What Is a Trickle Charger? | Keeping Your Batteries Fully Charged
Are you wondering what trickle charging is and how to use it? Learn all you need to know about when to use a trickle charger below.
Have you ever experienced the frustration of a dead battery just when you're ready to head out on adventure? Whether the battery is in your car, RV, boat, ATV, golf cart or other outdoor toy - when you store a deep cycle lead acid battery for any amount of time it is going to lose some power.
Worry no more, as trickle chargers are here to save the day! These devices play a crucial role in maintaining your battery, especially during long-term storage or seasonal use.
But what is trickle charging? And how long should you leave one on your battery?
Let's dive into the world of trickle chargers and discover how they can keep your battery in optimal condition, ensuring your vehicle is always ready for action.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
NOTE: Trickle chargers are not compatible with lithium batteries. If you have invested in lithium batteries and want to ensure that you are keeping them healthy during the off-season, be sure to check out this post.
What Is Trickle Charging
Every type of 12 volt battery will lose energy over time through what is called self-discharging. Lithium batteries lose the least amount of power, at around 2-3% per month during non-use. But other types of batteries, particularly lead acid batteries, will lose even more energy, with lead acid batteries self-discharging between 12-15% each month.
Plus, a lead acid battery only has around a 50% depth of discharge, meaning it should never be used, or lose, more than half of its capacity (at 12.07 volts). Thus any time you want to put the battery into storage mode, whether for the week or an entire season, you run the risk of harming the battery if it’s voltage drops too low.
A trickle charger is a device that gradually supplies power to batteries, preventing them from losing charge when not in use. By charging at a slower and steady rate, trickle charging a battery ensures that it never becomes completely dead and can be left connected for an extended period without overcharging.
As a result, using a fully automatic trickle charger can save you from the unnecessary stress of jump-starting your vehicle and prolong the life of your battery.
The Basics of Trickle Charging
Trickle charging is a continuous, slow charge supplied to a storage battery to keep it in a fully charged state. This method is often utilized for lead acid batteries that are not in frequent use or for long-term storage.
But don't confuse trickle charging with float charging: while both methods maintain a battery's charge level, trickle charging involves charging a lead-acid battery that is already fully charged at a rate equivalent to its self-discharge rate, whereas float charging entails continuous charging at a constant voltage.
Thus flat charging could cause battery damage if the battery level is already sufficiently charged.
Trickle Chargers vs. Regular Car Battery Chargers
One might wonder about the difference between trickle chargers and regular car battery chargers. The primary distinction lies in the amperage output: a trickle charger offers a low amperage option, usually between 1-3 amps per hour, whereas a regular car battery charger does not.
This low amperage is crucial for preventing damage to the battery during long-term storage or seasonal use. In essence, trickle chargers for a car battery are specifically designed for maintaining batteries in optimal condition, whereas regular car battery chargers are meant for more general charging purposes.
You may find yourself in need of a fast charge from a car charger to get one big boost of amperage into the battery to jump start it, rather than maintaining battery level voltage with a trickle charger over an extended period.
Trickle Charge vs Fast Charging
When it comes to charging lead-acid batteries, it's important to understand the difference between trickle charging and fast charging. Charging a lead-acid battery too quickly can cause it to overheat and emit off-gassing, which may result in damage.
This off-gassing may lead to battery terminal corrosion and/or the sulfuric acid inside the battery may become dangerous when you attempt to work with the battery at a later time.
A suitable trickle current can avert this by charging the batteries gradually and detecting the state of charge to reduce the amperage as the battery approaches a full charge. In essence, trickle charging is a safer and more reliable method for maintaining your battery's health and longevity.
Types of Trickle Chargers
Trickle chargers come in two main varieties: smart and manual. Smart trickle chargers are equipped with an automatic mechanism that activates and deactivates depending on the battery's charge level. In contrast, manual trickle chargers require user intervention and simply deliver a low amperage without the ability to detect when to deactivate.
Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so let's take a closer look at both.
Smart Trickle Chargers
When it comes to battery maintenance, smart trickle chargers are the more advanced option compared to most trickle chargers, featuring automated systems that allow them to turn on and off in response to the battery's charge level. This makes them more efficient and user-friendly.
Smart trickle chargers also come with additional features, such as temperature compensation and integrated thermal sensors, which help maintain the optimal charge and prevent overcharging and undercharging. These chargers are ideal for those who want a hassle-free, reliable solution to battery maintenance.
Ideally, a smart charger will provide a recharge amperage at a rate equal to the self-discharge of the battery, thus the battery will top off and essentially remain fully charged during the duration of its storage.
