Table of Contents
Introduction to the EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger
The EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger is an accessory product for portable power stations, which is designed to provide an alternative, efficient method of charging your power stations while on the move. Note that it is not the only way to charge these power stations – instead, it provides a faster alternative to traditional vehicle auxiliary power outlets or other standard charging methods.
How does it work?
It works by connecting to your vehicle’s alternator, using the excess energy generated to charge your EcoFlow power stations up to 8 times faster than standard methods. This means you can top up a 1kWh power station in just 1.3 hours.
What else can it do?
In addition to fast charging, the alternator charger also functions as a battery maintainer and jump starter, providing added utility for vehicle owners. It’s compatible with a variety of vehicles, including SUVs, pickups, and RVs, and can help expand the energy storage capacity of RV house batteries.
The charger is equipped with multiple safety protections and offers an easy installation process.
What it's used for
The EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger is designed to provide a fast, efficient, and versatile charging solution for EcoFlow portable power stations while on the move. Here are the primary uses and benefits of this device:
1) Charging while driving
The core function of the EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger is to charge EcoFlow power stations using the vehicle’s alternator.
Traditional in-vehicle charging methods, such as cigarette lighter outlets, are limited to around 100W of power, resulting in slow charging times. In contrast, the EcoFlow Alternator Charger can deliver up to 800W, making it up to 8 times faster. This means you can top up a 1kWh power station in just 1.3 hours while driving, ensuring your devices and appliances are always powered without the need for long stops.
2) Battery maintenance and jump starting
In addition to charging power stations, the EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger also serves as a battery maintainer and jump starter. It helps extend the life of your vehicle’s starter battery or RV house battery by providing a lower electrical current for maintenance.
Additionally, in the event of a dead battery, the alternator charger can quickly jump-start your vehicle, ensuring you are never stranded due to a depleted battery.
3) Extended use in RVs
For RV owners, the EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger is particularly valuable. It can expand the energy storage capacity of your RV’s house batteries by up to 7.2kWh when paired with EcoFlow DELTA Pro and its extra battery. This extended capacity allows for longer off-grid stays and ensures you have enough power for all your essential devices and appliances.
4) Supplementary charging method
While EcoFlow power stations can be charged through various means, including AC outlets and solar panels, the alternator charger offers a supplementary method that is particularly useful when other options are less practical or available. It provides a reliable backup and an additional way of ensuring that your power stations are always charged and ready for use.
Key features
High-speed charging: The EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger charges up to 8 times faster than traditional vehicle auxiliary power outlets. It can top up 1kWh in just 1.3 hours, meaning you can quickly recharge your EcoFlow portable power stations while you drive.
3-in-1 functionality: The Alternator Charger serves as a fast charger, a battery maintainer, and a jump starter. It efficiently manages your vehicle’s battery health, ensuring it’s always in optimal condition and ready to go.
Wide compatibility: Suitable for various vehicles, including SUVs, pickups, and RVs, the EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger can expand the capacity of existing RV house batteries, adding up to 7.2kWh of energy storage when paired with the EcoFlow DELTA Pro and its extra battery.
Safety features: Built with high thermal resistance Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, the charger offers safe and reliable operation. It also includes multiple safety protections including reverse polarity protection, overcurrent protection, short circuit protection, and both overvoltage and undervoltage protection.
Easy installation: Designed for hassle-free setup, the EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger can be installed without drilling or damaging your vehicle. It comes with a comprehensive installation guide, making it accessible for both professional and DIY users.
Compact and durable design: With dimensions of 9.5 x 7.6 x 1.4 inches and a weight of just 5.1 lbs (2.3 kg), the charger is compact and easy to store. It is also durable, with an operating temperature range of –4°F to 140°F.
Compatible products
The EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger is designed to work with a number of EcoFlow portable power stations, and it is also compatible with the EcoFlow WAVE 2 portable air conditioner. You can purchase the 800W Alternator Charger in a bundle with each compatible product directly on the product page, often at a discount.
EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger
Price (USD): $599
Price (GBP): £329
Output (W): N/A
Capacity (Wh): N/A
Includes:
1x EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger
EcoFlow DELTA Max (2000)
Price (USD): $1,599 (was $2,099)*
Price (GBP): £1,128 (was £1,378)
Output (W): 2,400
Capacity (Wh): 2,000
*Note: US site only sells DELTA Max and 800W Alternator Charger as separate products.
Includes:
1x EcoFlow DELTA Max (2000)
1x EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger (UK only)
Alternator Charger + DELTA Pro
Price (USD): $ 2,999 (was $4,248)
Price (GBP): £2,717 (was £2,917)
Output (W): 3,600
Capacity (Wh): 3,600
Includes:
1x EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger
1x EcoFlow DELTA Pro Portable Power Station
Alternator Charger + DELTA 2
Price (USD): $999 (was $1,548)
Price (GBP): £1,128 (was £1,228)
Output (W): 1,800
Capacity (Wh): 1,024
Includes:
1x EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger
1x EcoFlow DELTA 2 Portable Power Station
Alternator Charger + DELTA 2 Max
Price (USD): $1,699 (was $2,448)
Price (GBP): £2,228
Output (W): 2,400
Capacity (Wh): 2,048
Includes:
1x EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger
1x EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max Portable Power Station
Alternator Charger + WAVE 2
Price (USD): $1,399 (was $2,747)
Price (GBP): £1,478 (was £2,128)
Output (W): N/A
Capacity (Wh): N/A
Includes:
1x EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger
1x EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner
Here’s a closer look at each compatible product:
- EcoFlow DELTA Max 2000 – With a 2,016Wh battery capacity, the DELTA Max 2000 can be charged in about 2.6 hours with the 800W Alternator Charger via the XT150 Port. (In US, DELTA Max 2000 and 800W Alternator Charger must be purchased separately)
- EcoFlow DELTA Pro – With a 3,600Wh capacity, the DELTA Pro can be fully charged in 4.8 hours via the the XT150 Port.
- EcoFlow DELTA 2 – With a 1,024Wh capacity, the DELTA 2 can be fully charged in 1.3 hours via the XT150 Port.
- EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max – With a 2,048Wh capacity, the DELTA 2 Max can be charged in about 2.6 hours via the XT150 Port. (View bundle on EcoFlow website)
- EcoFlow WAVE 2 (Portable Air Conditioner) – The EcoFlow WAVE 2 is a portable air conditioner designed to keep you cool during your travels. It can be paired with the EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger for faster and more efficient charging. (View bundle on EcoFlow website)
Specifications
Here are the detailed specifications of the EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger:
EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger specifications
| Attribute | Details |
| Model | EF-FC-301-1 |
| Net Weight | 5.1 lb (2.3 kg) |
| Dimensions (W × D × H) | 9.5 x 7.6 x 1.4 inches (242 x 194 x 35 mm) |
| Wi-Fi | Frequency: 2412 - 2472 MHz |
| Maximum Output Power: <20 dBm | |
| Bluetooth | Frequency: 2402 - 2480 MHz |
| Maximum Output Power: <10 dBm | |
| Charging Mode | Input: 11V - 35V, 76A Max |
| Output: 40V - 60V, 800W Max | |
| Battery Maintenance Mode | Input: 40V - 60V, 3A Max |
| Output: 13.8V / 27.6V, 100W Max | |
| Reverse Charging Mode | Input: 40V - 60V, 21A Max |
| Output: 13.8V / 27.6V, 800W Max | |
| Protection Features | Reverse Polarity Protection |
| Overcurrent Protection | |
| Short Circuit Protection | |
| Overvoltage Protection | |
| Undervoltage Protection | |
| Operating Temperature | –20°C to 60°C (–4°F to 140°F) |
| Storage Temperature | –30°C to 70°C (–22°F to 158°F) |
| Operating Humidity | ≤95% |
| Storage Humidity | ≤95% |
| Fuse | Rated Current: 125A |
What's in the box
When you purchase the EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger, the following items are included in the package:
- EcoFlow Alternator Charger: The main charging unit.
