A Heads-up on Battery Chargers

There are two stage, three stage and even four stage battery chargers available. The more stages, the more sophisticated the charger and the batteries benefit from the sophistication.

But even 2 stage chargers are light years ahead of the old chargers you are probably using now.

Non-automatic chargers can 'boil' your battery if left on after the battery is fully charged. This effect is not reversible and will break your battery permanently.

But at the same time, the voltage output of the charger needs to be related to voltage requirement of the battery i.e. battery type, sealed, set on AGM (DRY). Some battery chargers are not suited to all types, some are better suited to specific types of batteries.

But at the same time, the voltage output of the charger needs to be related to voltage requirement of the battery i.e. battery type, sealed, set on AGM (DRY). Some battery chargers are not suited to all types, some are better suited to specific types of batteries.

Automatic Chargers - switch mode style
Most have 12 or 24 volts output - 170 to 260 volt input at 47-63hz so they are suited to some of the worst generators. Able to work anywhere even with badly fluctuating voltages and mains frequencies as produced by some petrol or diesel AC generators. Charging begins immediately if the battery has been properly connected.

A sophisticated 2, 3 or 4 stage "Boost & Float" switch mode, automatic charger, suited to deep cycle lead acid and gel batteries, light weight, compact and efficient, is the preferred choice.

They need air flow around them. When selecting a charger it is worth considering not less than 10% of the battery storage (amp hours), and greater if a generator is frequently used for charging.