Battery chargers

Battery chargers make it possible to recharge car batteries from the AC mains. They can also be used to restore the battery capacity and to desulfate its plates. Some devices are fitted with a jump starter and a battery tester.

Types of battery chargers

By operating principle:

• Transformer (traditional) devices. Reliable and cheap. Universal, although, considered out-of-date. They aren’t fitted with an automatic mode therefore you have to use an ammeter to control the process. Some devices feature over-charge protection.
• Inverter (high frequency) devices. These are more modern and expensive ones. They comprise a built-in microprocessor which operates automatically and eliminates the risk of overcharging. Efficient and less harsh on the battery. Characterised by a compact size and a wide range of options: slow multi-stage charging or fast charging, winter mode, desulfation and memory modes, etc.

By battery rated voltage:

• 12V. For passenger cars and light commercial vehicles.
• 24V. For heavy-duty vehicles. Enable you to charge two batteries. They might be fitted with a voltage equaliser function to charge batteries connected in series.
• Universal. They are designed for batteries of different types: 6V and 12V, 12V and 24V. Fitted with a toggle switch to change between the modes. Buying them makes sense if you have different kinds of vehicles.

Operating instructions for battery chargers

• Read the instructions carefully before using the device.
• Always wear protective goggles and gloves while working. If electrolyte gets on your skin, it might cause a burn to it.
• Before connecting a charging cable, clean the battery terminals of corrosion and contaminants.
• Every time you should check the electrolyte. Do not charge the battery if it’s cloudy or contains impurities.
• Only use battery chargers in a properly ventilated room. Explosive hydrogen is discharged in the course of chemical reactions. You must not do it near open flames. Do not expose the device to temperatures above +50 °С for a long time.
• Not all types of chargers can be used in severe frost.
• If you need to charge a battery without removing it from the vehicle, make sure its engine and ignition are switched off and the parking brake is applied.
• You should always use insulated tools to connect the equipment.
• Prevent the charging cables from getting in contact with fuel lines due to the risk of fire.
• Keep the equipment far from heating appliances with its terminal leads apart to avoid short circuits.
• Never disassemble the device as it’s dangerous for your health. Get professional help if it needs repairing.

Professional help from Buycarparts.co.uk

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