- Installation board
- Cable puller
- M6 nut
- M5 screw
- M6 screw
- ST5.5 screw
- Input cable (5m): 5-meter cable for connecting the Alternator Charger to your vehicle’s power source.
- XT150 output cable (1m): 1-meter cable for connecting the alternator charger to the EcoFlow power station.
- Fuse cable: Cable equipped with a fuse for safety and protection during operation.
- Manual and warranty card: Comprehensive instructions for installation and operation, along with warranty information.
Note that when purchasing the 800W Alternator Charger in a bundle with an EcoFlow portable power station, the Alternator Charger and power station are shipped separately.
How to set it up
See this helpful video below for full setup and installation instructions.
User reviews and feedback
There aren’t many reviews on the official EcoFlow product page, so we’ve had to cast our nets wider to get a better sense of overall customer opinion. Here is a summary of the most helpful feedback, thoughts, and tips from users:
- Cable length concerns: Multiple users reported that the cable length is too short for practical use in larger vehicles like truck campers.
- Compatibility issues: Users expressed frustration over compatibility problems with older EcoFlow models that lack the necessary ports to connect with the charger.
- Error handling: It’s recommended to update the firmware of the EcoFlow device if error code 32768 appears. Customer support can assist through the app if updates do not resolve the issue.
- Installation guidance: For installations involving multiple batteries, such as in converted ambulances, users seek advice on optimal attachment points.
- Alternator capacity: The capacity of the vehicle’s alternator is critical; users with high-capacity alternators (like the 250-amp in Ford Transit’s Ambulance Package) report better compatibility with high power demands.
- Alternative solutions: Some users suggest cheaper alternatives like pure sine wave inverters or other DC-DC chargers like Victron Orion for simpler needs.
- Wi-Fi connectivity for setup: One user noted difficulty pairing the charger with the EcoFlow app while outside the Wi-Fi range, suggesting that initial setup is done within a good connectivity area.
- Installation advice: If you’re having installation challenges, suggestions include notching the battery compartment to fit cables, and adjusting settings via the app to limit power draw during long drives.
- Firmware updates before use: Updating the firmware on your EcoFlow power bank before using the alternator charger is advised to avoid errors and ensure smooth operation.
- Budget considerations: Many prospective buyers note that the cost of the Alternator Charger is very high compared to what they’d expect, and that it only seems reasonable when purchasing as part of a bundle with a portable power station.
FAQs
Will using this product damage my vehicle's alternator or battery?
No, the EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger is designed to adapt to the power surplus of your vehicle’s alternator, which prevents overloading. It only uses up to 800 watts when available, ensuring it won’t harm the vehicle’s alternator or battery.
How can I determine if the alternator charger is compatible with my vehicle?
The alternator charger works with vehicles that have starter batteries operating on 12V or 24V systems, which includes most gasoline vehicles. Check your vehicle’s battery voltage to confirm compatibility.
What types of vehicles are best suited for this alternator charger?
Gasoline vehicles are most compatible, but hybrid and range-extended vehicles can also work with the alternator charger. The charging power depends on the surplus power of the vehicle’s alternator, which may vary among different models.
How does this charger compare to using a cigarette lighter outlet?
The EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger offers a significant improvement in charging speed, delivering up to 800W compared to the approximately 100W provided by a standard vehicle cigarette lighter outlet. This results in much faster charging times.
Does this charger increase fuel consumption?
The charger uses surplus electricity generated by your car’s alternator while the engine is running. This electricity would otherwise go unused, so the impact on fuel consumption is minimal and unlikely to significantly affect your vehicle’s gas mileage.
Is drilling necessary for installation? Will it harm my vehicle?
No drilling is needed for installation. The wiring can be routed through existing openings such as the firewall near the driver’s seat, preventing any damage to your vehicle. Installation can be achieved using non-invasive methods.
Can I install this product myself?
