Schumacher Battery Charger SL1315 Manual

The Schumacher SL1315 is a fully automatic, microprocessor-controlled battery charger and maintainer designed for 12V lead-acid batteries, including standard, AGM, gel-cell, and deep-cycle types. It features a 1.5A output, automatic voltage detection, multi-stage charging (bulk, absorption, float), reverse polarity protection, spark-proof technology, and a compact design for easy storage and use. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. Product Overview 4. Specifications 5. Operation Guide 6. Charging Process 7. Maintenance Mode 8. Care & Storage 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Microprocessor control unit, LED status indicators, Battery clamps (red/black), AC power cord, Protection circuitry.

Feature	Description
Fully Automatic	Microprocessor selects optimal charge rate automatically
Multi-Stage Charging	Bulk, Absorption, Float modes for battery health
Battery Compatibility	12V Standard, AGM, Gel-Cell, Deep-Cycle
Reverse Polarity Protection	Prevents damage if clamps are connected incorrectly
Spark-Proof Technology	Safe connection to battery terminals
Compact & Portable	Lightweight design with integrated cable storage
LED Status Indicators	Shows Charging, Maintenance, Fault conditions
Automatic Voltage Detection	Detects battery voltage before starting charge
Float/Maintenance Mode	Maintains battery at full charge without overcharging
Overcharge Protection	Automatically switches to float mode when full

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Use in well-ventilated area.

Wear eye protection and avoid flames/sparks near battery.
Ensure charger is unplugged from AC outlet before connecting to battery.
Connect red clamp to positive (+) terminal first, then black to negative (-) or ground.
Do not charge frozen or damaged batteries.
Keep charger dry and away from liquids.

WARNING! Risk of explosive gases. Battery acid can cause severe burns. Never lean over battery during charging.

Product Overview

Front Panel: LED Indicators (POWER, CHARGING, MAINTENANCE, FAULT). Output Cables: 6-foot leads with insulated clamps. AC Input: Standard 120V, 60Hz plug.

LED Indicators: POWER (green) = AC connected; CHARGING (red) = active charge; MAINTENANCE (green) = float/maintain mode; FAULT (red) = error detected (reverse polarity, bad battery).

CAUTION! Do not disassemble charger. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

Specifications

Model: SL1315
Input: 120V AC, 60Hz, 0.5A
Output: 12V DC, 1.5A
Battery Types: 12V Lead-Acid (Standard, AGM, Gel, Deep-Cycle)
Charging Stages: 3-Stage (Bulk, Absorption, Float)
Protections: Reverse Polarity, Short Circuit, Overheat, Overcharge
Dimensions: 6.5" L x 3.5" W x 2" H
Weight: 1.2 lbs
Operating Temp: 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)
Compliance: cULus Listed, RoHS

Operation Guide

Access charging modes automatically based on battery condition.

Step-by-Step:

Set charger on stable, dry surface near battery.
Plug AC cord into wall outlet (POWER LED lights green).
Connect clamps: RED to battery positive (+), BLACK to negative (-) or vehicle chassis ground.
Charger automatically detects voltage and begins charging (CHARGING LED red).
When battery is fully charged, charger switches to MAINTENANCE mode (green LED).
To disconnect: Unplug AC cord, then remove BLACK clamp, then RED clamp.

Tip: For maintenance charging, leave connected indefinitely; charger will cycle as needed.

Charging Process

Microprocessor controls three stages:

Bulk Stage: Delivers maximum current (1.5A) until battery reaches ~80% capacity.
Absorption Stage: Voltage constant, current tapers as battery nears 100%.
Float Stage: Maintains battery at full charge with reduced voltage; prevents sulfation.

Automatic Detection: If battery voltage is below 2V, charger may not start (FAULT LED). For deeply discharged batteries, allow charger to attempt recovery for up to 2 hours.

WARNING! Do not attempt to charge non-rechargeable batteries. Ensure battery voltage matches charger (12V only).

Maintenance Mode

After full charge, charger enters float/maintenance mode automatically. MAINTENANCE LED (green) will illuminate. In this mode, charger monitors battery and provides small pulses to keep battery at optimal charge during storage. Suitable for seasonal vehicles, boats, motorcycles, etc. Can be left connected for months.

Care & Storage

Unplug and disconnect from battery before cleaning. Wipe with dry cloth; do not use liquids or solvents. Store in cool, dry place. Coil cables neatly to prevent damage.

CAUTION! Do not expose to rain or moisture. Inspect cables and clamps regularly for wear or damage.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with limits for residential use. Copyright © Schumacher Electric Corporation. All trademarks are property of their respective owners. For support, visit www.schumacherelectric.com or contact 1-800-621-5485.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
POWER LED off	No AC power	Check wall outlet; ensure plug is fully inserted.
FAULT LED on	Reverse polarity/bad battery	Disconnect, verify clamp connections (red to +, black to -). Test battery voltage (if below 2V, may be unusable).
CHARGING LED not on	Battery already charged/ poor connection	Check battery voltage (≥12.6V = charged). Clean battery terminals and clamp jaws.
Charger gets warm	Normal during bulk charge	Ensure ventilation; if excessively hot, unplug and allow to cool.
No output current	Internal fault	Unplug, wait 30 seconds, reconnect. If persists, contact service.

Reset: Unplug from AC and battery for 2 minutes to reset microprocessor.

Service: 1-800-621-5485; www.schumacherelectric.com