Battery charger

A battery charger is a device that charges a rechargeable battery by forcing an electric current through it.

The charge supplied will vary depending on what kind of battery is being charged. For example, the charge regime used to recharge a calcium (Ca-Ca) car battery is different to the regime required to recharge a deep cycle marine battery or an AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) battery. There are a number of different types of Lead Acid battery types, and using a charger that does not have the correct regime can result in anything from an undercharged battery, to a battery that is overcharged and damaged beyond repair.

There are 4 different ways in which a battery can be charged, namely:

• Simple Charging – This is when a battery charger supplies DC power to a battery. The charge is constant and does not vary based on a timer or the current charge of the battery. They are generally cheap but take longer to charge a battery
• Trickle Charging – This is when a battery charger supplies a low current charge over a longer time period. A battery charger using the trickle charging method can sometimes be indefinitely connected to the battery (depending on the makeup of the battery charger)
• Timer Based Charging – This is when a battery charger stops its recharge after a set time. The downside of this method of battery charging is that overcharging may occur, which can cause irreversible damage to the battery.
• Intelligent Charging – The smart charging method usually relies on some kind of technology that can communicate with the battery and ascertain its level of charge. This allows the charger to balance its load and optimise the way it charges a battery. Charging is stopped when the battery reaches its capacity. A high quality intelligent charger can help keep a battery in a good state of health, which can also extend battery service life.

Different types of batteries need different ways and methods of charging to keep performing at their highest potential. Nickel Cadmium batteries benefit from being discharged to their minimum cell voltage every now and then. If this is not done, the battery will start to lose capacity, which is called memory effect. Most Lithium based batteries benefit from frequent charging, which helps maximise performance; frequent deep discharging of the battery can shorten the battery’s life. Lead acid batteries (used in cars, boats, trucks etc) can be discharged and charged on a fairly frequent basis, without too much degradation in performance, however they should be maintained correctly for optimum output. Lead Acid battery life can be extended by some margin if a device is used to float charge the battery (for example your vehicles alternator), as this will ensure the battery maintains a full charge indefinitely.

Battery Charging Checklist

• When charging your battery, make sure there are no flammable objects around - battery gases are very flammable as are easily ignited
• Before charging the battery, check the battery case for cracks. If there is any sign of damage, replace the battery
• If you live or visit alpine regions never charge a frozen battery, they can explode if charged while frozen!
• If the battery has vents, check these are clear of fragments or other blockages
• Always connect the charger to the battery before switching the charger on
• Switch the battery charger off before disconnecting it from the battery
• If possible, use a slow battery charge, this is more effective than a rapid charge
• If you notice the battery getting too hot (around 50 degrees Celsius), stop charging the battery immediately

Battery charging can be a way to increase the longevity and performance of your battery, however this is only true if the battery charger being used is compatible with the battery type. If you suspect your battery is extensively damaged or are unfamiliar with the ins and outs of batteries and battery chargers, call NRMA Batteries.

Call NRMA Batteries on 1300 726 751.

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