Choosing the Right Motorcycle Battery Charger

Bien select motorcycle battery charger

this is a step that you should not neglect. Unlike batteries used in cars, motorcycle batteries are used more frequently. One time they can be overloaded, and another time they can not be used at all. Result: They may give up ghosting when you don't expect them to.

To avoid this, there is only one solution: a good charger. How to choose it? What criteria should be taken into account? Find out how to choose the right motorcycle battery charger.

How to choose a charger

What are the criteria for choosing a charger, which device is better to buy, how to choose the right one and what are they? Before purchasing a charger, first of all, you need to check the type of battery used in the car and find out its capacity. Capacity is measured in units of ampere per hour (Ah). It is worth considering the fact that different types of batteries have their own individual charging characteristics. Therefore, it is necessary to select a charger that is suitable for a specific, individual battery.

In addition, chargers differ in charging time. According to this criterion, they are of the following types:

• Slow (the entire charging procedure lasts from 14 to 24 hours);
• Accelerated (full charging time takes no more than 3 hours);
• Air conditioning (charging time takes about one hour).

When selecting an autocharger, you need to take into account the fact that not every battery is capable of charging at a fast or accelerated pace. Therefore, the power of the memory used must correspond to its capacity. Otherwise, the battery capacity may decrease or fail.

When selecting a charger, it is recommended to pay attention to exactly how the device detects and signals the end of the charging time. Cheap charger models are equipped with only one timer, which increases the risk of overcharging or incomplete charging

Most modern devices, including pulse chargers, are equipped with a special microcontroller that simultaneously measures several different parameters, thanks to which it can independently turn off the device after being fully charged.

How to charge a deeply discharged battery

The most detrimental thing for any battery is discharging to zero, when it is completely, 100% discharged. In this case, it is unlikely that it will be possible to completely restore the battery and return it to functionality. However, even in this case, it can still be saved if you use a special charging recovery memory for recovery.

Most popular charger models cannot recharge completely discharged batteries, as they do not have such functionality. In this case, the charger simply cannot detect a completely discharged battery and, as a result, select the desired charging mode.

How to charge a completely discharged battery with an external charger? To restore a completely discharged battery, it is recommended to use a universal charging model, which is equipped with a special mode that allows you to recharge a completely discharged battery. As a rule, pulse charging is used to restore full functionality.

Ability to charge a cold battery

The battery can be charged normally only at a positive temperature of its electrolyte. If the electrolyte temperature fluctuates within 5 degrees Celsius or less, it will have to be prepared for full charging in about 2 hours. Therefore, if the battery was brought from the cold to a warm room, it needs to be given a little time to warm up (it is desirable that the electrolyte temperature be more than 5 degrees Celsius).

However, there are special models of chargers that allow you to charge cold batteries that have been exposed to low temperatures for a long time or perform their desulfation procedure. Such chargers are equipped with a special temperature compensation function.

This function is also called “cold weather mode”. As a rule, most modern automatic chargers are equipped with this mode. This charging mode is suitable for almost all types of batteries, but most of all it is optimal for charging high-power AGM battery models.

How often should you charge your motorcycle battery?

The battery must be charged each time it is completely discharged. Conventional acid (in common parlance, lead) batteries, if they are not worn out, require recharging on average after 45-60 days; Old ones need to be recharged more often. But gel motorcycle batteries are more viable - 1-2 recharges per season will be enough for them.

Do not forget that the battery is characterized by a certain degree of self-discharge, even when turned off. This most often occurs in winter, when bikers park their motorcycles and batteries sit idle on racks.

It is hardly advisable to delay recharging until the time when the battery has stopped showing all signs of life during any attempts to start the motorcycle. This may ultimately result in over-discharging, which is highly undesirable and can greatly affect the health of the battery.

To eliminate undesirable consequences, it is necessary to monitor the condition of the device and regularly test it with a voltmeter.

A simple testing procedure involves the following steps: the indicator is set at 20 volts, the red probe goes to ( +) , the black probe goes to ( –) . We look at the readings (volts):

• 12.3 – position within normal limits, no recharging required;
• 11-12.2 – the battery needs to be charged;
• before 11 – critical condition, urgent recharging is needed, although it may not save the situation.

ADDITIONAL OPTIONS

1) Reconditioning (desulphation) of the battery

Inside a long and deeply discharged battery, acid salts settle in a dense layer on the plates. And the acid itself goes inside the plates, leaving only water. The density of the electrolyte is close to zero. Capacity too. Standard charging of such a battery is impossible, since there is no point in charging with water. The battery can be saved. You should only use chargers with desulfation mode. This uses pulse charging. A small charging current is started with pauses. This impulse gradually breaks down the salts on the plates.

