Description
xVictron Argodiode 180-3AC Battery Isolator 3 Batteries 180A
The Victron Argodiode 180-3AC is a diode-based battery isolator designed to charge up to three separate battery banks simultaneously from a single alternator or charger source, without allowing any bank to discharge into another. It is suited to marine, vehicle and off-grid applications where independent battery banks must be maintained in isolation.
Key Features
- Supports up to three independent battery banks from a single charging source.
- Maximum continuous current rating of 180A, suitable for high-output alternators and multi-bank systems.
- Diode isolation prevents reverse current flow between battery banks, protecting each bank from discharge by another.
- 3AC designation indicates three outputs with alternating current-compatible input, suitable for use with AC chargers as well as DC alternators.
- Compact, robust aluminium construction with integrated heat sink for passive thermal management.
- Weight of 1.4 kg reflects a solid, heat-dissipating build appropriate for high-current continuous use.
Product Overview
Diode isolators work by allowing current to flow in one direction only. When a charging source is active, current passes through the diodes to each connected battery bank. When the source is inactive, the diodes block any current path between banks, so a depleted bank cannot draw down a healthy one. This makes the Argodiode 180-3AC a straightforward and reliable solution for split-charging installations where simplicity and passive operation are priorities.
One practical consideration with diode isolators is the 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 output. In systems where this matters, the alternator or charger output voltage should be set accordingly to compensate. Victron's Argodiode range is designed to minimise this drop, but installers should account for it during commissioning.
The 180A continuous rating makes this unit appropriate for demanding installations with large battery banks or high-output alternators. The integrated aluminium heat sink dissipates heat generated by the diodes during sustained high-current charging, removing the need for external cooling in most installations.
Specifications
- SKU: ARG180301020
- Maximum current: 180A
- Number of battery outputs: 3
- Weight: 1.4 kg
- GTIN: 8719076019121
Applications
- Marine vessels with separate starter, domestic and bow thruster battery banks.
- Motorhomes and coaches with engine start, habitation and auxiliary battery banks.
- Off-grid vehicles and expedition builds requiring isolated battery management.
- Commercial vehicles with multiple electrical systems requiring independent battery protection.
- Split-charge systems fed by a high-output alternator or shore power charger.
What Is Included
- 1 x Victron Argodiode 180-3AC battery isolator unit
Installation Notes
Installation should be carried out by a qualified electrician or competent marine/vehicle electrical engineer. The unit must be mounted in a well-ventilated location to allow the heat sink to function correctly. Ensure all cabling is rated for the full 180A continuous load and that appropriate fusing is fitted on each battery connection. Account for the diode voltage drop when setting the output voltage of the charging source. This product is not intended for grid-connected solar PV systems 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.