Victron Energy Centaur Battery Charger, 120-240V AC Input, 3 Isolated Outputs

Overview

The Victron Energy Centaur Charger is a multi-output battery charger range for 12V and 24V marine battery systems, with models covering 16A to 100A charge current. It accepts 90-265V AC at 45-65Hz and can also operate from a 90-400V DC supply, which makes it useful on boats that see different shore power conditions or mixed electrical environments.

Each Centaur Charger has three isolated output banks, and each output can supply the full rated current. That layout suits boats with separate house, engine start, and auxiliary battery banks, while keeping installation simpler than using separate chargers for each bank.

Charging is handled with a three-stage IUoU profile and internal temperature compensation. A DIP switch allows selection of charge and float voltage settings for flooded lead-acid, Gel, or AGM batteries, so the charger can be matched to the battery type already on board.

Key features

• Universal 90-265V AC input with 45-65Hz frequency support for varied marina and shore power conditions.
• Also accepts 90-400V DC input for AC-DC or DC-DC operation where the system layout calls for it.
• Three isolated output banks allow simultaneous charging of up to three battery banks.
• Each output can deliver the full rated current, rather than splitting a smaller total output across the banks.
• Three-stage IUoU charging with a bulk, absorption, and float sequence for lead-acid battery care.
• Internal temperature compensation adjusts charge voltage by battery cell temperature behavior.
• DIP switch settings support flooded lead-acid, Gel, and AGM batteries.
• Aluminium epoxy powder coated case, drip shield, stainless steel fixings, and acrylic-coated circuit boards help the unit handle heat, humidity, and salt air in a protected marine compartment.
• Includes an analog total output ammeter for quick charging checks at the unit.
• Built-in protection covers output short circuit and over-temperature conditions.

Variants

This Centaur Charger range varies by battery voltage and charge current. The available configurations cover 12V models at 20A, 30A, 40A, 50A, 60A, 80A, and 100A, plus 24V models at 16A, 30A, 40A, and 60A.

Across the range, the core charger layout remains the same: universal input, three isolated output banks, three-stage charging, internal temperature compensation, and selectable charge settings for flooded lead-acid, Gel, or AGM batteries. Higher-output versions are physically larger and should be matched to the vessel battery bank capacity, cable sizing, ventilation, and available mounting space.

Installation and setup

The Centaur Charger should be installed in a dry, protected location such as an electrical locker, machinery space, or other service area away from direct spray. Its IP20 enclosure is not made for exposed deck mounting or washdown areas, so placement and airflow matter as much as electrical fit.

Battery connections use stud terminals, while the AC side uses screw-clamp connection. Larger charge current models need appropriate cable sizing, overcurrent protection, and ventilation, especially when installed near other heat-producing equipment.

Compatibility and fit

This range is meant for lead-acid battery systems, including flooded, Gel, and AGM types. It is a practical match for cruising boats, workboats, and fishing vessels with multiple battery banks that need charging from shore power or another suitable onboard supply.

Before installation, match the charger variant to the vessel battery voltage, battery chemistry, battery bank capacity, and the expected charging demand. The charger is ignition protected, but it still needs to be installed according to the boat electrical plan and applicable marine wiring practices.

Use on board

For a typical boat with a house bank, start bank, and auxiliary bank, the three isolated outputs let one charger serve all three banks without treating them as a single shared battery. The analog ammeter also gives a simple at-a-glance check when arriving at the dock or after switching to shore power.

The Centaur Charger is a good fit for owners who want a straightforward charger with physical controls, clear output visibility, and enough model choices to match anything from a modest 12V system to a larger 24V installation.