As a result of the advanced technology and the added features, a smart battery charger will cost more than a basic trickle charger. But you will save the money in the long term by keeping your battery healthy for a longer lifespan.
Manual Trickle Chargers
Manual chargers, such as trickle chargers, are more straightforward to use, but require manual disconnection when the battery is fully charged. This can be inconvenient and may lead to overcharging if not monitored carefully.
However, manual trickle chargers are usually more affordable and can still effectively maintain your battery's charge level when used properly. Ultimately, the choice between smart and manual trickle chargers depends on your preferences, budget, and specific battery maintenance needs.
When to Use a Trickle Charger
Trickle chargers are particularly useful for battery storage, especially when the battery's self-discharge rate is high, such as with standard Flooded Lead Acid batteries. They are recommended for long-term storage and seasonal vehicles, as they maintain the battery charge while avoiding overcharging.
By using a trickle charger, you can ensure your battery remains in optimal condition and prolong its life, making it a wise investment for any vehicle owner.
Long-term Storage
When it comes to long-term storage, using a trickle charger can help retain the battery's charge, preventing it from depleting and becoming damaged. By keeping the battery at a healthy charge level, you reduce the risk of corrosion and other issues that can arise from a completely discharged battery.
Selecting the right trickle charger for your specific battery type and storage duration is essential for effective long-term battery maintenance.
Seasonal Vehicles
A trickle charger is also an excellent choice for maintaining the batteries of seasonal vehicles, such as boats, RVs, and motorcycles. During the off-season, these vehicles are typically not used regularly, making it crucial to maintain their batteries to ensure they are ready for use when needed.
Trickle charging a battery can help maintain battery strength during winter storage and prevent damage from overcharging by consistently detecting the battery's charge level.
How to Choose the Right Trickle Charger
Selecting the right trickle charger involves considering factors such as compatibility with battery types, safety features and other features such as adjustable amperage rate. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that you choose a trickle charger that is best suited to your specific battery maintenance needs and extend the life of your battery.
Compatibility with Battery Types
The first thing to consider when choosing a trickle charger is its compatibility with your specific battery type. Using a charger that is incompatible with the battery's chemistry can lead to damage and decreased battery life.
Make sure to check the compatibility of the charger with your battery type, such as lead-acid, lithium, AGM, or other battery chemistries.
Safety Features
Safety should always be a priority when dealing with batteries, and the same applies to when using a trickle charger. Look for safety features such as reverse polarity protection, overcharge protection and temperature compensation to ensure that your battery remains safe and protected during the charging process.
By choosing a trickle charger with these features, you can have peace of mind knowing that your battery is in good hands.
Connecting and Using a Trickle Charger
Once you have chosen the right trickle charger for your battery, it's time to connect and use it. The process is relatively simple and involves adjusting the switch on the front of the charger to the appropriate voltage for the battery and perhaps selecting the type of battery depending on what charging unit you have.
After plugging the charging unit into a 110 V AC power source, you will simply need to connect the clips to the battery terminals to complete the process.
Preparing the Battery
Before connecting the trickle charger, it's essential to prepare the battery by cleaning it and verifying the voltage. Ensure the battery terminals are free of corrosion and dirt, as this can impact the charger's ability to deliver an optimal charge.
Once the battery is clean and the voltage has been verified, you're ready to connect and begin trickle charging a battery.
Connecting the Trickle Charger
To connect the trickle charger to your battery, first, attach the red clip to the positive (+) terminal of the battery, followed by the black clip to the negative (-) terminal. Make sure the connections are secure and then turn the trickle charger on..
The trickle charger will begin charging your battery, maintaining its charge level and prolonging its life.
What is trickle charging mode?
Trickle charging mode is a feature of some trickle chargers that provides a minimal voltage to a fully charged battery to maintain its charge level. This mode is particularly beneficial for charging low-powered devices with small batteries that require a low trickle current, ensuring that the battery remains in a healthy state and prolonging its life.
It is important to note that trickle charging mode should not be used for high-powered devices with large batteries, as the low current may not be sufficient to charge the battery. Additionally, trickle charging mode should not be used.
What is a float charger (battery maintainer)?
A float charger, also known as a battery maintainer, is a type of battery charger that operates at a low voltage to maintain a low charging current, reducing the risk of high-current overcharging.
Float chargers, or battery maintainers, can be left connected to the battery for extended periods without causing damage, making them a convenient option for maintaining batteries in optimal condition.
These chargers are often used in applications such as motorcycles, boats, and other vehicles that are not used regularly. They are also used to maintain batteries in storage, such as those used in emergency lighting systems.