2) Automatic charging process

The standard charging process requires utmost attention. To prevent undercharging and overcharging and not ruining the battery, you need to find out the density of the electrolyte, the percentage of discharge and monitor the ammeter scale. The best chargers are automatic. They have a built-in microcontroller. It will first charge the battery with constant current, and at the end of the process it will automatically switch to constant voltage mode. The price of an automatic charger is more expensive, but the work is made many times easier.

3) Charge timer

The installed timer allows you to set the desired charging time. After it expires, the device turns off without your supervision. This is not the same as automatic charging, but is still a useful option. The user does not need to control the time himself. Very convenient for fast charging mode.

4) Trickle charge function

This mode is only possible in inverter chargers. The smart device enables this function and the battery capacity is not reduced. Convenient for cars that will be left without a charge for a long time.

5) Support function (battery simulation)

A microprocessor-based charger often has a battery simulation function. The inverter board simulates the charge-discharge cycle. It is very useful to prevent the battery from self-discharging. It also protects battery plates from sulfation and corrosion. 6) Reverse polarity protection

The protective system is triggered when there is an error in connecting the terminals according to “plus or minus”. If the ROM is connected incorrectly, the fuses will fail.

How to extend the operating life of the device?

Despite the fact that the 12 Volt gel battery is maintenance-free, its service life can be extended. It cannot be revived; it will be disposed of. In this case, the gel is separated from the plates, and energy production becomes impossible. Internal damage is difficult to detect. These include wear of the fiberglass, electrodes or electrolyte.

When the filler dries, restoration is possible. To do this, remove the plastic cover and remove the rubber valves. Using a syringe, pour 2 ml of purified water into each jar. The liquid should slightly cover the plates. After moistening the gel, excess water is pumped out with a syringe. The caps and lid are returned to their place.

How to choose

The main parameter influencing the choice of charger is the output current. There must be a relationship with the characteristics of the battery.

The second, but no less important selection criterion is the output power and the maximum output charging current. The charger parameters cannot be lower than those required for the normal functioning of the battery installed in the vehicle. The output current should be greater than that with which you will charge the battery. Usually they are charged with a current equal to 1/10 of the capacity, i.e. 55 Ah is charged with a current of 5.5-6A. If the output current of the charger is lower, the charging process will take longer.

To decide which memory device to buy, you need to decide on functionality. It depends on several factors:

• how many cars he will have to service, whether they are all passenger cars or whether there are also truck models;
• whether the car is parked at night in a warm garage or in a guarded parking lot;
• where the driver travels more often - around the city or outside it.

For those who are more accustomed to personally controlling the charging process, it is better to choose a model with manual adjustment. The set of protective functionality on all memory devices is almost the same:

• overcharge protection;
• protection against polarity reversal (incorrect connection to + and - on the battery);
• short circuit protection;
• overheat protection.

From this point of view, it does not matter which device to purchase. But the emergency charging mode is not always available for products from most manufacturers.

The presence of this mode allows you to bring the battery to the desired condition in a short period of time. However, it is recommended to use it only in emergency cases, as it is harmful to the battery. Another important function that is desirable in the selected model is the ability to start the engine when the battery is completely discharged. It is present in chargers belonging to the starting-charging class.

According to the charging technology used in the device, the following types are distinguished:

1. Providing direct current. With their help, charging occurs quickly, but this leads to accelerated aging, since there is no provision for a decrease in the current as the charge progresses.
2. Providing constant voltage. The required value is maintained by the device, which eliminates overheating of the electrolyte. But reducing the current at the final stage does not allow reaching the maximum capacity.
3. The combined technology combines both technologies, which makes the charging process more efficient.

Having all the information presented above, any car owner will be able to choose the best option for their battery.

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How to revive a dead battery?

Before you start reviving a completely dead battery, you need to find out the possible reasons for its failure.

Electrolyte boils when charging

If this is observed in one of the sections, then in all likelihood a short circuit of the plates has occurred. In this situation, instead of charging the battery, rinse the jar with distilled water. Do the procedure until all the coal chips disappear. Then bring the electrolyte in the battery to the required density and charge it.

If this method turns out to be useless, then the battery will no longer be of any use: with a closed battery, one conversation - to the landfill. Alternatively, you can mechanically close the plate (in road conditions) to get home.

