model: Argodiode 160-2AC
- SKU: ARG160201020
- Maximum current: 160A
- Number of battery outputs: 2
- Weight: 1.1 kg
- GTIN: 8719076019114
Applications
- Marine vessels with separate starter and service battery banks charged from a single alternator.
- Campervans and motorhomes requiring isolation between the vehicle starter battery and a leisure battery bank.
- Off-grid cabins or vehicles where two battery banks must be charged from one source without interconnection.
- Commercial vehicles with auxiliary power requirements needing protected starter battery isolation.
What Is Included
- 1 x Victron Argodiode 160-2AC battery isolator unit
Installation Notes
Installation should be carried out by a qualified electrician or experienced marine/vehicle electrical engineer. The unit must be mounted securely to a surface that allows adequate heat dissipation. Ensure all cabling is rated for the full 160A load and that appropriate fusing is fitted on the input and output lines. Account for the diode voltage drop when setting charge voltage on the source device. This product is not intended for grid-connected applications and does not require G98 or G99 compliance.
Return Policy
xWe offer a 14-day, no-quibble returns or replacement policy because we want you to be totally satisfied with your purchase.
If you are unhappy in any way with your purchase, you can return it for a refund or a replacement, as long as you return it in the same condition as it arrived (original/undamaged packaging and product) and within 30 days of receiving it. We will pay for your return postage on a faulty item as long as you send it using Royal Mail 2nd class recorded delivery (for EU or International Shipments, you have to use our UPS account, we will provide you with a return label)
Please keep in mind the following:
- Non-faulty items returned after 14 days and/or not in their original, undamaged packaging can only be exchanged for store credit - 15% off the items returned.
- Items returned within 14 days but not in their original and undamaged packaging will also incur a -15% charge per package.
- If you return an item that doesn't adhere to our returns procedure or doesn't include a returns form, you may be liable for a £10 administration fee
- Individual items from a bundle can't be returned, refunded or exchanged. If you want a refund/credit/exchange for a bundle, all items must be returned to us.
Before you return your item, please make sure that:
- You follow our returns process (outlined below)
- The goods and packaging are undamaged
IMPORTANT: We need to be able to identify an item with your order. We can only do this if you follow our returns process. Please do not send us items back that do not follow this process as they cannot be identified properly and will not be replaced or refunded.
What delivery method do I need to use when returning an item?
You must send the goods back to us via Royal Mail 2nd class recorded delivery. Refunds on faulty items returned are reimbursed within 5 working days.
Can I return just one item from multiple purchases?
Yes. Once you start the returns process you will go to a page that will allow you to choose which items you want to be replaced or refunded.
Returning faulty goods
If your item is faulty, you need to follow the returns policy, where you will be able to state that it’s faulty. The product will then arrive at our warehouse for testing.
If your purchase is not within 14 days
You can still exchange your item for a different product or for credit to use on the Voltacon Solar or Ledison-led-lights.co.uk websites (-15% from the credit amount).
Returns outside of the 14-day period do not qualify for the free returns policy.
Returning an item within the warranty
If you have a warranty and want to return a faulty item, you just need to follow our standard returns process. When we receive your item, we will then check that it’s within warranty and for any faults before arranging a replacement.