Victron Energy CMP125010000 12/500/20-16 MultiPlus Inverter Chargers

Victron Energy MultiPlus 12/500/20-16 Inverter Charger

Compact inverter and charger in one reliable 12V UPS power with 20A charging for smaller installations

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Product Overview

The Victron Energy MultiPlus 12/500/20-16 (CMP125010000) is a compact combined inverter and battery charger for 12V systems, delivering 430W continuous inverter output at 25°C (400W at 40°C) and a 20A three-stage battery charger in a single unit. Designed for smaller caravan, marine, off-grid, and backup power installations where space and budget matter but reliability cannot be compromised, it brings Victron's proven full bridge plus toroidal transformer topology to the entry level of the MultiPlus range.

Like all MultiPlus models, it functions as a true uninterruptible power supply switching to battery-backed inverter output in Search mode when AC input is absent, keeping connected loads running without interruption. The 500VA output and 20A charger suit installations with modest AC load requirements and smaller battery banks: a single fridge and lighting circuit, essential communications and navigation equipment on a small vessel, or a compact off-grid cabin with limited daily AC consumption. The programmable relay, three-pole remote on/off, and battery temperature sensor add system integration depth that goes beyond what a basic inverter or standalone charger can provide.

Note: PowerControl and PowerAssist features are available on 800–1200VA MultiPlus models only not on this 500VA model. This product must be installed by a licensed electrician. It involves mains AC voltages and connection to shore power, generator, or grid supply.

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Key Specifications

• Battery input voltage range: 9.5–17V DC (12V nominal)
• Inverter output: 230VAC ±2%, 50Hz ±0.1%
• Continuous inverter output at 25°C: 430W (500VA)
• Continuous inverter output at 40°C: 400W
• Continuous inverter output at 65°C: 300W
• Peak inverter power: 900W
• Maximum inverter efficiency: 90%
• Zero-load power (standard / Search mode): 6W / 2W
• Charger AC input voltage range: 187–265VAC
• Charger AC input frequency: 45–65Hz
• Absorption charge voltage: 14.4V DC
• Float charge voltage: 13.8V DC
• Storage mode voltage: 13.2V DC
• House battery charge current: 20A
• Starter battery charge current: 1A
• Battery temperature sensor: Included
• Programmable relay: Yes (default: alarm relay)
• Remote on/off/charger on: Yes (three-pole connector)
• Transfer time (grid to inverter): not specified refer to Victron datasheet

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Features & Benefits

• Combined inverter and charger one compact unit: The MultiPlus 12/500/20-16 replaces a standalone inverter and a standalone charger with a single, space-efficient unit. For small caravans, compact vessels, and modest off-grid cabins where panel space and installation complexity are real constraints, the integrated design simplifies the electrical system without sacrificing reliability.
• Full bridge plus toroidal transformer proven pure sine wave topology: Victron's professional-grade inverter core the same design used across the full MultiPlus and Phoenix range delivers grid-quality pure sine wave output. Sensitive electronics, modern switching power supplies, and medical devices all operate cleanly.
• 20A three-stage battery charger: Absorption (14.4V), float (13.8V), and storage (13.2V) charge stages protect 12V battery health and extend cycle life across AGM, gel, and lead-acid chemistries. The battery temperature sensor adjusts charge voltage automatically preventing overcharge in Australian summer heat without manual intervention. A separate 1A output maintains a starter battery simultaneously.
• Search mode 2W standby: In Search mode, zero-load inverter draw drops to 2W keeping overnight battery drain negligible when no AC loads are connected. The inverter samples for load every two seconds and stays on only when load is detected above the set threshold.
• Programmable relay: Configurable for alarm or pre-alarm outputs inverter temperature, input ripple, and low battery voltage conditions can all trigger the relay. Suitable for integration with external alarm circuits, LED indicators, or load-shedding relays.
• Three-pole remote on/off/charger on: Independent remote control of the inverter on/off and charger on functions via a three-pole connector allows clean system integration into caravan control panels, vessel switchboards, and battery management systems without routing heavy cable to the switching point.
• High start-up power: The 900W peak rating handles inrush current from LED lamp converters, halogen lamps, and small power tools on startup loads that draw significantly more at switch-on than during steady-state operation.
• Battery temperature sensor included: Automatically compensates charge voltage for ambient temperature protecting battery health in hot Australian conditions and extending cycle life without manual adjustment.
• Note on PowerControl and PowerAssist: These features, which allow the MultiPlus to manage generator or shore current limits and boost peak output from the battery, are available on 800–1200VA MultiPlus models only. They are not available on this 500VA model. If PowerControl or PowerAssist functionality is required, refer to the MultiPlus C 12/1200/50-16 or higher-rated models.

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Technical Specs

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Compatible With

• 12V AGM, gel, and LiFePO4 battery banks (charge parameters may require adjustment for lithium confirm with Victron documentation)
• Small caravans and camper trailers with modest AC load requirements
• Small marine vessels requiring compact inverter charger and UPS capability
• Compact off-grid cabins and remote installations with limited daily AC consumption
• Victron BMV battery monitors (system integration and state of charge monitoring)
• Victron Color Control GX and Cerbo GX (for system-level monitoring check compatibility)
• Victron VRM portal (remote monitoring check GX device requirements)
• Shore power connections and small generator inputs

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the MultiPlus 12/500/20-16 include PowerControl and PowerAssist?

No. PowerControl and PowerAssist are available on MultiPlus models rated at 800–1200VA and above only. This 500VA model does not include these features. If generator or shore current management and peak power boosting from the battery are required, refer to the Victron MultiPlus C 12/1200/50-16 or higher-rated models in the range.

What is the difference between this MultiPlus and the Phoenix inverter range?

The MultiPlus 12/500/20-16 combines an inverter and a battery charger with shore power input in a single unit it can charge the battery from shore or generator power and switch to inverter output when AC input is lost. The Phoenix range is a standalone inverter only, with no charger or AC input capability.

What battery chemistries is the MultiPlus 12/500/20-16 compatible with?

The factory charge settings suit 12V lead-acid batteries (AGM and gel). LiFePO4 compatibility is possible but requires charge parameter adjustment and typically a compatible Victron BMS confirm against current Victron documentation before integrating with a lithium battery bank.

What does the programmable relay do?

By default, the programmable relay acts as an alarm relay it de-energises when the inverter is approaching its temperature limit, when input ripple is too high, or when battery voltage is low. It can be connected to an external alarm, indicator light, or load-shedding circuit for system monitoring and protection.

Does this product require a licensed electrician for installation?

Yes. The MultiPlus 12/500/20-16 connects to mains AC voltages shore power or generator supply and must be installed by a licensed electrician in accordance with Australian electrical standards. Do not attempt self-installation.