Reducing battery capacity to zero

Most likely the battery plates have become sulfated. To revive a motorcycle battery, you need to stock up on:

• distilled water;
• nominal (1.28 g/cc) electrolyte density;
• hydrometer - a device that measures the density of the electrolyte (small devices are available for motorcycles);
• a charger with adjustable current;
• to the electrolyte - a desulfating additive.

As a rule, the process of cleaning battery plates is described in the instructions, but the key points are as follows:

1. Fill the battery with electrolyte.
2. We add an additive to the jars (there are also those that are added before filling).
3. We expect it to dissolve in the electrolyte within 48 hours.
4. We carry out a cycle of running the battery: we charge and immediately discharge the battery (we use the brake light lamp for this, but not the bike starter).

The discharge process should be continued until the voltage is at 10 volts. The cycle must be repeated until the nominal density of the electrolyte in the battery is reached.

The battery being serviced must have a special tube that will facilitate the removal of gases and condensate during operation. It should extend outside the bike and not close.

The best budget battery chargers

Such models cost no more than 2,500 rubles and are small in size. They are not resistant to harsh operating conditions, but can operate successfully in conjunction with various types of batteries.

Caliber ZUI-4

4.9

★★★★★ editorial assessment

96% of buyers recommend this product

The device is controlled using one button. The digital display displays all the necessary charging information, and LED indicators promptly warn the user of model overheating, incorrect polarity, or network failures.

The permissible capacity is 120 Ah, charging power consumption is up to 60 W. The capabilities of the automatic mode include determining the type of battery and residual voltage, as well as restoring deeply discharged batteries. The device is protected from network interruptions and can operate at temperatures down to -5 °C.

Advantages:

• simple controls;
• automatic operation;
• the presence of a “winter” mode;
• versatility;
• high degree of protection.

Flaws:

lack of fast charging mode.

The ZUI-4 caliber is used in conjunction with gel or lead-acid batteries. A reliable choice for owners of cars with petrol and diesel engines.

Patriot BCI-10M

4.9

★★★★★ editorial assessment

94% of buyers recommend this product

The model is equipped with a transport handle for easy carrying and connection. The device is connected to the battery using alligator clips, which eliminates current loss and heating at the contact points. Visual control of the current value is provided by a built-in ammeter.

Charging power consumption is up to 400 W, maximum battery capacity is 150 Ah. The presence of a current limit regulator and resistance to voltage deviations of up to 15% guarantees stable and safe operation of the device.

Advantages:

• ease of operation;
• reliability;
• electronic control;
• stable work;
• Compact size and easy to carry.

Flaws:

works noisily.

Patriot BCI-10M is convenient for storage and transportation. This safe and durable device will be appreciated by car owners with high-capacity batteries.

Vympel-30

4.8

★★★★★ editorial assessment

90% of buyers recommend this product

The model is equipped with a fan that automatically turns on when the permissible temperature is exceeded, which protects the device from overheating. The durable case ensures the protection of internal elements from mechanical stress, and the Boost mode ensures fast charging in any conditions.

The maximum capacity of the connected battery is 200 Ah, the permissible current is 18 A. The device can be used as a power supply to facilitate engine starting and is capable of replenishing the energy reserve of even a completely discharged battery.

Advantages:

• reliability;
• built-in ammeter;
• overheat protection;
• smooth adjustment of the output current.

Flaws:

poor terminal insulation.

Vympel-30 is recommended for charging alkaline batteries. Economical and compact solution for use in any weather.

BestWeld InCharger 6-12V-4A BW6001

4.8

★★★★★ editorial assessment

88% of buyers recommend this product

The main features of the model are safety of use and long service life. The device has several levels of protection: from connection to a faulty battery, polarity reversal, overheating, short circuit, incorrect choice of charge mode, etc.

The maximum capacity of the rechargeable battery is 90 Ah, the permissible charge voltage is 14.8 V. The wide display displays one of four operating modes and the replenished amount of energy. The device can be operated at temperatures from -20 to +40 °C.

Advantages:

• stable work;
• durability;
• heat resistance;
• high protection class;
• LCD screen.

Flaws:

brittle wires.

BestWeld InCharger is worth purchasing for owners of cars equipped with lead batteries. The best option for use in unfavorable climates.

Battery charging rules

To ensure proper use of the battery, you should check its charge from time to time. This is done using a multimeter, an electronic device that combines the ability to measure voltage in various devices. It is necessary to connect it with probes to the battery and switch it to the direct current position of 20 volts. The scooter must not be started. To charge a gel battery at home, you only need to use a charger suitable for it. The charger must certainly have the ability to adjust the voltage.