Yes, if you have some technical skills and experience with vehicle maintenance, you can install the alternator charger yourself. However, it is recommended to seek professional help to ensure proper and safe installation. Make sure to avoid high temperatures, sharp edges, and areas prone to friction when routing the cables.
Why does the alternator charger get hot, and is this normal?
Yes, it is normal for the alternator charger to become hot during operation due to the high power it handles. Avoid covering the charger and let it cool down before handling to prevent burns.
How quickly can it charge EcoFlow DELTA series products?
- DELTA 2 (1kWh): ~1.3 hours
- DELTA 2 Max (2kWh): ~2.6 hours
- DELTA Pro (3.6kWh): ~4.8 hours
- DELTA Max 2000: ~2.6 hours
- DELTA Max 1600: ~2.1 hours
What should I do if my EcoFlow WAVE 2 add-on battery doesn't work with the alternator charger?
Ensure the add-on battery is connected to the EcoFlow WAVE 2 unit and update the firmware to the latest version through the EcoFlow app.
What safety features are included with the alternator charger?
The charger includes multiple safety features such as reverse polarity protection, overcurrent protection, short circuit protection, and both overvoltage and undervoltage protection to ensure safe operation.
Will installing this charger affect my vehicle’s warranty?
Before installing the charger, it’s best to consult your vehicle manufacturer or review your warranty terms to ensure that adding this device will not void your warranty.
How does the alternator charger know when to start and stop charging?
The charger uses voltage recognition to operate. It starts charging when the input voltage exceeds 13V, ensuring it only charges when the vehicle’s alternator is producing sufficient power.
What do the indicator lights on the Alternator Charger mean?
The EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger is equipped with several indicator lights that provide visual cues about its operating status. Each color represents a different mode or status:
Green light: Charging Mode – shows that the charger is actively charging your portable power station using the vehicle’s alternator.
Blue light: Battery Maintenance Mode – this mode is used to maintain the health of your vehicle’s starter battery or RV house battery by applying a lower electrical current.
White light: Reverse Charging Mode – the portable power station is charging the vehicle starter battery or RV house battery in reverse.
Yellow light: Unbinding Success – shows that a previous binding to a power station has been successfully cleared.
Red light: Device Failure – this could be due to a variety of issues such as overheating, a short circuit, or other electrical malfunctions. It’s recommended to check the device and consult the manual or customer support for troubleshooting.
Conclusion
The EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger is a nice idea for those who need quick and efficient charging of portable power stations while traveling. For the right setup, its high-speed charging capability makes it a winner by drastically reducing charging times. The smart features such as app-based control and firmware updates also makes for a (relatively) seamless experience.
However, the product is not without its drawbacks. Many users have noted that the included cable length is too short for use in larger vehicles or specific configurations such as truck campers, often necessitating additional investments in custom cables. Compatibility issues are another concern, as some older EcoFlow models lack the necessary ports to connect with this charger, which can be exceptionally frustrating. Additionally, some users report error codes that stem from the need for simple firmware updates, which is a real annoyance.
And, finally – and perhaps most significantly – it’s a pretty expensive piece of equipment. If you’re hands-on and technically savvy enough to make your own, doing so may be a better option for you. Consider purchasing a pure sine wave inverter, or other brands of DC-DC inverters (such as Redarc or Victron – e.g. the Victron Orion Non-isolated 12/24 20A) and using a cable to charge through the PV ports.
Final thoughts
So, do we recommend purchasing the EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger? Well, it depends.
If you are on the road a lot, you’re seeking a faster and more versatile charging method for your EcoFlow power stations, and you either aren’t keen or don’t have the time to fiddle around with third-party inverters and DIY cables, this could certainly be a helpful addition to your energy system. However, it’s still a little hard to justify its high cost considering there are still a number of issues yet to be addressed by EcoFlow (e.g. longer cables, better connectivity, and reduced reliance on firmware updates) – therefore if you’re still on the fence, we would probably only recommend purchasing if and when it goes on sale, or alternatively, as part of a discounted power station bundle.
For further reading, you might find the following articles interesting:
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