Types of car battery chargers: how to choose the right one

In the world of modern cars, where batteries play a very important role, the choice of charging for them requires a careful approach from every car owner. The variety of types and models of chargers can make it difficult to decide which one is best for your battery.

In this article, we will look at the different types of car chargers and give useful tips to help you make the best choice and keep the battery working for as long as possible.

Car charger designs

Now in stores you can buy a variety of chargers for car batteries. Some of them work only as a car battery charger, while others can also be used to start the engine, especially during the cold season. There are also devices that can also be used as an additional power supply for recharging gadgets.

According to the purpose and features of work, the following types of chargers for cars can be distinguished:

Charger and recovery device

During the discharge of a starter car battery, lead sulfate deposits form on the lead plates. However, during the charging process, the reaction goes in the opposite direction, which contributes to the decomposition of sulfate. With proper use, only a small amount of sulfate remains on the plates, and most of it simply dissolves during charging.

However, if the battery is misused, coarse lead sulfate may form on the plates and not dissolve during charging. This leads to a significant deterioration in the technical characteristics of the car battery due to a decrease in the active surface of the battery plates. Severe sulfation is one of the most common causes of premature battery failure.

Fortunately, modern car battery chargers often have special technical solutions and algorithms that can partially eliminate plate sulfation. By alternating discharge and charge pulses, these devices are able to partially restore battery performance that has deteriorated due to sulfation of the plates.

Starter charger

The name itself speaks of its purpose. If you regularly charge the battery and keep it in good condition, this is only a plus. But what if a sudden severe frost left your car without movement, and there is no time to remove and charge the battery?

In such a situation, the starter charger becomes the ideal solution to quickly start the engine. According to the principle of operation, it resembles the usual "lighting", when an external power source is used to start the engine. However, unlike this method, this device provides safety for the vehicle's on-board electronics, eliminating the possibility of damage or malfunction of electronic systems.

Different types of ROM are provided for different situations. In some cases, it is necessary to avoid disconnecting the battery from the power source, so pre-start devices are used. However, when using such devices, the engine does not start immediately after they are connected. If you want to charge the battery and start the engine at the same time, it is recommended to use starter chargers.

They can also be divided into several types:

Professional: Designed to operate on 12V and 24V mains voltage. They are capable of starting both passenger cars and commercial vehicles, providing high performance and reliability.
Household: Used in garages and run on battery voltages between 3 and 12V. They are capable of starting motorcycles and cars, and usually offer more compact and affordable options for everyday use.
Combined: not intended for regular use, but used for special occasions. They can have different characteristics and functions, providing the ability to both start and charge the battery.

What to look for when choosing a charger for car batteries?

Which type of charger you choose depends on your specific needs and the type of vehicle that needs to charge the battery or start the engine.

1. Assume reading to domestic manufacturers: To avoid Chinese fakes, it is recommended to choose devices from domestic manufacturers. Ukrainian companies, in particular, offer high-quality devices that compete with foreign counterparts.

2. Consider the purpose: When choosing a device, consider its purpose, battery specifications and equipment. Starters and chargers can be stationary or autonomous. Stationary ones are suitable for use in a garage with access to electricity, while autonomous ones with a built-in battery can be used outdoors without being connected to the mains.

3. Automatic mode: A pulse charger with automatic charging mode, allowing the use of combined charging, is the most preferred option.

4. Operating parameters: It is important to consider the output voltage and current of the starting device. It is recommended to choose a device with a margin that can operate in the range from 6 to 24 V. You should also pay attention to the current strength so that the device does not operate at maximum speed.

5. Indication: The choice of indication depends on personal preference. For the average driver, a cheap discrete display may be sufficient, but for more precise control, it is worth considering models with a quality display.

6. Workmanship: Be sure to pay attention to the quality of the case, wires and request a quality certificate.

Before using the device, it is important to read the instructions carefully and make sure that it is compatible with the battery. A properly selected and high-quality device can increase battery life and help save money.

If you are going to buy a charger for car batteries in Kyiv, Kharkov and Odessa, then in the online store 130.com.ua you will find a large selection of models at an affordable price with delivery throughout Ukraine.

Buy a charger for car batteries