Charger for gel battery with voltage regulation

Never try to charge a gel battery using a charger designed for car batteries. You should also ensure uninterrupted power supply to the device during charging. Charging occurs in the following way: on the charger, the charging current should be set to 10% of the battery power. If the current is higher, then there is a risk of significantly reducing the service life. The power is indicated directly on the battery case.

Calculation of current level for charging

It is easy to calculate the required current level for charging. If the battery's rated power is 7 Amps, then the maximum voltage will be 0.7 Amps. To fully charge a gel battery at home it will take about 12 hours.

How to extend service life

To extend the service life of a new gel battery when it is completely discharged, you need to charge it by reducing the voltage to 0.30 Am and increasing the charging time to a day. It is necessary to ensure that the voltage when charging does not exceed 15 volts. At this voltage, a lead battery would immediately boil, releasing toxic fumes into the environment.

A gel battery will simply swell at this voltage, due to the complete sealing of the battery. Which will lead to a rapid expiration of service life, as corrosion will occur inside. You should take the issue of charging the gel battery yourself very seriously.

Operating rules.

Any charger requires at least minimal care and compliance with basic operating rules. If the approach to the device is correct, even those made in China will work for a long time.

Basic recommendations for using the charger are as follows:

• Before turning on, inspect all ventilation openings, as they prevent the charger from overheating;
• check that the current parameters in the garage network correspond to the technical characteristics of the charger;
• clean the battery leads and terminals of the device;
• When connecting the charger to the battery, observe the polarity: connect the positive wire to the “+” terminal of the battery, and attach the negative terminal to the “-” terminal;
• do not disconnect the charger terminals from the battery terminals during charging;
• do not start the car engine while charging;
• after fully charging, first turn off the charger, and only then disconnect the wires;
• Store the device in a place inaccessible to dust, dirt and moisture.

How to prepare a battery for charging

Preparing the device for charging is carried out according to the following algorithm:

1. Remove the battery from the car or disconnect it from the on-board network, disconnecting both wires or at least the negative wire. In the cold season, you need to bring the battery into a room with a temperature of at least +10°C and leave it for several hours so that the electrolyte has time to warm up.
2. Clean the terminals from oxides, sulfides and grease. Wipe the surface of the battery with a rag moistened with a solution of soda or ammonia (10%).
3. If the battery is a serviceable type, unscrew the caps located on the banks and place them next to each other. Drain off some of the electrolyte to check the color and presence of impurities. If the battery is maintenance-free, then remove the plug from the ventilation hole on the device. This will ensure the free release of reagent vapors and make the procedure safer.
4. Serviceable battery plugs allow you to add water to the sections. If the plates in the jar are immersed in the reagent by less than 0.5 cm, then it is necessary to add a little distilled water into it and level the level in other sections. This procedure is not carried out for a maintenance-free device, because the reagent remains at the required level throughout the entire service life.

Pulse or transformer

Now there are only two types of “chargers”:

• Transformer
• Pulse

Transformer models are outdated models that are based (as the name implies) on “transformers”. They are bulky, heavy and are now practically out of production. The advantages of these models include reliability and fault tolerance.

Pulse models are much lighter and more compact, and most importantly, they are cheaper; they are now simply flooding the market. With the development of technology, they have also become quite stable and fault-tolerant.

Personally, I recommend that you take impulse options, they often weigh 3–4 times less than your opponent’s and cost up to two times less.

What care does a gel battery require?

You cannot use the vehicle until the battery is completely discharged. When the charge decreases, the battery does not stop functioning. However, the capacity decreases, due to which the battery will not be able to accept the required amount of energy. You need to purchase a multimeter and keep it with you at all times. This will help you detect the low battery in time, connect the charger and recharge.

Additionally, it is recommended to perform the following actions:

• regularly clean the battery case from dust and dirt;
• Once every 3 months completely discharge and;
• check the correct connection of the terminals.

Starter charger

With a completely discharged battery, you can start the car in several ways. The first method involves using a pusher, which, by the way, is not always possible to find. Also, in order to start the vehicle, you can light the battery from another car. However, when using this method, the donor car may experience problems with electronics. It is for this reason that not every driver will agree to use the battery of their car as a donor.

When the battery is completely discharged, in order to start the car, it is best to use starting chargers (ROM). It is worth noting that ROMs are easy to use. To start a vehicle using such a device, you need to connect it, observing the polarity, to the battery terminals.

Then you need to set the charging current value within 15-20 A and constantly monitor the voltage readings at the terminals. When the voltage level reaches 15V, you can try to start the vehicle. In this case, the starter must be turned on for approximately 10 seconds. There is no need to disable the auto ROM during startup.

