Sterling Pro Charge Ultra Lite Battery Charger 12V 30A (Global AC Input, 8 Charge Profiles)

The Sterling Pro Charge Ultra Lite 12V/30A charger offers a state-of-the-art charging solution, combining a compact form factor with outstanding performance. Engineered with a wide AC input range (80-270VAC), this charger is ready to plug into almost any power source: from standard 230V European shore mains and 120V North American grids, to the sometimes erratic output of onboard generators. It automatically adapts to the input voltage and frequency, delivering full charging power no matter where you are. This is a huge advantage for long-distance cruisers and RV travelers who may encounter various electrical standards on their journey.

Intelligent Charging: The Pro Charge Ultra Lite uses a multi-stage charging algorithm (Bulk, Absorption, Float, and Maintenance) tailored to the selected battery profile. With its 8 preset modes covering everything from traditional flooded lead-acid to advanced lithium iron phosphate, the charger ensures each battery gets the correct voltage and current for an optimal charge. This eliminates the risk of undercharging (which can leave capacity unused) or overcharging (which can damage batteries). For example, lithium batteries require a very specific charging approach – the Ultra Lite provides that, following the latest LiFePO4 charging parameters recommended by battery manufacturers.

Thanks to its high efficiency (>90%), the charger minimizes waste heat and stays relatively cool, which is a sign of less stress on both the charger and your boat’s electrical system. Efficient conversion means more of the input energy goes into your batteries and less is lost as heat. In practical terms, this can lead to faster charging – especially under limited power conditions (say you’re using a small portable generator or have a long extension cord with some voltage drop). The charger makes the most of whatever power is available.

With dual DC outputs, the Ultra Lite can charge two battery banks simultaneously. The charger intelligently shares its 30A capacity – if one bank is nearly full, more current is automatically directed to the other bank. This is particularly useful for boats with twin batteries (start and house) because it ensures both get properly charged without needing external splitters or diodes. A temperature compensation sensor is included (or available) to monitor battery temp and adjust charging voltage in hot or cold conditions – avoiding over-voltage in heat and boosting charge in the cold, which results in a more complete and safe charge.

The “night mode” feature is invaluable when you’re running on batteries overnight and want silence. By activating this mode (via a built-in timer or optional remote panel), the charger reduces its output to 50%, which slows charging but significantly reduces fan noise. This means you can sleep soundly without the background hum of a fan, especially if the charger is installed near living quarters. Come morning, you can exit night mode to resume full-power charging when noise is less of an issue.

Recommended Use & Variants: The Sterling Pro Charge Ultra Lite 30A is well-suited for mid-sized boats and yachts with a total battery capacity around 100–300 Ah. For instance, if you have one starting battery ~100 Ah and one house bank ~200 Ah, this charger will efficiently service both. It’s ideal for vessels in the ~17–30 ft range that have multiple onboard electronics, a fridge, lighting, and other draws – it will quickly replenish your batteries from shore power or a generator after a day at anchor.

In the context of RVs and camper vans, this 30A model is excellent for setups with solar panels and 2–3 auxiliary batteries. When you plug into campsite mains at night, the charger will swiftly top up your batteries for the next day’s travel. Its “Lite” design (lighter and simpler than the full Pro Charge Ultra series) makes it more compact and easier to install in tight spaces, which is often a concern in both boats and camper interiors.

If your needs are smaller or your vessel is very compact, the Ultra Lite series includes lower amperage models (e.g., 20A); conversely, for larger power requirements you can either run two of these units in parallel (thanks to their dynamic charging distribution capability) or step up to the standard Pro Charge Ultra line which offers 40A, 50A, 60A versions. For most mid-range applications, however, the 30A Ultra Lite hits the sweet spot in terms of power, size, and features.

• Boats 15–20 ft (single battery): You might opt for the smaller Ultra Lite 20A, but the 30A will work as well, charging a single ~100 Ah battery in just a few hours. The upside of the 30A is room for expansion – if you add a second battery later, you’re already equipped.
• Powerboats twenty-something feet (dual batteries): The 30A Ultra Lite is designed for these configurations – it will charge both your cranking battery and your house battery at once. After a short time on shore power or running a genset, both banks will be topped off and ready.
• Camper Vans & RVs: Thanks to its wide AC input tolerance, the unit handles different campground voltages with ease. It keeps your house batteries charged even as you travel between 110V and 230V regions. The night mode is a bonus in quiet campgrounds – you won’t disturb your neighbors or light sleepers in your RV with fan noise at night.