A battery maintainer is more complex because battery maintainers have additional technological features that analyze the health of the battery continuously. Like smart chargers, they will adjust the recharge amperage, sometimes cutting off entirely, in order to optimally charge the battery.
Battery maintainers are best for batteries in vehicles that are not used very often. On the other hand, a trickle charger is best used for vehicles, such as golf carts, where there is regular use but there may be more idle times between charges.
Can you leave a trickle charger on all the time?
While it is possible to leave a trickle charger on all the time, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and monitor the charging process to prevent overcharging the battery, which could result in damage or even ignition.
Some smart trickle chargers have built-in safety features, such as automatic shut-off when the battery is fully charged, making them a safer option for long-term use.
But the more common manual trickle charger may overcharge the battery, resulting in battery damage and potentially more harmful effects if the battery experiences physical damage to its casing.
How to connect a trickle charger to a car battery?
To connect a trickle charger to a car battery, first, ensure the battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion. Then attach the red clip of the trickle charger to the positive (+) terminal of the battery, followed by the black clip to the negative (-) terminal.
Plug the charger into an electrical outlet and switch it on to begin the charging process.
Can you trickle charge RV battery while it is connected?
Yes, you can trickle charge an RV battery while it is connected, as long as you ensure the battery is not overcharged and the charger is disconnected when the battery is fully charged. It is essential to use a trickle charger specifically designed for the battery type in question and follow the manufacturer's instructions for usage.
Summary
A trickle charger is an essential tool for maintaining your car battery's health and prolonging its life, especially in long-term storage or seasonal use situations. By understanding the differences between smart and manual trickle chargers, the benefits of trickle charging, and how to choose and use a trickle charger, you can effectively keep your battery in optimal condition and avoid the frustration of a dead battery. So invest in a trickle charger today and ensure your vehicle is always ready for action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a trickle charger?
The purpose of a trickle charger is to provide a low, slow charge at a rate equal to the battery’s self-discharge such that it can be left on the battery for extended periods of time in order to maintain a full charge and prevent battery degradation.
By carefully managing the voltage level being sent to the battery, trickle chargers help protect against overcharging while still ensuring the battery is ready to go when needed.
Will a trickle charger charge a dead battery?
While a trickle charger can charge a dead battery, it is important to note that it may take several days for the battery to be fully charged due to the slow trickle current of the device.
For example, if a 100 Ah lead acid battery was discharged to the maximum 50%, then it would require 50 Ah in charge to fully charge it. If the trickle charger is sending a recharge amperage of 1 amp per hour, then it will take 50 hours to fully charge the battery.
If you need to charge dead batteries more quickly, a regular car battery charger might be a more suitable option for a completely dead battery.
How long to trickle charge a car battery?
The time required to charge a car battery with a trickle charger can range from 12 to 48 hours, depending on the capacity of the battery and the output of the charger.
The duration of the charging process is also influenced by the battery's state of charge and the amperage rate of the charger.
Will a trickle charger fully charge a battery?
Yes, a trickle charger can fully charge a battery; it just takes a much longer time than a standard charger. Trickle chargers typically use 1-3 amps to slowly add charge to the battery and prevent overcharging.
For larger batteries, charging times may be quite extended - however, with patience and the right equipment, you can ensure your battery is back to full capacity.
How to use a trickle charger?
To use a trickle charger, first prepare the battery by cleaning it and verifying the electrolyte levels. Then, connect the trickle charger to the battery by attaching the red clip to the positive terminal and the black clip to the negative terminal.
Plug the charger into an electrical outlet and switch it on to begin the charging process.
What is the difference between a trickle charger and a battery charger?
Battery chargers are designed to quickly charge a battery whereas trickle chargers are designed to maintain charge over extended periods of time by delivering a steady, low voltage charge.
As such, trickle chargers are ideal for situations where the battery won't be used in the near future.
How long can you leave a trickle charger on a battery?
You can leave a trickle charger on a battery for a few days up to a week. However, it is best to check with the manufacturer before leaving a trickle charger on the battery for extended periods of time as overcharging can damage the battery.
Therefore, it is safest to follow the manufacturer's recommendations when using a trickle charger.
A trickle charger is best used on vehicles that are used frequently but that may sit idle for a period of time between uses, such as golf carts or even boats or ATVs that are used only on weekends, for example.
Can you trickle charge a lithium battery?
Trickle charging a lithium battery is not advisable. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for charging your specific lithium battery. Because lithium batteries have a low self-discharge rate of 1-3% per month and because lithium batteries can be discharged up to 95-99% of their capacity, if you top off a lithium battery before placing it in storage then you can essentially leave the battery at rest for over 2 years before it would lose all of its charge.
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