It is worth noting that most popular ROM models can also be used to recharge car batteries. As a rule, such devices can work with batteries whose rated voltage is 12V and 24V. The best, high-quality popular ROM models are equipped with adjustment of the current set for recharging.

Rules and methods for charging a 12 Volt motorcycle battery

When charging a 12 V battery, you must follow the rules to extend the life of the element.

General charging scheme

The general charging algorithm includes the following actions:

Before charging, the battery must be removed from the motorcycle.

1. Removing the battery from the socket. The plugs are unscrewed from the battery being serviced. After this, a hydrometer is prepared to measure the density of the electrolyte.
2. Charge level assessment. A hydrometer reading of 12.3 g/cm³ indicates full charge. At 50% power recovery, the density is 1.2 g/cm³. With a full discharge, the indicator will be 1.12 g/cm³.
3. Connecting the charger. The positive contact is connected to the positive terminal of the battery. Set the desired charging current. If there is no marking, the supplied power should be 10% of the battery capacity. You need to charge the battery until the density of the filler increases to 1.26 g/cm³.

Fast charging

The method involves applying high current. The charge can be restored in a few hours. The procedure resembles standard charging, but the current parameters have maximum values. Before starting the process, make sure the battery is suitable for fast charging.

Manufacturers do not recommend frequently applying high current. The electrodes are damaged, which is why the battery begins to work incorrectly after installation in the motorcycle. Repeatedly exceeding the recommended current parameters leads to an explosion.

Charging an acid battery

The current strength when restoring the charge of such a power source should be 1/10 of the capacity. The desired parameter is set using the regulator. Charging continues until the voltage reaches a value equal to the number of battery cans multiplied by 2. When the charge is restored, bubbles begin to appear on the surface of the electrolyte. Having reduced the current by 2 times, continue charging.

Constant current

When charging with a non-automatic charger, you need to control the density of the electrolyte.

The required current power is calculated by dividing the battery capacity by 10. At 6 A/h, 0.6 A is sufficient. This current is obtained using a pulsed device.

Using this method, the motorcycle owner must regularly evaluate the properties of the electrolyte. The current is adjusted every hour. When the voltage increases to 14.4 V, the parameter is reduced by 50%.

Stabilization of voltage and density indicates complete restoration of power.

Charging at a stable voltage

The degree of charge recovery of a 12-volt motorcycle battery is determined by the voltage of the charger. It takes 24 hours for the battery to fully recover. The output voltage should be 16.4 V. The battery is charged automatically, no measurements are needed. 100% charging is indicated by equalization of the voltage at the terminals of the battery and charger.

Using a current stabilizer

The part smoothes out voltage surges that can damage the battery. Malfunctions can occur when connecting a completely discharged element to a charger that produces 10 A. The voltage increases to 12 V, and the plates are deformed, shorting the banks. Stabilizers prevent such breakdowns. The charger is set to a current equal to 5% of the battery power. At 100% charge the indicator will drop to 0.

Pulse current

A charger operating on this principle produces alternating current. The parameters increase or decrease at certain intervals. The current can be pulsating or asymmetrical. In the second case, the polarity takes on a new value in each cycle. Charging with the pulsating method is carried out by changing the current characteristics.

Charging a maintenance free battery

The terminals of a closed battery are connected to the terminals of the charger, taking into account the polarity. Select the minimum current power. The device is connected to the mains.

To properly charge the battery, select a current strength of 1/10 of the power of the power source. The value is determined using an ammeter. When a parameter is changed, it is returned to its original value. The battery is charged until the voltage increases to 13.8 V.

The best chargers

Based on the above characteristics, we offer a list of the best car battery chargers, according to car enthusiasts, that can be bought on the market today:

Orion PW150

Russian charger with a simple design and affordable price. Practical, durable, designed for automatic charging of lead-acid batteries (there are no mode switching knobs - everything works on its own). The indicators reflect information about the battery charge and the charging process activity. The device cannot “revive” a battery that has been discharged to zero, but is capable of recharging batteries when partially discharged.

Auto electrics T-1001AP

Domestic charging for batteries with a current of up to 9A (old and modern gel batteries), which are installed on motorcycles and passenger cars. It works reliably, with high quality and durability, prevents rapid sulfation of battery plates, increasing their service life, and can be connected to check the correct operation of the relay regulator and the car's electric generator.

Quattro Elementi I-Charge 10

Italian charger with large dimensions for charging high-level batteries with a maximum capacity of up to 100Ah. Rated voltage - 6.5A. Automatically analyzes the parameters of each battery and regulates the optimal current strength for it, has a built-in warning system. It has a positive effect on the service life of batteries (especially in winter), but is not designed for charging completely discharged batteries.

