There are several compelling reasons why someone might want to buy a car battery charger. These reasons range from how easy it is to carry through to what extended features it provides. Here we discuss the key points to consider in order to ensure you select the right jump starter to suit your application(s) and personal preferences:
Emergency Preparedness: Having a jump starter at hand not only affords protection in the event your starting battery dies or is drained to the point it can no longer start the vehicle, it also allows you to quickly and conveniently render assistance to other motorists in need. This eliminates the need to rely on emergency response in the event you over discharge your battery, or it fails in the field.
Long-Term Battery Maintenance: Regular use of a battery charger can extend the lifespan of your car's battery. It prevents the battery from becoming fully depleted and helps maintain its charge, reducing the risk of premature failure due to being allowed to drain to a low state-of-charge and stay there for an extended period. This will help slow the formation of sulfation within the battery, maximising its service life.
Infrequent Vehicle Use: The single biggest killer of lead-acid batteries is a process called sulfation. Sulfation is a form of degradation that occurs inside all lead-acid batteries to some degree, but which rapidly accelerates when the battery is allowed to drain down to a low state-of-charge. Using a maintenance charger is the best way to ensure your battery remains at a full state-of-charge at all times and is especially beneficial when used on vehicles that see infrequent use. Accordingly, a maintenance charger is perfect for use on classic cars, motorcycles, boats and recreational vehicles like camper trailers, caravans and motorhomes that see infrequent use.
Cost Savings: The cost effectiveness of any battery in a given application depends on more than the comparative purchase price of one option verses another. Ignoring any potential variance in performance between options, it is the purchase price divided by the service life in years that dictates the value achieved by one option verses another. While premium, more expensive batteries can be capable of substantially outlasting their more price focused competitors, they are no less likely to fail prematurely if not maintained correctly. One of the best ways to ensure you get the maximum possible service life out of a battery is by using a maintenance charger to ensure it never drops to a low state-of-charge.
Battery Testing: Some battery chargers are equipped with a voltmeter that allows you to see the terminal voltage of the battery upon connection. This provides a quick and convenient way to ascertain the health and state-of-charge of your battery in the field.
Peace of Mind: One of the key considerations often overlooked when factoring the need for an accessory or tool purchase is the value of not leaving things to chance and the knowledge you have yourself covered should the worst occur. Knowing that you have a reliable method to address battery problems can provide peace of mind, especially during long road trips or when traveling to remote areas.
Backup Power Source: Some advanced battery chargers can serve as portable power sources for small electronic devices or tools when you're away from an electrical outlet. One such example is the GX400 from M81 which integrates a PD60W compliant input/output capable of providing up to 60-Watts of power for rapidly charging everything from your watch, phone, tablet or laptop wherever you are.
Preventing Damage: Jump starting your vehicle can be a lifesaver when you need to get moving, and you have little alternative, However, attempting to jump-start a vehicle using another running vehicle can carry some risk of damaging the electrical systems due to voltage spikes. Most modern portable jump starters integrate a range of essential safety features that not only help to protect you from possible injury but also go a long towards preventing damage occurring to your charger, battery, vehicle and property.
When considering the purchase of a car battery charger, it's essential to choose one that suits your specific needs, is compatible with your vehicle's battery type and voltage, and has the right features for your requirements. Additionally, be sure to follow safety precautions and manufacturer instructions when using a battery charger to ensure safe and effective operation.