Kolner KBCH-4

Budget charger made in Russia with manual adjustment of the charging process. Reliable, easy to operate and control, can operate as a pulse starter, connects to a 220V network or an autonomous generator. It is blocked if the battery terminals are connected incorrectly, and has a charge level indication on the front panel.

Sonar UZP-210

Russian charger for car batteries with optimal performance characteristics for charging 12 and 6A batteries. Practical and easy to operate (control - manual, charging principle - combined). Quickly charges the battery and goes into sleep mode.

ZPU 135

Today's best professional transformer-type charger with high power and a starting-charging pulse option (up to 140A), capable of charging completely discharged 13A batteries. Optimal equipment for service stations and vehicle fleets. Among the disadvantages: there is no blocking against terminal polarity reversal and short circuit.

Fubag Cold Start 300/12

One of the best German charger models with manual charge control. It is controlled by microprocessors and is able to “revive” a discharged battery under any weather and technical conditions (it quickly builds up its charge). Does not reduce battery capacity during operation.

Smart Power SP-25N

Finnish professional high-quality charger with support for charging batteries at 12 and 24V. It is compact, has high power, and can be used by both individuals and at a service station or in a commercial garage. It has a sealed case and an informative display on the front panel. Capable of working for many hours in constant charging mode and restoring completely discharged batteries.

Redhotdot Volta G-260

A high-quality German-Italian charger with an informative digital display, designed for automated maintenance of batteries in passenger cars, motorcycles and heavy-duty vehicles. It has a built-in protection system against polarity reversal and short circuit, and is capable of restoring completely discharged batteries.

Daewoo DW 800

A Japanese charger, considered one of the best automatic microprocessor chargers on the Russian market. Performs battery diagnostics and determines the level of sulfation of the plates, independently selects the characteristics and charging modes, and has protection against polarity reversal and overheating of the wiring. It is equipped with an informative display, reanimates batteries and can double their service life.

What are gel batteries?

A gel battery is a conversion product of a classic battery. The liquid filler was replaced with a gel filler. The operating principle is no different from that of conventional lead-acid batteries.

There are 2 options for manufacturing such batteries:

1. GEL technology. In this case, a microporous separator filled with silica gel is used.
2. AGM technology. The body contains fiberglass impregnated with an acid composition. The same material serves as a separator.

However, they are in demand among owners of motorcycles and mopeds. The battery lasts at least 10 years. It works properly in any position. The tightness of the housing prevents leakage of electrolyte.

Advantages

The advantages of gel power sources include the following qualities:

Gel batteries are safe and have a long service life.

1. High inrush current. The gel filler adheres tightly to the lead electrodes. This helps the user in winter.
2. Impossibility of leakage of acid composition. If the housing is slightly damaged, the electrolyte does not drain out.
3. Variety of installation options. The battery can be placed on a horizontal, inclined or vertical surface. This is due to the lack of liquid filler.
4. Safety. The battery does not emit toxic or explosive fumes.
5. Supplying current with stable strength and voltage. The parameters do not change even when the charge level drops to 30%.
6. Long service life. The battery can withstand up to 700 discharge and charge cycles. Some models do not lose capacity even after 1000 charges.
7. Insensitive to temperature changes. When heated or cooled, the gel-like electrolyte retains its properties.

Flaws

The negative qualities of GEL batteries include the following:

1. The need to comply with operating rules. This is the only way to extend battery life. The battery must be properly charged and prepared for storage.
2. The need to use automatic chargers that regulate voltage and current.
3. Increased cost compared to classic batteries.

An example of specialized chargers for lead-acid and gel batteries from Optima and Universal.

Advantages and disadvantages. Tips for choosing

When choosing a device, you should clearly understand the difference between a starting device and a starting charger. The first ones ensure that the engine starts when the battery is discharged. They are mobile and have high energy efficiency. But not all devices can charge a vehicle battery quickly and efficiently. And if the electric vehicle's power supply is discharged, the starting unit will not help - we have not found any that are compatible with the connectors of such machines.

Starting chargers are universal - they perform both starting and charging of the vehicle. But they are quite difficult to operate. Most models operate exclusively from the network. The supply of standalone ROMs remains limited.

ROM Airline AJS-55-05

When choosing a device, you should correctly calculate the main parameters - battery capacity, starting current and charge voltage. The values ​​depend on the type of vehicle. For example, for small cars with an engine capacity of up to 1.6 liters, a capacity of 55 mAh and a starting current of 100 amperes are used. If we are talking about a bus with a volume of up to 5 liters, then there are already 150 amperes and 140 mAh, respectively. A heavy load needs only 200: both amperes of current and capacity in milliampere hours. Detailed information is contained on the battery case, power source and/or vehicle datasheet.

Additional functions will also be important, the set of which depends on the specific model:

Desulfitization of the device. Over time, electrolyte salts settle on the battery plates. Standard charging is impossible - only water remains inside the case, which makes no sense to charge. This function restores the original balance of battery electrolyte density. Continuous charge. Eliminates power supply capacity degradation

It is important if you are planning a long trip or if charging the car using the standard method is impossible. Automatic replenishment of charges. When the critical value is reached, the device will automatically turn on charging

The driver won't notice anything. After passing the 80% mark, the device will turn off.

ROM Vympel-80

Checking the car battery

There are several ways to check the battery charge:

Battery check.

1. Using an indicator on the case. Some batteries are equipped with a hydrometric indicator. It allows you to evaluate not only the charge, but also the fullness of the reagent. When the indicator is green, the charge and acid level are normal; when it is white, the device requires recharging; and when it is red, the charge is at a minimum and/or the reagent needs to be topped up.
2. Using a multimeter. The diagnostic device is set to voltmeter mode and connected to the battery terminals. At the same time, the engine must be turned off: otherwise the driver will receive a charge from the generator, not the battery. When there is no load, the voltage at 100% charge is 12.66 V, at 75% - 12.42 V, at 50% - 12.18 V, at 0% - 11.7-11.8 V. Considering the small difference in indicators, The multimeter must have a minimum measurement error.
3. Using a load coil. This diagnostic device is a resistance element (18-20 mOhm), to which a voltmeter is connected in parallel. The coil is connected to the battery outputs for a few seconds, and then the readings are taken from the measuring device. Load tests are carried out mainly in car repair shops or at the point of sale of car batteries.

The charge level is measured no earlier than 8-9 hours after turning off the engine or.

Experienced motorists identify an additional method of checking the battery: by ear. If the charge is at a sufficient level, the car starter rotates normally. When the charge decreases, the power system starts with effort, and the starter spins more slowly and with noticeable attenuation.

In service centers, the charge is often measured when starting an internal combustion engine (ICE) or lighting devices (dimensions and high beams).

When starting an internal combustion engine, the voltage norm is 9.5 V or more. If the voltmeter readings are below this value, this indicates a discharge of the battery or a malfunction of the starter. For differential diagnostics, a guaranteed working and fully charged battery is installed in the vehicle.

Transformer chargers

Let's move on to a review of the best automotive chargers that use transformers.

DECA CLASS 16A

Used to charge maintenance-free batteries and lead batteries with gel electrolyte. There is protection against short circuit in the output circuit, overload, and reverse polarity. If your car does not start for weeks or even months, for example, during shift work, choose Deca CLASS, as it is able to keep the battery in working condition all this time.

WEIDERKRAFT WDK Start620

WEIDERKRAFT WDK Start620
In addition to charging batteries, this device is used to start any passenger cars, light trucks, minibuses, and motorcycles. Used wherever lead-acid batteries are used. WEIDERKRAFT WDK is protected against reverse polarity when connecting and recharging. This is a starter charger.

FORTE CB 15FP

FORTE CB 15FP connects to any household network. Extending the service life of the battery is facilitated by the presence of overcharge protection, and the charger is protected from polarity reversal (incorrect connection of probes to the battery). Fuses protect against overloads. The insulation class allows heating of insulating materials up to 180°C. You don't need a lot of space to store the device, as it is small in size.

GARWIN CHARGE GE CB220

GARWIN CHARGE GE CB220
Charger for professionals allows you to charge batteries in accelerated mode, delivering a current of 27 A. But it only applies to completely discharged batteries. At the same time, the temperature is constantly monitored to prevent overheating. It tolerates mechanical stress and low temperatures (down to -40°C).

ELITECH UZ 20/12

ELITECH UZ 20/12
Metal is used to make the case, which guarantees complete safety of the internal contents. Charging is performed in standard and fast mode. There is a special pocket for cable management, and a convenient handle for transportation.

How to charge a gel battery for a scooter

When recharging a gel battery, follow these rules:

1. Do not completely discharge the power source. You need to start the procedure when the battery is in good working order. Otherwise, the battery capacity may decrease. Gel batteries function normally at 20% charge.
2. Always monitor your charge level. A multimeter is used for this.

Gel battery - charging and maintenance

Recharging a gel battery for a motorcycle is carried out using special chargers.

This type of battery is recharged using a special device. A car charger is not suitable for this purpose. During the procedure, the voltage supplied to the battery is monitored.

This parameter should not be more than 14.4 V. If this rule is violated, the gel filler turns into gas and comes out. Adding electrolyte is not possible. Charging can be done anywhere.

Charger

To restore the charge of the gel battery, a charger with a voltage regulator is used. Before starting the procedure, the value is set at 10% of the battery capacity. The latter can be found on the body of the product.

How long to charge a gel battery for a scooter

You can achieve 100% power recovery after 12 hours.

Main characteristics of chargers

Before choosing a charger for your own car battery, the car owner needs to decide which battery is installed in his car.

The modern car market offers batteries of the WET, AGM, GEL types. WET batteries are the most common and run on liquid electrolyte. AGM uses impregnated fiberglass, while GEL uses gel. The last two varieties are used much less frequently and are charged with special devices, since they do not tolerate sudden surges in current and voltage during charging.

In addition, it is necessary to find out the voltage of the battery. Most passenger cars are equipped with 12 V batteries. Trucks mainly run on 24 V batteries.

Some parameters of the charger (charger) must take into account the nominal battery capacity indicated on the sticker. This value is also necessary to know. Only after finding out the specified characteristics should you begin to select a suitable memory device.

Chargers are classified according to several parameters. Depending on the purpose, they can be:

• chargers - for charging the battery;
• starting - for starting;
• starting-charging – universal purpose, providing both of the listed capabilities.

Starter chargers are more expensive. But their capabilities are wider than other types of chargers. When choosing a device, it is necessary to take into account individual circumstances: if you intend to use it in an electrified garage, you should purchase an expensive universal model. However, to start the engine on the road, an inexpensive compact device that does not require additional power will be useful.

Depending on the design, pulse and transformer type chargers are distinguished. Transformer charging is characterized by large dimensions, so for domestic conditions it is worth giving preference to the pulse model. The high price is compensated by smaller dimensions, perfect design and the presence of short circuit protection.

Operating modes

Any battery can be charged in the following ways:

• through constant voltage;
• constant electric current;
• in an integrated manner.

The first of the listed methods is the most optimal. If you use constant current, charging will be much faster, but this method is not very safe for the battery.

It is recommended to gradually reduce the supplied power during the charging process - only an intelligent charger has such capabilities. In it, the current parameters are adjusted automatically, and when the battery is fully charged, the device turns off without external influence. If the battery is not used for a long time (serves as a spare), such a device can be connected throughout the winter, automatically recharging the battery.

If you need to start the engine with a completely empty battery, the choice of charger is obvious - only a starting charger will do.

Some chargers have a Boost mode, which allows you to charge the battery in a very short time. But you should not abuse the use of this mode, since the battery wears out very quickly, and such devices are not suitable for all types of batteries.

Voltage supplied by the charger

When choosing voltage, this parameter should be taken into account for the car battery. As already noted, a 12 V charger is suitable for a passenger car, and a 24 V charger for a truck. Motorcycle vehicles are charged with a 6 V charger. Universal chargers are available that provide the ability to switch to different voltages. But such devices will only be needed in specialized workshops where various equipment is repaired, and they should not be purchased by the average car enthusiast.

Charging current

The optimal charger current is selected based on the battery capacity. To do this, the specified value must be divided by ten. The rated current of the charger should not exceed the obtained value. If you choose charging with a lower current, the battery charging process will take longer, but there will be no harm to the battery.

If you purchase a charger with a current slightly higher than the calculated value, but which provides the possibility of adjustment, this will allow you to use the device sparingly at the optimal load. You will have to pay a little more for such a product, but it will pay off as it will ensure the proper quality of battery restoration.

Advantages of scooters

They differ from their larger counterparts - motorcycles and mopeds - in a number of positive qualities. They have even more advantages over bicycles - their younger brothers.

After transferring to a scooter from a bicycle, the driver will not have any difficulty maintaining balance, since the weight of the latter rarely exceeds 60 kg.

Scooters are divided into:

• urban, designed for short trips on a flat asphalt surface;
• retro, made in the style of the fifties;
• cruisers, the purpose of which is comfortable long rides.

Since scooters do not have a gas tank at the front, the riding position is more comfortable. Also, the advantages of these devices include the presence of an automatic transmission and electric engine start, no need to obtain a driver’s license, and a low price.

The advantages, as you can see, are quite significant. In order to continue to be the owner of a scooter, you need an alarm system that can scare away intruders.

There is a wide range of it on the motor market, so everyone will find an option that suits their taste preferences and financial capabilities.